Starting a new job only to realize it's a total bust is seriously frustrating.
Maybe it's not what you signed up for, the company vibe is wrong, or something else makes you want to run for the hills. Whatever it is, deciding to quit so soon is a BIG call.
But you're alone. Over 33% of new employees quit within 90 days of starting a new job, with 32% of those surveyed quitting due to the company culture.
Whatever the reason, you're here to understand how you can navigate this difficult time, but don't worry - we've got your back.
This guide is all about figuring out if leaving your job immediately is the right move and, if so, how to do it without burning any bridges.
Because let's face it, your career is way too important to waste time in the wrong job. We'll help you ditch that bad fit and find something that actually excites you to go to work!
Understanding Why You Want To Quit a Job Posting
Before you start drafting that "I quit" email, take a step back and really figure out what's driving you crazy about this job. We need to pinpoint the real issue here, not just a passing case of the new-job jitters.
The problem is, if you don't know what's wrong with your current job, nothing is stopping you from taking up a new job and running into the exact same problem. What's more, the problem could be with you.
Perhaps progression isn't happening as fast as you thought it would, or the people are the same as your previous job, and you don't get on with them. Sure, it can be a tough pill to swallow, but doing so can help free you from this problem once and for all.
That said, it can be the company, so let's look at some common reasons:
- The Bait and Switch: Did they describe the job as one thing during the job search, and now you're doing something totally different a few weeks later? Or maybe they left out some major downsides during the interview. That's super frustrating.
- Bad Vibes: Every company has its own personality. If the way people work, interact, and treat each other makes you cringe, it won't get better.
- Life Happens: Hey, sometimes it's not about the work at all. Maybe your commute is insane, your kid needs you more, or you suddenly realize this isn't the career path for you. It's a perfectly valid reason to want to switch gears and leave a job you just started.
The quicker you can name the thing bugging you the most, the easier it'll be to decide if it's worth fixing or time to move on completely.
Analyzing the Pros and Cons of Quitting a New Job
Quitting your current position after just a short time is a serious decision that affects both you and the company. And that's important to remember - leaving a job you just started doesn't affect only you.
The company no doubt spent a lot of time and resources, including interviews, wages, screenings, and so on; bringing you on board and leaving immediately can harm them and both their and your professional reputation.
Imagine if they've taken on a new client, hired you for the job, and now you're going to leave. It's not going to make them look good, nor help the client have a good experience, so this is something you need to think about.
So, let's break down the good, the bad, and the potentially ugly before you make a move:
Pros
- Happiness Upgrade: If you're miserable every day, switching to a job better suited to you is HUGE for your mental health.
- The Right Path: Sometimes, you gotta walk away from the wrong thing to find the right thing. If this job seriously isn't on your career track, don't waste more time.
- Long-Term Wins: Think big picture! A quick exit now could lead to way more success and happiness down the road.
Cons
- Resume Red Flags: Quitting super fast can make hiring managers nervous. You'll need some good answers ready for those job interviews.
- Money Matters: Can you afford to be unemployed while you look for something new? Be realistic about your financial situation.
- Awkward Exits: You don't want to leave on bad terms, especially if this is a small industry where everyone knows each other.
It's not an easy call! Weigh the good vs. the bad carefully to figure out what makes the most sense for your career and your life.
Exploring Other Roles Within the Company
If you find that the company itself is pretty cool, but you landed in the wrong department, you may not need to leave the company entirely but instead find out where you fit better within its walls. Let's dig around before ditching the whole place!
Here's your action plan:
- The Secret Stash: A lot of companies post jobs for current employees only. Poke around on the intranet or ask HR what they've got. You might get lucky!
- Make Some Friends: Every department has its own vibe. Chat with people in other teams to see if their work sounds more like yours.
- The Human Resources Department is Your Ally: Go straight to the source! They know about ALL the open positions and what it takes to switch over to a better fit.
Switching to a different job in-house keeps you employed and shows you're committed to the company. It could be the solution you didn't even know was there!
Operation: Upgrade Your Job Offer
On the other hand, if the company is the problem and you're looking to leave, don't just dive off the deep end by handing over your two weeks' notice. Instead, you'll ideally want a new gig lined up before you give notice.
This keeps the cash flowing and lets you be pickier about your next move. The last thing you want is to jump the gun and end up in a place where you have bills to pay and no money coming in.
Here's your game plan to ensure you have a job lined up and you're ready to make the move:
- Shine Up that Resume: It's time to brag a little! Make sure your resume and LinkedIn profile show off your latest skills and achievements. Tweak them for each job you apply to so they see exactly why you're the perfect fit.
- The Job Hunt Zone: Sites like Indeed and LinkedIn Jobs are your new best friends. Search for the good stuff, and set those alerts so you never miss a hot opportunity.
- Your Network is Your Net Worth: Who do you know? Who do THEY know? Now's the time to reach out, go to events, and get the word out that you're looking. Having someone on the inside within your network vouch for you makes a big difference!
Finding the right job takes time, so don't get discouraged. Keep applying, keep networking, and that awesome next step is definitely out there.
How to Quit Without Being a Jerk
So, new job is in place andf you're ready to go. And no, as tempting as it is to go out with your guns blazing and middle fingers in the day, as tempting as that may be.
When it's time to go, you want to do it correctly. Start with a simple resignation letter that covers the basics:
- What & When: State that you're resigning and give your last day (make sure it matches your contract's notice period).
- No Drama: Keep it short and sweet. No need to trash the place here, just the facts.
- A Little Thanks: Mention something positive about your time there – this keeps things friendly.
Now, the awkward part: telling your boss in person. Yes, you have to actually talk to them!
- Schedule a Meeting: Don't just drop this news on them randomly. Ask for a few minutes of their time.
- Be Clear: Start by saying you're resigning. Then, you can briefly explain why in a way that's honest but not mean.
- Bring the Letter: Have a printed copy ready to give them after the conversation.
Leaving in a professional way makes it way more likely you'll get a good reference and keeps the door open for networking down the line.
The Art of the Smooth Exit
Again, you don't want to leave a bad taste in anyone's mouth, even if you're thrilled to be out of there. Here's how to make a classy departure:
- Exit Interview Time: Be real with them about what worked and what didn't. This can actually help them improve things, even if you won't be there to benefit.
- Don't Trash Talk: Venting feels good in the moment, but it'll come back to bite you. Focus on the positives of your time there.
- Wrap It Up: Finish your projects if possible, or leave super detailed notes for whoever takes over. Being helpful scores points!
- Say Thanks: A genuine thank you to the people you worked with goes a long way. You never know when you might cross paths again.
- Networking for the Future: Connect with your favorite co-workers on LinkedIn and stay in touch! This industry might be smaller than you think.
Leaving on a good note shows you're a professional. That reputation matters, especially when it's time to ask for references or even reconnect with those old colleagues down the road.
Okay, That Didn't Work. Now What? (The Art of Reflection)
Quitting a job can feel like a bummer, but consider it a level-up in your career journey. Here's why taking time to reflect on the experience is so important:
- Become a Pro at YOU: What did you love about that job? What drove you crazy? Understanding this is key to finding a better fit next time.
- Goal Getter: This is your chance to really focus on what your dream career looks like. More money? Cool projects? Awesome work-life balance? Get specific!
- Smarter, Not Harder: You don't want to quit another job you just started in six months, do you? So learn from this so you can make better decisions going forward.
How to Turn This Into a WIN
- Redefine Time: Think hard about what really matters in your next job and make that a top priority when you search. Is it a job title you're after or an actual career? What defines a better job for you?
- Upgrade Your Skills: Maybe you need more training or to build your network in a different industry. This break is the perfect time to do it.
- Change is Good: Careers aren't always a straight line. The more flexible you are, the more cool opportunities will come your way.
Don't think of this as a failure, but as getting one step closer to a job you actually love. Use this time to reflect, refocus, and get ready to rock that next step!
Conclusion
Quitting a new job can be tough, but it's sometimes the best move for your career! By weighing your options, looking for alternatives, leaving gracefully, and learning from the experience, you'll be back on track in no time.
Don't go it alone – mentors can be game-changers in these situations. MentorCruise has the perfect mentors to guide you, offering specific advice and the support you need to make those big career decisions.
Take your career to the next level!