How to resign during probation... any advice?

I’m thinking about resigning immediately while still on probation. My contract says there’s a 30-day notice period, and I could lose my PTO if I don’t serve it. How should I approach this with my supervisor to keep things professional? Any tips?

Having a formal resignation letter ready is a good start. Include your last working day and keep it professional and polite.

Kumi said:
Having a formal resignation letter ready is a good start. Include your last working day and keep it professional and polite.

What should I avoid saying in the letter?

Vann said:

Kumi said:
Having a formal resignation letter ready is a good start. Include your last working day and keep it professional and polite.

What should I avoid saying in the letter?

Avoid negative or emotional language. Stick to the facts and express gratitude for the opportunity you had.

If you don’t serve the notice period, PTO is often forfeited. Check the exact wording in your contract for details.

EmmanuelBrown said:
If you don’t serve the notice period, PTO is often forfeited. Check the exact wording in your contract for details.

Is there any way to negotiate keeping my PTO if I resign immediately?

@Archer
It’s worth asking. HR might be open to discussing it, especially if you explain your reasons for leaving early.

When you meet with your supervisor, start by thanking them for the experience and then explain your decision clearly.

Tavi said:
When you meet with your supervisor, start by thanking them for the experience and then explain your decision clearly.

Should I explain why I’m resigning, or is it okay to keep it brief?

@Poe
Keeping it brief is fine. You can just say it’s for personal reasons if you don’t want to go into details.

If you’re worried about references, it’s a good idea to discuss things openly. It might help avoid any hard feelings.

Vale said:
If you’re worried about references, it’s a good idea to discuss things openly. It might help avoid any hard feelings.

How do I bring up references without sounding like I’m pushing for a favor?

@Finley
You can frame it as wanting to maintain a good relationship. Something like, ‘I hope we can part on good terms.’

At-will employment means you can leave at any time, but giving notice helps maintain goodwill and avoids burning bridges.

Eli said:
At-will employment means you can leave at any time, but giving notice helps maintain goodwill and avoids burning bridges.

Does at-will mean they can’t hold anything against me if I resign immediately?

@Peyton
Legally, yes, but it doesn’t prevent them from giving a less favorable reference if they’re unhappy about it.