Leaving a job shortly after starting can feel uncomfortable, particularly when it is your first professional role. A recent discussion on Reddit spotted this exact situation, as a young employee asked the online community for advice about resigning only three weeks after joining a company. The post rapidly gained attention as many users shared their experiences and offered practical suggestions on how to handle the awkward moment professionally.
The Situation Behind the Post
The Reddit user explained that they had been working at their first proper job for only about three weeks when a new opportunity with better pay appeared. While the offer looked like the right career move, the decision to leave quickly created a sense of guilt.
The poster wrote, “I’ve only been at a job for about 3 weeks and I’m planning to resign tomorrow because a better paying opportunity came through.” They also acknowledged that the workplace environment itself had been positive, saying colleagues were supportive and had been spending time teaching them fresh skills.
Because of that, the user said the decision felt emotionally challenging. They added that “the people there have actually been really nice and have been taking time to teach me things, so the guilt is hitting a bit.”
An Awkward Day at Work
Things became even more uncomfortable following a conversation with coworkers earlier that day. The employee required their manager’s phone number because the manager was away for the week, so they asked a colleague for it.
During the conversation, coworkers joked about the company’s salary levels. One of them even teased the poster by asking, “what, are you planning to leave?” The employee said they simply laughed it off at the time.
The situation then turned more awkward when the poster accidentally spilled water on themselves right afterward, writing that they “looked like a complete idiot.”
Later, the employee contacted their manager via Microsoft Teams asking for a short conversation. The manager responded that it was late where he was and suggested talking the next day unless it was urgent.
Now the poster must call their manager to resign, which they admitted feels stressful. They asked the Reddit community for guidance on how to handle both the conversation and returning to work the following day without overthinking everything.
Reddit Users Offer Advice
The discussion rapidly filled with responses from people who had faced similar situations. Several commenters reassured the poster that leaving a job for a better opportunity is common and nothing to feel ashamed about.
One user reminded them that career decisions often come down to personal growth, stating: “Just remember that everyone in the company would resign and seek the better opportunity once it comes, even your boss.”
Another commenter suggested keeping the conversation simple and respectful, advising:
“An unexpected opportunity came up that’s a better fit financially, so I’ve decided to take it. I really appreciate the time you and the team spent helping me get started.”
Others highlighted that professionalism and honesty are the best approach when resigning.
One user described, “The more professional and honest you are, the more respectful and kind your boss will be and you’ll feel the weight lift.”
Another commenter encouraged the poster not to feel too stressful about the timing, writing: “Do not sweat it.. 3 weeks, or 30 years , it is always a good time to resign. You take care of yourself 1st.”
Practical Tips From the Community
Several Reddit users also provided practical advice about how to handle the situation. Some suggested keeping the resignation conversation brief and direct, without unnecessary explanations.
One commenter mentioned, “Just be professional, to the point and clear on the reasoning.” They also recommended staying in touch but avoiding unnecessary details about the new employer.
Another pointed out that quitting is rarely convenient for companies anyway. As one user put it, “There is never a good time to quit. Quitting will always inconvenience the business.”
Some participants even suggested that the company might immediately replace the worker, since they had only recently been hired.
One comment described, “Better 3-weeks than 3-years. They can still call the runner up and offer them the position.”
A Reminder That Career Paths Are Personal
The Reddit discussion emphasized a common reality in modern workplaces: employees often face difficult choices between loyalty and opportunity. While leaving a job after only a few weeks may feel awkward, many commenters stressed that career decisions ultimately come down to personal growth and financial stability.
As one user commented, “Take care of yourself FIRST. Jobs take care of themselves first.”