How to Quit a New Job if Something Better Comes Up

You have spent a lot of time and energy on your job search and you have just been successful and finally you get a job offer and accept the job. Perhaps you are about to start the new job or have been in it for a month or two but then you get a call that the dream job you’d given up on is now on offer. You’re keen to take up this dream opportunity, but you don’t want to burn any bridges—or break any contract laws.

What do you do?

A sensible place to start is to check the agreement you have already signed off on. Look at the terms of the agreement to determine whether you owe your employer any legal obligations on departure. Usually there is a minimum period of notice which must be given by the departing employee.

The risk in bailing out on a job you’ve already accepted is the potential risk to your reputation. With that in mind, you should be very sure your dream job is worth it. Really take the time to assess the information you have about both roles and both companies and think about the opportunities each presents.

How do you communicate your choice?

If you want to take the new opportunity prepare what you are going to say, how and when to your existing employer. Have professional answers prepared. Practice at home to build your confidence and ensure you have secured the dream role before you let the existing one go. If you achieved the role via a recruiter, talk to them first and get some feedback on how to handle the situation from their point of view as well.

Formalise the change through a letter of resignation. Ensure it is professionally written and clearly communicates the key points.

Finally, ensure you assist in your current role as much as possible, finishing up any outstanding work quickly and being courteous and showing gratitude where it is due.  Remember to connect with contacts via LinkedIn so you build you network and can keep in touch.

If you’ve been actively searching for a job for a long time, you have undoubtedly approached dozens, maybe hundreds, of employers. If you need career advice or assistance in finding the right job for you, reach out to our team today.