Need advice on leaving current job

[casnee]

First off I'm a new grad RN and I had the hardest time looking for my first job (I know my story isn't unheard of). I finally landed a job in a SNF a few months ago. They were very supportive and friendly. I even had a two month orientation (now THAT is unheard of). However, before I had applied to this SNF, I had applied to numerous hospitals. Well, one of those hospitals gave me a call a couple weeks ago and asked if I wanted to interview for their new grad program. I jumped at the opportunity and went for it. Yesterday they offered me the position and I accepted. (woohoo!).

Here comes the bad part.

So I'll admit I wasn't the most professional in the way that I told my bosses that I would be leaving at the end of the month. I had every intention to tell them in person. However, I work NOCs, live an hour away and have a hard time seeing them in person. So I tried to call them, couldn't reach them either. So I resorted to texting both my DON and ADON. Just as a heads-up kind of text, I do plan on writing them a formal letter, ASAP. I even apologized at how unprofessional it was, and gave them the reasons why I resorted to it. My DON did reply back, however. She accused me of lying saying that I had promised to stay with them long term. Now, I don't remember making any promises, and I do remember her mentioning they were looking for someone long term and I had every intention of staying for the experience. Now I just don't know where to go with this. I don't think I should bother texting her back. Should I just write the resignation letter and leave it at that? Or make another attempt at talking with them in person? Ugh, I knew it would be hard but didn't think it would be like this. Thanks in advance for all your help.

[LaughingRN]

Don't text back. You can't possibly win "that war"

I understand both sides here.

Despite the fact that you didn't promise to stay long-term, if they mentioned that was what they were looking for, and you accepted the job knowing that...Your DON probably does feel that you jumped ship at the first chance and deceived.

They gave you a more than decent orientation (from what I hear) of a SNF, and you admit as much. You spent most of your employment there costing them money.... And it probably will cloud their judgement on extending another "new-grad" the same opportunity...

however

You didn't continue (from what I read) to pursue other opportunities, it just happened, and I don't really blame you for accepting a more desirable job. I honestly would have done the same.

however

Never text a resignation. You wouldn't want to be fired that way. Think about it.

You really should have made the effort to speak in person to the DON, during the day...I work full-time nocs, and I know that it is more than possible to accomplish certain things during day hours.

however

The damage is done. Next time you speak to management, be humble (not defensive), finish up your hours quietly (if they allow you) and put this down as a learning experience. Recognize that you burned a bridge, but you did what you perceived to be the best thing for you.

And remember,

Quitting a job is always hard and stressful.

Peace

[wetzoo]

Do your best not to burn any more bridges. I know that some people might be of the opinion that they would have been angry no matter what how you gave your resignation but you just really never know. You might need them as a recommendation one day, you might want to come back, or you might need/want some PRN extra work w/them once in a while.

Give your resignation in person.

[caliotter3]

In your remaining days at work do everything to get written letters of recommendation from any other supervisors that you can. You never know what will come up down the road. These people may not be available at all or may be made inaccessible to you. As previously stated, nothing more by email. I would do the formal letter of resignation, and try to have that final conversation to clear the air, but do not be surprised if the DON is not accommodating.