Will a short job look bad on my resume?

One short job rarely matters. You can leave it out of a resume, or explain it in one line if asked.

Do I have to give the full notice period?

Yes, unless you are still on probation with a shorter notice, or your employer agrees to less.

Should I give the real reason?

A neutral sentence in the letter. If there was a real problem, raise it in the exit interview or with HR.

Home / Resignation letters / Resignation letter after a short time

Resignation letter after a short time: template and example

When you are leaving a job after a few weeks or months, for example because it is not what was described. Keep it short and neutral. Copy the letter below, replace the parts in [brackets], and send it to your manager.

Dear [Manager’s name],

Please accept this letter as my resignation from my position as [job title] at [company]. My last working day will be [date].

After careful thought I have decided that this role is not the right fit for me, and I think it is fairer to say so early. Thank you for the welcome and the time you have spent training me.

I will hand over [the tasks I have started] before I leave.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

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What to put in a resignation letter after a short time

“Not the right fit”: neutral and enough.
Thanks for the training and the welcome.
What you will hand over, even if it is little.

Notice periods depend on your contract and on the law where you work. This page is general guidance, not legal advice.

Questions about a resignation letter after a short time

Will a short job look bad on my resume?: One short job rarely matters. You can leave it out of a resume, or explain it in one line if asked.
Do I have to give the full notice period?: Yes, unless you are still on probation with a shorter notice, or your employer agrees to less.
Should I give the real reason?: A neutral sentence in the letter. If there was a real problem, raise it in the exit interview or with HR.

Other resignation letters

All 18 letters

After you resign

Last working day calculator

Count the notice period from the day you hand in the letter.

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