It’s an unfortunate reality, that after your onboarding you find the job just isn’t what you expected... So, what are your options? How do you handle this in the right way?
First and foremost, keep calm and stay professional.
Think Things Over (Again!)
Not feeling comfortable in your new work environment? Remember to give yourself some time and positive encouragement, change can be difficult and it takes time to get up to speed. It’s unlikely that you’ll operate with the same productivity as your colleagues for a while. Maybe the job will feel more suitable once you’re up to speed? Failing that, do some research and check with colleagues whether there’s a history of high turn-over in your role or in general. Take some time to observe the workplace relationships, culture and atmosphere. Remember that good colleagues will brighten your day and bad ones usually ruin it.
Give Appropriate Notice
Always try to give your employer the required notice period before your departure. It’s really not acceptable to resign without doing so as it puts even more pressure on the company to find a substitute in the immediate term, which won’t do your reputation any favors.
Be Frank About the Reasons
Although you might not prefer to bring even more attention to yourself when quitting, you should still tell your management or HR the reasons for your resignation. For example, that the role wasn’t what you had expected for reasons A, B and C. It’s important that you stick to the facts and where possible provide constructive feedback. It’s likely your employer will be disappointed having invested time and resources in hiring you, however they’ll be keen to understand how they can avoid a similar situation in the future.
Make Sure You Quit Officially
Don’t be shy to raise this up directly with your boss. It’s much better to deliver the message in person with a written resignation letter ready to present. Writing the letter itself doesn’t take you much time and avoids any possibility of misinterpretation in the future.
Remember Your Team
Be considerate to your team! They probably looked forward to your arrival and had their own set of expectations. This consideration should extend to HR as well, who likely put in time and effort onboarding you. Remember to remain polite and professional, you still want to leave a good impression.
Handover Carefully
Think carefully about farewells, you haven’t been there long and they’ll be a level of sensitivity amongst your team and management. Just ensure that you provide detailed and cooperative handover instructions when leaving, this could be the last impression you leave with your colleagues, so you want to leave with your good reputation in tact!