So I’m 5 weeks into my 3 month probation period and as much as I really wanted to be able to stay the 3 months, the amount of stress and anxiety this job is giving me is not worth it.
I read through my contract and handbook and there is no mention of how much notice I need to give, just that my employer can terminate my contract at 1 weeks notice any time.
So I figured I should have this conversation with my manager in person so that I’d be able to ask, but am really struggling to think of how I go about saying I want to quit. I genuinely can’t stop thinking about how awkward it’s going to be.
Because my job is related to teaching, and I’m kind of responsible for a class, I’m worried I might have to give 1 month notice, or even stay the full probation until they find a replacement, I really don’t know.
Anyways, how should I approach my manager and say that I’m giving in my notice in the kindest and least awkward way?
Thank you in advance for the advice.
12 comments
If it’s 1 week for them it’s 1 week for you
If you have a weekly 1-1 you do it then, if not you tell them you need to talk and reveal it then.
If they have a replacement lined up, they’ll let you go pretty much ASAP. If not, they’ll probably try to talk you into sticking it out the next few weeks to see if things improve(ie to have enough time to find your replacement).
If there’s nothing in your contract then the statutory minimum applies, which is one week after your first month of service.
So, you’ve got me down to be here two weeks tomorrow. Wanna bet?
Best to put it in writing,
Just write a note saying that you are handing in your resignation and then confirm with your manager your notice period of 1 week.
No need to try to justify it or give an explanation.
They will probably ask you why and then just be honest. They may even adjust your role to make it less stressful if they really want to keep you.
Best of luck.
“I’ve been offered a better job, with higher pay. And I hate it here, so I’ve giving you the courtesy of a week’s notice. That’s all, bye.”
If they’re an arsehole about it, tell them to read the contract, say you’re leaving immediately, and walk out.
Always done this in writing to avoid any confusion.
If it’s only a week you will live.
Challenge them to a trial by combat
Shout, I quit over your shoulder as you flounce out of the front door.
“Can I have a word with you?”
Then when it’s a convenient time agreed upon, tell them it’s not working out for you and you are handing in your notice. Then confirm in writing.
“I’ve decided this job is not for me and am giving my notice to resign. My last day will be one week from today. Thanks for the opportunity and I hope you find someone better suited to the role.” (Last bit just to keep it civil. Never burn bridges, it’s a small world.)
If they try to convince you to stay, politely but firmly just reaffirm “I’ve made up my mind”.
After the chat, either give them a signed note with the first paragraph or send it via email.
All communication of this kind should be in writing, so you both (but especially you) have a record of it. Never trust spoken agreements at work.