How to Quit a Job You Just Started (Guide + Examples)

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Table of contents

Is It Okay to Quit a Job You Just Started?
How to Quit a Job You Just Started
Key Takeaways
Resources to Help With Your Job Search

So you made it through the interviews, your resume and cover letter did their job and now you're getting the hang of your new role. This is the easy part… right?

But what happens when a new role doesn't click the way you expected it to? Is it okay to quit? How do you quit a job when you just started? We'll help you navigate this challenging situation.

Our guide includes:

Tips for deciding when to quit.
How to submit your notice for a job you just started.
Key takeaways to keep in mind as you move on to greener pastures.

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Is It Okay to Quit a Job You Just Started?

Your new job isn't making you happy. This can be a frustrating and even frightening position to be in. You might be doubting whether it's even okay to quit this early. Let's sort through some of the questions you might be asking yourself.

Can I quit a job I just started?

Of course, you can. No matter how awkward it may feel, it's ultimately your responsibility to make sure your career is headed in the direction that you want to go. You're in the driver's seat, so don't be afraid to drive!

Should I quit my new job?

Now this is a trickier question. Many employees report that staying at a job they disliked was one of their greatest career regrets. But does that mean you should throw in the towel? Not necessarily.

Whether or not you should quit is a question only you can answer. To help you along, here are some situations where it does and does not make sense to quit a new job.

Quit if:

You have another opportunity lined up.
You can afford to be unemployed for a while as you search for your next role.
The job description does not match what was indicated to you during the hiring process.
You feel unsafe.

Consider giving it time if:

You haven't been in the role long enough to adjust.
You haven't finished orientation.
You're feeling anxious about your new responsibilities.
You don't have a plan for what comes next after quitting.

There's nothing wrong with quitting a job just because you plain don't like it. Don't force yourself to stay somewhere that makes you unhappy. But if these unhappy feelings are coming up in the first few days of the role, you should give yourself time to get used to your new routine before jumping the gun.

If nothing else, you can use this time to make a plan of action for when you do eventually quit. See if you can learn any new skills from the role while you're at it. Then you can leave a stronger candidate!

How to Quit a Job You Just Started

Now that you've officially decided to quit, how do you do it? Do you walk right out and never return? Do you send a snarky email letting your boss know exactly what you think of the position, or set yourself away every day on Microsoft Teams and hope they get the message?

No. While it may be tempting, it's in your best interest to remain professional. Your professional courtesy is the backbone of your reputation and you'll never be able to predict how the contacts you've made in this role may come up again later.

When quitting a job you just started, you should submit a resignation letter thanking the employer for the opportunity and naming the last day that you'll be available to work. You should give the employer two weeks' notice, even if you haven't been there that long.

Sample resignation letter for a job you just started:

Dear Mr. Coleman,

I am writing to inform you that the graphic designer position has not been as good a fit for me as you and I had hoped. I am grateful for the opportunity to meet your team and learn about your processes, but I am regretfully unable to continue in this position. Please consider this letter my two-week notice. The last day that I am available to work will be December 1st, 2024.

Thank you again for the opportunity,

Marcella Abbott

Pro tip

Quitting a job you just started might feel awkward, but don't over-apologize. You're making a career decision in your best interests, which is something every worker must do. An overly poetic goodbye is both unnecessary and inappropriate under the circumstances.

Key Takeaways

Don't quit on a whim

Examine whether your desire to quit is a legitimate career move. Don't force yourself to stay somewhere you hate, but give yourself time to decide if you really do hate it, assuming that your safety is not in question.
Give a two-week's notice

Quitting a brand new job is already an awkward situation. Make it less awkward by remaining professional on your exit. Accomplish this by giving your employer appropriate notice.
Write a resignation letter

Submit your two weeks' notice with a polite and appropriate letter of resignation. Don't over-apologize or make any complaints. Simply state your intentions to quit and name your final day of work.

Resources to Help With Your Job Search

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Hailey Brophy is an experienced writer with a diverse career in digital publication. She is passionate about using her unique skills and experiences to help job seekers find the information that they need to succeed.