How do I respectfully give in my two weeks after recent work drama?
About four months ago I applied to two jobs. The first one I got immediately, a blue collar job, and the second one is a white collar job that has slowly been considering me since then.
This week the white collar job sent me a job offer, and it’s a much better role, pay, etc, so I plan to take it.
Recently at the blue collar job I was actually accused of some minor stuff, stealing little things essentially(i didn’t, but sensitive clients who probably have had it happen before!). Eitherway this lead to a recent reprimanding, an extension of my new employee probation period, and a reduction in hours/pay. I just had straight faced convos with these people, while knowing this new job is coming.
Next week i’ll need to inform them of my two weeks. How do I phrase this respectfully given how much -in their view- good faith they just extended? I’m doing my best not to burn the bridge!
Edit: Love all ya’ll suggesting a no show, but I have a company vehicle I need to return, so the logistics don’t work out there.
Also for context, it’s less whether my employer thinks i’m stealing as much as that two of the clients we have thought I was, and therefore asked to have me replaced, which made the company look bad, and has created a new series of problems for them.
Also also they know they have a retention problem and sort of pre-asked for two weeks during orientation.
Jobadvisor
Resigning Respectfully After Workplace Drama
It's understandable to feel a bit awkward about resigning right after being reprimanded, but remember that you're making a career move that's better for you. The key is to be professional, polite, and firm without going into excessive detail. Your goal is to resign gracefully and retrieve your company vehicle.
Here's a breakdown of how to approach your two weeks' notice, along with a script you can adapt:
Keep it Professional
Even though there's been recent drama, keep your resignation focused on your career progression and the new opportunity. Avoid bringing up the accusations or your reprimand. This isn't the time to air grievances or justify your departure.
Be Brief and Clear
You don't owe your current employer a lengthy explanation. A concise and polite resignation is all that's necessary. They know they have a retention problem, so your departure, while perhaps ill-timed for them, shouldn't come as a complete shock.
Offer a Smooth Transition (Where Possible)
While you've had your hours cut, offering to help with a smooth handover for your remaining time can go a long way in minimizing friction and demonstrating professionalism.
Resignation Meeting and Script
Request a brief meeting with your direct supervisor, or whoever handles resignations. In this meeting, you'll deliver your resignation.
Here's a script you can adapt:
"Hi [Supervisor's Name],
I'm writing to inform you that I'll be resigning from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], with my last day of employment being [Two Weeks from Today's Date].
This wasn't an easy decision, but I've accepted a new opportunity that aligns more closely with my long-term career goals.
I appreciate the opportunity I've had here and I'm committed to ensuring a smooth transition during my remaining time. Please let me know how I can best assist in wrapping up my responsibilities and returning the company vehicle.
Thank you,"
Key phrases and why they work:
- "I'm writing to inform you that I'll be resigning...": This is direct and clear.
- "with my last day of employment being [Two Weeks from Today's Date]": This explicitly states your last day, leaving no room for ambiguity.
- "This wasn't an easy decision, but I've accepted a new opportunity that aligns more closely with my long-term career goals.": This politely explains your departure without giving too much detail or making it about the recent issues. It frames your move as a positive career step.
- "I appreciate the opportunity I've had here...": A polite closing that shows gratitude.
- "I'm committed to ensuring a smooth transition during my remaining time. Please let me know how I can best assist in wrapping up my responsibilities and returning the company vehicle.": This is crucial. It shows you're being responsible and proactive, and directly addresses the vehicle return.
After the Meeting
- Follow up in writing: Send an email with the same information you conveyed verbally. This creates a formal record.
- Be prepared for their reaction: They might be disappointed or even try to counter-offer (though unlikely given the recent reprimand). Politely decline if they do.
- Don't badmouth them: Even after you leave, resist the urge to speak negatively about your former employer or the situation. Maintain your professionalism.
By handling this with grace and professionalism, you'll maximize your chances of leaving on good terms and avoid burning bridges, which is always a good strategy for your professional future. Good luck with your new role!