So I am paranoid about colleagues reading this so I will try to be vague enough to not be recognized but inclusive enough that I can get the help I need.
I am planning on giving notice of my resignation in the next few weeks. I have only worked on this unit (PICU) for a short time. Let's say more than 6 months but less than one year. I am not quitting because my colleagues are bad or the unit is terrible. It's truly not what I expected it to be as a newer nurse. I have a new job lined up with more money and a far better schedule. I hate the thought of coming in and I have severe internal stress and anxiety about work. Part of the reason is the demeaning/punitive nature of providers but for the most part, even before this became common practice, I just didn't feel as if it was a good fit.
Obviously I cannot say this to my manager as I prepare to leave. In addition to a formal, short, professional letter...how does or how should the verbal exchange go? I am embarrassed/guilty about the short time I've been on the unit.
Keep it short and simple. No need to even mention where you are going next. No ones business but your own, and everyone knows each other in this field. I would not waste an iota of energy worrying about this. Work out your notice with a smile on your face and move on to greener pastures.
You are NOT required to give a verbal reason for your resignation. Your formal written resignation will suffice. STOP feeling guilty .. move onward and upward.
I wish I could hit the "Like" button more than once. You absolutely do not owe anyone an explanation besides the date of your last day.
The only time employers are pissed about someone quitting is when they don't give adequate notice or if they start to slack after giving notice. Don't stress, they'll appreciate honesty and as much notice as possible.
I think your employer would appreciate honesty and adequate notice. Certainly don't burn any bridges as you never know what could happen in the future. Just state that you appreciate the opportunity and experience you were given as a new nurse and that you have found something that is a better fit for you, your professional goals, etc. Good luck with your new endeavor!
I love the phrase "broken record", if they say....but we can do this....we can offer you this....etc. just think broken record, politely repeat what you have already said, like a broken record.
I hope people still know what a record is???? What I mean by broken record, it skips and replays the same part over and over. Record players have an arm with a hardened steel needle on the end, that goes on a grooved record. Sometimes the needle would skip on the record groove and repeat over and over the same line.......????? Gosh I feel old!
Specializes in Huntingtons, LTC, Ortho, Acute Care.
I have been a nurse for some time, I have also been in a few facilities. I wish to share a few nuggets of wisdom...
1) every place has its own BS or drama, just depends on what you're willing to accept or reject.
2) managers/directors only care about you when you're about to be gone, they don't want holes in the schedule!
3) it's ok to be "selfish" and chase the job you want.
4) be humble, you never know if you will end up going back.
5) new jobs will sometimes promise more than they can deliver which is why burning bridges is never smart!
what I suggest? If this verbal exchange you fear so much comes up... Blame Timing! Most facilities keep resumes and applications on file for a year, and you've been at this place less than a year... You can say you got an offer from a place you've ALWAYS wanted to be and you applied there the same time you applied at your current job. Say it's a different specialty even if it isn't. A lot of Nurses specialty jump a few times in their careers, we can't be faulted for wanting a taste of something different.
Some management are even impressed with our desires to branch out. When I left one job for another I explained that I loved my coworkers and the facilities but my heart didn't lie in _____ specialty. And I wanted to try something new out. I've never had a bad reference from a previous employer and have had several calls from one manager in particular checking to see if I was happy in my new place and if I wanted to come back!
Even if a place was complete hell, make it seem like it was the best place to be and its truly your loss you want to Try something else. LOL they love the ego stroke even though staff rarely get it í ½í¸‚
This is very helpful! The timing thing does make sense although I feel like they won't buy it for some reason. I hope I am being anxious for nothing and it will go smoothly and professionally.
KCMnurse, BSN, MSN, RN
1 Article; 283 Posts
Keep it short and simple. No need to even mention where you are going next. No ones business but your own, and everyone knows each other in this field. I would not waste an iota of energy worrying about this. Work out your notice with a smile on your face and move on to greener pastures.