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What to say when quitting a job you just started?

149 Answers
Last Updated: 05/16/2023 at 3:05am
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Jill Kapil, PsyD

Psychologist

I have over 9 years of clinical experience, specialize in anxiety, and am passionate about my work. My approach is collaborative, empathic, supportive, and goal-oriented.

Top Rated Answers
BellatheHappyHelper
August 28th, 2020 2:35pm
I am sorry to inform you that I will be resigning. I don't feel that I am the right fit for this job position. - Just be honest, apologetic, positive, and respectful. - Offer a two week's notice, this gives them time to find a replacement - Don't explain why you are leaving because you are not obligated to tell them (but if you want to tell them you can, but it really won't make a difference) - Stay positive and calm on the outside even if you aren't on the inside - Let them know that you think leaving is the best choice for you
MalK
September 2nd, 2020 12:44pm
No one knows how a job is going to turn out until they start. You also don't know whether you'll like the working environment until you've started. Nobody goes into a job intending to quit. So, just be as honest as you can. "I hoped this would be the job for me, but..." It's an awkward conversation to have and no doubt you'll feel bad. But ultimately, it's just bad luck. So, don't beat yourself up about it. Breathe deep and say: 'I guess it wasn't meant to be...' You would have learned important lessons from the experience... You'll be one step closer to the right job for you/
ThePowerofKnight
September 12th, 2020 7:08pm
It's important to have a plan moving forward before a person quits their current job. An important question to ask oneself is: "do I have enough emergency funds to support myself until I find a new job to replace this one? It would also be helpful if a person got clear on the reasons why their current job doesn't suit them. Are the reasons for leaving, truly legitimate? Is there something that could be learned or benefited from if a person stays at their current job? Rather than rashly leaving current employment abruptly, it's important to remember that current options for employment are scarce these days due to the pandemic. Also, identifying what a person is passionate about and not passionate about, in regards to the type of job desired, would also be helpful. Perhaps writing down on paper the "pros" and "cons" of quitting a new job, over staying could also be a great tool to help a person make the best decision.
joyfulWinter24
October 14th, 2020 9:57am
You should say that you very much appreciate the effort they put into selecting you for the role but other things have come up in your life that you will need to take care of at this time. At the end of the day everyone knows these things are just business and shouldn't take them personally. Some good ideas for a polite excuse would be, I spoke with some family who are actually helping me go back to school.. or I am having a personal family emergency that I need to take care of. or I recently found that my schedule is not as free as I believed it to be. It looks like some former obligations have turned up. Thank you for your understanding.
CollegeNutrients
November 4th, 2020 12:09am
The easiest statement would be, "Dear sir/madam, Please accept this letter as my resignation. This opportunity was very fulfilling and I have learned so much during my time at as employee at this establishment, but due to personal reasons I regret to inform you that I cannot work at this time. Thank you very much for all that you have done for me and thank you for your time and consideration." To be honest, looking at examples of resignation documents is very helpful to get an idea of what to say. Also, I recommend that you already have a job waiting for you or some sort of plan once you resign from your current job as it helps reduce the stress you may go through.
Anonymous
November 11th, 2020 12:10pm
This is a tough question because leaving a job is never easy. How you are quitting a job may be dependent on the reasons you are quitting. The best way to quit any job is to give minimum notice. Make sure you tie up any loose ends at your jobs. Regardless of the reasons that you are quitting, always maintain yourself professionally. Because we are living in a smaller world due to social networking etc. You never know who may pop up in the new job from the previous jobs so always end the job on a good note even with the person who may be the reason you are quitting. Great question and timely too.
8Lotuss
November 22nd, 2020 1:46pm
well when I quit my first job, I kind of looked for a job; while I was working there. It was a great job. But, I couldn't practice any of my skills that I knew. When I quit my second job, I simply stopped going. This time I didn't search for a job. Although the job was paying could, all privileges' are given. Luxuries. but I had work stress issues. I felt I was in the wrong position. I've been in that position for eight years. Second, I wanted to finish my college degree in education. which, I did after quitting. I simply didn't go for two weeks. All, the people and coworkers advised me not to leave. I wish, I listened to them back then. After two weeks at home, I simply went and wrote a letter that I'm quitting. Stating in it I haver personal reasons that motivate me to quit. and submitted it to the administrative department. And that was it.
GagaMan
December 4th, 2020 1:18pm
That might be hard and make you feel nervous about your career future. You will find a new job. Maybe a new journey is waiting for you. You can always count on your abilities. It is better to quit sooner than never. Not liking a job and quiting right after you just got the job is not a bad thing. You can never know if you can cope with the struggles unless you experience them and one way to do that is to take a job and take it to a test. Test your own abilities, your feelings, your and others benefits in that situation and that job enviornment. It can be frustrating but finding the job that is yours and fills your soul with joy and happiness is important along the money you will earn.
Anonymous
January 3rd, 2021 10:08pm
Personally I would say something along the lines of: I think I may not be a good fit for the position and I would benefit from Seeking a position else where and you would benefit from finding someone better suited for the role. And thank everyone for the opportunity. Depending on how well the news was received I would explain myself further and answer questions the supervisor had but quitting any job at any time if difficult and people are usually very displeased to hear someone is leaving and they won’t be fully staffed. I’d also try to remember not to take anyone’s reaction personally and to remind myself that making this decision is what was best for me.
LearningMatters
January 15th, 2021 4:38pm
I apologize that I can't continue in this position. It isn't a good fit. I appreciate the time and effort. I will keep you in mind if I run across someone who is better matched to the organization's needs. I had a lot of good takeaway moments from the experience. I'm very happy to recommend your company and I'll be your best customer. I would love it if you'd keep me posted on that XZY project in development. I've been looking to expand my skillsets in that area. You did a great job representing the organization. Thanks for the opportunity!
Anonymous
January 21st, 2021 11:19pm
If you feel like quitting a job that you just started, first ask yourself why you feel like quitting. Is it that the job is not suited to you? The hours? The type of job? Your co-workers? Asking yourself such questions will really help you to understand firstly whether you are ready to quit or not and establish the cause. But, if you are adamant on quitting then that choice is yours to make and others should respect your decision. Just tell your boss or your manager that you have had enjoyed working there or with them and that you have gained some insight into something or improved some skillsets, but you wish to embark on a new journey or try something new. You could tell them that you are interested in exploring a different sector of work, for example or that a new opportunity has arisen that you can't help but pursue.
avanef
March 27th, 2021 7:53pm
I can really hear you feel some sort of guilt or have second thoughts about quitting a profession you recently started. Always put your mental health first! If the job isn’t for you, there is no shame in letting your employer know this although you sound like you have reservations. You do not need to downplay or overplay what you truly feel with your boss. Honesty is the best policy! Ask yourself if you are being forced to stay in your profession? Ask yourself if you fear about how your boss may react? You can still kindly reflect to them your gratitude for being on their team and working with everyone. Sometimes on paper we think a job suits us in terms of our skillset or will be enjoyable but sometimes these expectations are not met. As a colleague you have every right to keep them updated on how you feel about the current job. Thank you for reaching out! You are welcome to communicate with one of our listeners or therapists on our site for further support!
Anonymous
April 10th, 2021 11:42pm
You should say: “I don’t think this job is for me, I thought about it and I don’t want to do this job anymore, I think I’m going to find a new job I am interested in, Thank you for understanding.” TIP: Say it nicely! When you say it rude it will start a argument. When you talk in a nice voice it would be easier for the person your talking to understand. If you said it all sad it could be helpful but not really. I recommend to say it in a nice voice. I hope this helps! Stay awesome 7 cups family! -bruhAlanna
Anonymous
April 25th, 2021 2:30pm
"Thank you for the opportunity you have provided me. However I no longer wish to work under your management/in this company/here due to x, y, z reasons. (You do not have to keep the reasons if you don't want to) I hope you are able to find a new replacement soon and I am willing to stay until you find a new one or for the next 2 weeks, whichever comes first. Thanks again." Keep it short and sweet, and the most important part is to stand your ground! If you are truly unhappy with the place then leave. Do not let them guilt you!
Anonymous
June 25th, 2021 7:04pm
I would first thank your employer for the opportunity that they have provided you. It is important to acknowledge that they took a risk with you and that you appreciate them giving you the chances they do. Then, I would bring up why you are quitting the job. Is it because you found something else? Let them know - sometimes another job is better suited to you and your needs so people should be able to understand that. Is it the work environment that doesn’t fit your needs? That’s okay too. Not every person is the same, and everyone has an environment in which they function optimally.
compassionatecrane1476
June 27th, 2021 1:24am
Well, I'm in the same pickle. Say thank you for the offer and also apologize that you are leaving. I'll be working some more days even though I don't enjoy it, it would be bad for me to only work a few days and then leave if there was not a good reason. A good reason could be that you found a better opportunity, or you have to leave because of an issue regarding your family or yourself. It's best to leave your job if you found a better or another job that you will enjoy since it's being documented and future employees will question the reason why you left your previous job.
enchantingMist4568
July 18th, 2021 4:19pm
I know we’re not all the same and no one answer fits every situation, but this winter I quit a job after four hours that I worked really hard to get and I was just honest with them and myself It was simple and no hard feelings I thought the place would be great to work for but there lack of mask wearing and social distancing stressed me to much I know I could force myself but when being honest with myself I know it was cause emotional stress and not of benefit to myself or to the clients I would be trying to help. But instead of telling the employer how disappointing I found there action fir precautions I just complimented them on all the good they were doing in the community and that I realized I wouldn’t be a good fit at this point in time.
Anonymous
September 16th, 2021 5:49am
Just be honest! At one point or another, many of us have started a job and quickly realized that it was not right for us or received a better offer shortly after starting. Your first month at a company is meant to be a trial period for both you and your manager. If things are not working out, say that! They will respect you more for your honesty than if you were to just not show up one day. Just remember to remain respectful within your honesty and go out gracefully. Quitting can feel very awkward, but you must put yourself first.
mikacv
September 17th, 2021 6:11pm
I think this depends on the reasons why you might be quitting a new job. It is important to be transparent and respectful to your employer when letting them know you will be leaving. Firstly, I would say the general rule of thumb is that you give a 2-weeks notice to let your employer know you will no longer be of service to them in two weeks so that they are able to find a replacement if needed. I would also say that it may be nice to let your employer know why you are leaving, especially if it has to do with work conditions, ethics, or anything else specific about the job. This way the employer can receive feedback and improve the workplace for others if they choose to.
AmarahSofia
December 23rd, 2021 3:52am
Give yourself some time to decide. The beginning is always the hardest, and for sure there are adjustments needed to be done. Give yourself some time to adjust and cope up, just go with the flow and enjoy learning. Give yourself a timeline, like in the two months if you feel like this job is not for you, then quit. There is no wrong in trying, eventually you will learn things you did not know you are capable of doing. So just be patient, enjoy the journey, and appreciate the opportunity. After setting the timeline if things didn’t change the way you expected it to be, then quit. At least you tried your best to love and learn the job and that is worth of trying.
peachicus
December 24th, 2021 1:10pm
This is actually very common, many people start a new job and for various reasons do not enjoy it, or simply want do something different. Your employer won't be suprised by your decision and in fact will likely respect you for telling them because it means they can find someone else and not spend more time skilling you up. If you struggle with anxiety simply right your reason in your resignation letter and hand it to your employer. If the situation is bad you can hand that letter in then simply call in sick so you don't have to see the people at your work place.
Gnibellen
January 8th, 2022 4:16am
I think when quitting a job you just started, it’s important to be honest. Tell the employer why the current position just isn’t a good fit for you. Explain that you’re sorry to put them in this situation, but you needed to find a better fit for you personally. I think by being up front and honest, the separation will go as smooth as possible. Also be aware of any contracts or laws in place regarding employment separation. For example, in the US, most states have “at-will” employment meaning both parties can terminate employment at any time, for any reason.
HappinessIsAFirefly
January 14th, 2022 5:10am
For the most part, say the same stuff you'd say when quitting a job you worked for a long time. Things don't work out sometimes, and jobs are one of those things. Explaining to your boss the reasons for your early departure (whether that is the work environment, job-induced stress, feelings of not fitting in, etc.) is only fair so they can understand what went wrong. I quit a summer job once after working only a short while due to the ridiculously poor communication and scheduling issues, and I quit the same way I would quit any other job. You don't owe anybody anything, including your employer, and you are always welcome to quit a job at any time if that's what is right for you.
DKS2
March 20th, 2022 6:15pm
If you start the job and quickly learn that the work environment is not what you expected or is not conducive to your mental/physical health, leave (and also, props to you for being self-aware and productive enough to take action for what is best for you). If you are quitting because you found another opportunity that better suits you, leave! Do what is best for YOU always. You never have to provide too much personal information in your letter of resignation, if you feel completely detached from the company simply write a letter or email to the boss or HR establishing that this serves as your 2-weeks notice. If you feel an obligation to explain yourself more, provide a 1-2 sentence explanation saying "this job was not how it was cut out to be in the job description" or something along those vague lines!
kindLemonade
April 6th, 2022 4:53am
It's completely OK to quit something you just started. It might be a good chance to look inside to evaluate personal values and the reasons why you want to quit this job in the first place. Once you've identified and understood your own feelings, you might then know what to say to your employer/ team. Sometimes quitting early on, when you don't see it fits can save your own time and the employer's time. When talking to the employer about quitting, it might be a good idea to communicate clearly why you've made this decision in a calm manner. Thus, they know that you're doing this for good reasons, not on a whim. Sometimes, people can still stay in good connection with the employer and re-kindle the job they quit after a while. A teacher once told me that life is like going on different trains, you get on and off a train while some others stay in to reach a certain destination. We all have different journeys in life.
AngelLight99
May 22nd, 2022 6:19pm
Simply show gratitude for being a part of the firm.....write about what you have gained in the firm....talk about the terms between you and your manager.But at the end tell them it's important to switch due to some personal reasons...... otherwise on documentation don't reveal much about your plans but yes you can talk to senior if you have good terms with them .The condition is that whenever you want to leave you should have a good reason to never look back and regret.I think that would be enough.Otherwise you can also serve the notice period with prior information if it's in the terms and conditions
JujuBears
July 20th, 2022 12:43am
Its difficult to have this type of conversation, but its useful because you wont be wasting your time, nor the company time. Its always best to phrase things that make the decision, beneficial to you, as that is whats important at the end of the day. Something like, "I'm so sorry but I don't feel like this is the right role for me. I understand that I just started and I wanted to inform you before we got deeper into the role. I appreciate and thank you for all of your time and support throughout this process, and I wish you and the company the upmost success in the future!"
Davehkiin
December 27th, 2022 6:14am
If you have just started a new job and need to resign, it is important to approach the situation professionally and with tact. Here are some tips for what to say when quitting a job you just started: Let your employer know as soon as possible: If you have only just started the job, it is important to let your employer know as soon as possible that you will be leaving. This will give them time to find a replacement and minimize any disruption to their business. Be honest: If you have a specific reason for leaving, such as a better job opportunity or a change in your personal circumstances, it is important to be honest about this. However, it is not necessary to go into too much detail. Thank your employer: Even if you are leaving the job after a short period of time, it is important to thank your employer for the opportunity they gave you. This will help to maintain a positive relationship and could be helpful for your future career prospects. Offer to help with the transition: If you are able to, offer to help with the transition to a new employee. This could involve training them, completing any unfinished projects, or providing any necessary information. Keep it brief: While it is important to be professional and polite, it is also important to keep your resignation letter or conversation brief. You do not need to go into great detail about your reasons for leaving, and it is not necessary to apologize. Simply state that you have accepted a new opportunity and will be leaving your current position.
Anonymous
May 16th, 2023 3:05am
I want to thank you for giving me a chance. But, this roll is not for me, at this time. I would be interested in a different roll, if one would be opening up. Please keep me in mind. I loved the time, I was with your company, and I have no regrets, and the staff, was great to work for. But the roll (please state, what you liked and did not like about the roll) But at this time, I must step down from (state, what your role was.) It is always best to try to leave on good terms, just in case, something should happen, at the other job, or they have another role, that they need to fill. I hope this answers your question. I wish you the best of luck. Some places, like it if you gave them at least a two week notice and some, it is a 30 day notice. Also, give them the date, you plan on leaving.