Q: I was unemployed for about three months and recently landed a job.  I’ve been at this job for two weeks.  The problem is I’ve just been offered the job I REALLY wanted all along.  What’s the best way to resign from my new job?

- Sue in Topeka

Q: That’s a great problem to have, Sue!  And congratulations on landing not one, but TWO jobs!

It’s good to see you want to handle this professionally.  Some might give a simple “I quit” and leave, others would simply stop going in, and still others would do it by phone or email.  These techniques, though, have a tendency to burn bridges.  So, again, it’s good you want to handle this like a professional.

Resigning from a short-term job is similar to doing so for a long-time job – only more awkward.  Here are a few ideas to help:

Etched in stone.  Before resigning, make absolutely, positively sure your new employer can’t and won’t rescind the offer.  If the offer is taken off the table, after all, you’ll be out of your current job (they won’t take you back) as well as the newly disappeared job.

Sink your teeth.  During breaks, on lunch and even after working hours, be in touch with your boss at the “dream job.”  Fill out paperwork, talk about projects and offer to do some work from home.  This entrenches you, thereby diminishing the likelihood of the offer disappearing.

Empathize.  Companies spend time and resources during the hiring process and in training new employees.  When resigning from a job you just got, be thankful and apologetic, yet enthusiastic about the new opportunity.

Put it in writing.  Put your empathy on paper and wait a day before submitting it to your immediate boss.

Call a meeting.  This is where it can – and probably will – be awkward.  Your immediate supervisor will question your decision.  S/he may get angry.  Or, you may get an offer for a higher wage and/or instant promotion.

IN THE CARAVAN: When quitting a job you just got, make sure the new offer is a guarantee.  Also empathize with your current employer and resign both verbally and in writing.

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Check out last Friday’s post.