Leaving A Job:
How to Quit Your Job

Leaving a job - can it be done on good terms? It can - but sometimes it can be hard to figure out how to quit your job. What if you ended up not liking or being able to do the teen job - especially if its your first job ever? Be sure to review our suggestions below before you make any moves.

Before you throw in the towel
As you start to think about leaving a job, be sure to give the following careful consideration:

• Why are you leaving? Be honest with yourself. It may keep you from getting another job that does not work out. Jumping from one job to the next can be frustrating for you, your parents and your employers.
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• Make sure you are not giving up or giving in. It can be hard to adjust to a new schedule that involves a job where someone else sets your hours. It can be difficult for friends to adjust, too. And then there's school and chores and...the list goes on. Try to give yourself a month to settle in to a new routine with any new teen jobs before you decide.
• What would you do different next time? While all the thoughts about what you don't like about this job are fresh in your mind, think about what would work in your next job. For example, you may find that you don't like working every day after school, and that you'd rather work on the weekends. Make sure you have that on your list when you are looking at teen jobs the next time. (If it's scheduling that is the issue, talk to your manager first. They are often willing to work with people if it means that they get to keep a good employee.)

It is best to do this in writing so there is no confusion. A simple note with the current date along with the fact that you are giving two weeks' notice will do. Sign it and make sure that a manager or supervisor understands that you are going to be leaving on that date.

It's important not to leave on bad terms - don't walk out because you are mad at the fry cook or a fellow worker. That is not how to quit your job under good circumstances. You also do not want to speak badly of anyone even though you will no longer be working there. It's unprofessional and just a bad habit in general.

Plus, trust me, you will likely run into one of those people in the future - whether in the work world or otherwise - and things will be easier if there are no hard feelings. Be as professional and courteous leaving a job as you were on the way in.

And when it's time to find that next job, don't forget to review our tips for your teen job search and getting the best teen job for you!