Instant regret? Yes, we have heard about it a lot. That is the feeling when you decide to quit a job you just started. Your mind is full of hesitation, and you constantly question your choice. The devil and the angel on two shoulders compete. However, if the devil wins, all you have left to do is to find out how to quit a job you just started.
You will undoubtedly have a bunch of “what if” questions in mind. What if you can’t find a job quickly and will have to turn to your savings. What if you leave and cause significant issues for the company. The list is endless, but keep going; life is short to stay at a job you hate.
No matter what you decide, at the end of the day, remember to stay professional and respectful in your quitting manners at the end of the day. Of course, you wish you didn’t accept the offer. However, it is already too late to find ways to turn down a job offer professionally.
Leaving all judgment aside, we have a checklist for you to be prepared. As you have made this decision, it means you have thoroughly weight out all perks and downsides. So, here you go.
Prioritize job hunting
First of all, you are putting yourself at significant risk of quitting a job. Therefore, consider hunting for a job and assuring yourself financially ahead of time. Otherwise, you will have to turn to your savings account. Staying unemployed might be difficult, and you had a better look for a job while still employed. Apply for jobs and go to interviews. For example, you might be invited to a panel interview, get prepared well for the group interview. Here comes the most triggering question: why do you want to change jobs? It sounds tricky, but you should stay professional. Avoid saying anything negative about your current company, as it might be discouraging for a recruiter to move on with your candidacy. Instead, try staying to state your reasons and keep it courteous objectively.
Write your resignation letter.
Whenever you decide to quit a job, you need to submit a resignation letter. A positive tone of voice and professional approach apply here as well. Write the resignation letter in a standard business format. However, remember to talk to your manager directly. It is a common practice and will help you stay professional. It is a sign of respect, and you should better stick to it.
Check out what the company regulations are for submitting resignation letters. Include your contact information, last day of your employment, and reasons for resignation. For more details, check out our article on how to write resignation letters with valuable examples.
However, you should avoid expressing negative ideas in your resignation letter. Instead, make sure you keep your network and stay professional—express gratitude for the opportunities provided and state that you regret leaving the company.
Do not explain why you are leaving.
It is not an obligation to explain why you are quitting. You could have received a better offer, or you might have personal reasons for leaving the job. Whichever case you are in, don’t feel obliged to dig deep into details.
You might choose to state that you have personal reasons. By the way, people are mainly quitting jobs for personal reasons. However, if you stay on good terms and do not overshare, it will be easier. Feel free to discuss the reasons for your resignation if you find it relevant. Otherwise, you are not prompted to disclose any personal matter.
Update your Colleagues
The chances are high that your colleagues have already started relying on you. Therefore, make sure that you let them know that you are leaving. Consult with your manager to understand how it is the best way to talk about it. It is polite and professional to inform the person who is taking over your job. Therefore, you will make sure the transition of responsibilities runs smoothly.
You should also make sure if there is any training required to perform the tasks, you will hand it over.
Be ready for an exit interview
It is a common practice to conduct exit interviews. It is beneficial for the company to know the underlying reasons for your resignation. In addition, exit interviews help recruiters understand employer issues and therefore improve in the future.
Exit interviews are also vital for you, as you have a chance to share your feedback. Stay calm and professional, again. You may want to prepare your input beforehand to avoid any emotional breakdowns.
When crafting your feedback, consider addressing such aspects as benefits, pitfalls, environment and management styles.
Keep moving on
Life goes on; try not to feel bad about the situation. In some cases, you take up a job and accept an offer that turns out to be the wrong one. Regardless of your decision, keep moving on and stay positive.
