How to quit a job you just started (+ fill-in-the-blanks resignation letter template)

Not all new jobs start on a good note, and if this has happened to you, quitting a job you just started may be the only answer.

In this post, I’ll map out a step by step guide on how to quit a job you just started, and things to consider if you’re still on the fence.

My Easy 10 Step Guide to Quitting a Job You Just Started

If you have decided that you need to quit a job you just started, it’s vital that you handle the process with care. Here’s how:

Step 1: Identify The Minimum Notice Period Required

Even if you are consciously job hopping and about to quit a job you just started, it’s important to acknowledge the notice period. While you might not be legally required to do it, most at-will workers will give a two-week notice. It is good practice that allows you to leave on good terms.

In some cases, you may only want to give a one-week notice period. Alternatively, committing to a one-month notice or until the end of a busy period can be deemed a better option in some cases too. You have to do what is right for you – especially if you wish to avoid issues with getting paid at the end of the current employment period.

Step 2: Plan What You Are Going to Say and Write a Resignation Letter

Draft a professional resignation letter that succinctly states your intention to leave, your last working day, and a brief note of appreciation for the opportunities you have had. Keep the tone positive and professional, avoiding any negative comments about the company or your colleagues. You can use this template:

Dear [Your Manager/Boss],

I am writing to formally resign from my position at [Company’s Name], effective [Last Working Day, typically two weeks from the date of the letter].

I have greatly appreciated the opportunities for growth and development that I have had while working at [Company’s Name]. I am grateful for the support, guidance, and collaboration provided by you and my colleagues throughout my tenure.

I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will do everything I can to complete my responsibilities and assist in training my replacement during this notice period. Please let me know if there are specific tasks or projects you would like me to prioritize before my departure.

Thank you once again for the valuable experiences and support I have received during my time at [Company’s Name]. I look forward to staying in touch and wish the company continued success.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Job Title]

Step 3: Review the Employee Handbook

Thoroughly review your employee handbook to understand your benefits and entitlements. This includes details about your final paycheck, unused vacation days, healthcare coverage, and any other benefits you may be entitled to upon leaving.

Understanding these details can help ensure you receive everything you are to and ensures a smooth departure.

Step 4: Always Tell Your Boss About Your Intention to Leave First

Once you’ve made your decision, do this promptly because you’ll look unprofessional if your boss hears about your intention to leave from others first.

Arrange a private meeting to discuss your resignation, providing your resignation letter during this meeting. This allows your boss to prepare for your departure and manage the transition smoothly.

Step 5: Remain Calm Throughout Your Notice Period

Maintaining professionalism is essential during your resignation process. Remain calm and avoid making negative comments about colleagues, team leaders, or the company. This helps preserve your professional reputation and leaves the door open for future opportunities or references from your current employer.

Step 6: Refrain From Declaring the Reasons for Quitting

You are not required to disclose the reasons for your resignation. If you prefer to keep this information private, you can simply state that you have decided to move on. If you choose to share your reasons, be diplomatic and constructive, especially if you are using other job offers to negotiate better terms with your current employer.

Step 7: Schedule an Exit if Required

An exit interview is a standard part of the offboarding process for many companies. Be prepared to participate in this interview if requested. Use this opportunity to provide constructive feedback about your experience with the company while remaining professional and respectful.

Step 8: Let Colleagues Know That You Are Leaving

Inform your colleagues that you are leaving to prevent rumors and gossip. A polite email or a brief conversation can suffice. This ensures your departure is handled gracefully and helps maintain positive relationships with your coworkers.

Step 9: Stay Professional During Your Notice Period

If you are required to work a notice period, continue to perform your duties diligently. Stay professional, meet deadlines, and help train your replacement if necessary. This demonstrates your commitment and professionalism, leaving a positive final impression.

Also, avoid the temptation to mention the great things you will do in your next job. Focus on leaving on good terms with your current employer and colleagues. This helps maintain positive relationships and ensures your departure is viewed professionally.

Step 10: Leave Without Disruption on Your Last Day

Before your final day, clean out your desk and organize your belongings. Ensure you leave your workspace tidy and return any company property. This shows respect for your employer and ensures a smooth transition for whoever takes over your role.

If you are working remotely, ensure all digital files are organized and accessible. Return any company equipment, such as laptops or peripherals, through the appropriate channels. Clear out your email and other communication tools, leaving out-of-office messages where necessary. This helps maintain professionalism and facilitates a seamless transition for your successor.

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What To Do After You Quit

Quitting a job you just started can be stressful, and it’s essential you take some downtime before making your next move. Here are five things to consider:

• Invest in your physical and mental wellness. This is a stressful time, but self-care will serve you well throughout this period of transition.
• Think deeply about the career you want to have. Job hopping is stressful, and it’s always worth investing the effort into figuring out your dream job so that you can have a strong and stable career.
  • I have a course on Finding Your Dream Job which will show you how. Your job is a significant chunk of your life. So why not make it worth every second?
• Utilize your connections and professional network to learn about possible opportunities that may be available.
• Review the current job and consider whether you could have spotted red flags before accepting it. This move can help you avoid a repeat situation.

Last but not least, remember to reassure yourself that you analyzed the situation to confirm that this is the best solution for you. The ability to take your next steps without hesitation or regret will make a world of difference.

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Valid Reasons To Quit Your New Job

Still on the fence about quitting? Here are some valid reasons why you should leave your job:

Signs Of A Toxic Work Environment

The most common reason for wanting to quit a new job is that the company culture isn’t a good fit. The signs of a toxic working environment are primarily linked to team dynamics or poor management. A high staff turnover rate or examples of other new employees quitting shortly after taking the job are also telling symptoms of a place that you’ll want to leave.

The genuine company culture isn’t something you can judge until you experience it as an employee. But if it is toxic, you’ll want to plan a quick escape.

The Job Isn’t What Was Advertised

When you accept a job, the decision is made based on the job description provided by your employer. If you have found that your responsibilities or work hours are noticeably different from what was advertised, it is a valid reason to quit the job. Or at the very least, it should be an incentive to discuss the situation with your boss. Otherwise, you will be left feeling underpaid and undervalued.

Furthermore, the sense of dishonesty will inevitably reduce your level of trust in the company and your boss.

Your Life Has Suddenly Changed

A good job is an important ingredient in the recipe for a happy life, but there are more important things too. For starters, your health comes first. If changes to your physical or mental wellness dictate that you need to resign, you should have no guilt about quitting. However, it is usually worth speaking to your HR department to see if they can accommodate your new circumstances.

Relocation or changing family dynamics, such as going through a divorce when you have kids, could force you to resign too.

Work Burnout

When a job leaves you feeling unable to carry on within weeks of starting it, this is a clear indication that it isn’t the right fit for you. If you have identified the signs of work burnout, it may be necessary to quit before it takes a toll on your life. While finding a job isn’t the only potential solution to this problem, it is a very valid reason for wanting to quit a job you just started.

Ignoring the issue won’t only impact your life. It will inevitably have an indirect impact on your loved ones too.

You Have Found A Better Opportunity

If you have been offered a better job, it may feel a little unprofessional or ungrateful to take it so soon after starting your current role. In reality, your employer would have no hesitation in replacing you if they felt it were necessary. They have their best interests in mind, and you should have no concerns about doing what is right for you. If you’ve only just started, it’s easier for them to find a replacement compared to if you’ve been around for a few months.

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Benefits Of Quitting A New Job Early

Nobody wants to quit a new job prematurely, but there are several potential benefits to quick quitting. Here are six that could influence your decision;

• Quitting the wrong job may allow you to find your dream job and get your career back on track in the fastest possible time.
• Quick quitting a job may allow you to finally start your own side hustle while looking for your new job.
• If you quit a job within the first few weeks, you can omit it from your resume without causing a noticeable gap in employment.
• Leaving the job sooner may protect your mental health and quality of life – almost 15% of workers develop mental health disorders in the workplace.
• When you resign from a role early, you won’t be influenced by coworkers. It means you can make the right decision for you.
• Quitting the job early allows you to draw a line under this unfortunate situation far sooner without long-term damage to your career or lifestyle.

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Things To Consider Before Quitting

Consider the following before quitting your job:

Can You Work Something Out?

Before you quit a job, you should consider whether the problems can be solved in another way. If you are unhappy about the increased responsibilities, for example, you could use this as leverage as you look to negotiate a better salary. This would overcome the need to look for a better-paid role and remove the feelings of being underpaid.

Similarly, if the schedule or work setup isn’t working out, it may be possible to adjust the situation. Working from home or changing your contracted hours are just two possible solutions. However, your employer won’t look to implement changes unless you make them aware of your displeasure.

Can You Find A New Job Quickly?

When quitting a job, timing is everything. The harsh reality is that job markets are fluid and you may well end up spending a long time looking for your new job. So, you may want to hold back on handing in your resignation until you are confident that a better job can be found. The last thing you want to do is lose your source of income, especially in the current cost of living crisis.

For most people, then, proactively looking to secure yours before quitting is the better option.

Frequently Asked Questions on Quitting a New Job

Here are answers to some FAQs about quitting a new job:

How Soon Is Too Soon To Quit A Job?

It can take several weeks to become truly settled in your new job, which is why you should try to find an alternative solution if possible. Remaining in the role for at least one year also shows you can complete the onboarding process and impress an employer. If the job really isn’t for you, though, it’s never too early to resign.

Is It Legally Allowed To Quit My Job In The First Week?

Technically, nobody can force you to turn up to work. Contrary to popular belief, no state or federal laws state you must provide two weeks’ notice either. If deemed necessary, you can legally quit within the first week of employment.

So, consider all the ramifications of your decision and do what’s best for your mental well being and for your career.