Let's face it: you no longer like this job. Maybe it's your boss; he or she is unfair to you, verbally abusive or plays favorites (and you're not the favorite). It could be your coworkers; they exclude you, gossip about you, or don't pull their weight and you end up with the blame. How can this be? You certainly didn't see this coming when you accepted this position.
If you find yourself in one of the situations above, or in a very similar situation, perhaps this article will give you a place to start. Take a break, take a breather, and formulate your game plan.
You're probably thinking by now, "My state is an at-will state. I can quit right now, and I can just walk out of those front doors." While that is probably true, let's look at some reasons why this should be your last resort.
#1. Will you be able to claim unemployment benefits if you quit? In my state anyone who quits and then wants to claim UI benefits doesn't automatically get their claim honored. They are scheduled for a phone interview, and then a determination is made.
#2. What will you say in future interviews? The companies that interview you may not think you had a valid reason to quit, with or without a 2 week notice. Regardless of your situation at work, any interviewer that hears your story will wonder what the other side of the story is. Many people adhere to the philosophy "Past performance dictates future performance". In other words, if another company were to hire you, they may think that any provocation on the job, no matter how insignificant, may cause you to quit this job like you did your last job.
Convinced that quitting isn't necessarily the best course of action? Here is a sample course of action you can take to resolve your employment woes and reduce the friction you experience at your job.
#1. Keep meticulous documentation on the exact nature of the conflict, including the steps you have taken to prevent the conflict.
#2. Monitor your behavior to ensure you are not contributing to the conflict in any way. If you feel you may have added to the conflict, be quick to accept responsibility. No one likes someone who deflects blame and won't accept the consequences of their actions. Be sure to set the proper example, and remember the Golden Rule.
#3. Inquire about the procedures to resolve interpersonal conflict at your place of employment. Follow the procedures in place, and continue to keep documentation about each step you engage in.
#4. Befriend a few HR folks and ask them what they honestly think of your situation, and what to say in future interviews about why you decided to leave your position. Also you may consider seeing a psychologist and have them guide you with what to do and how to frame this situation in future interviews. You'll appreciate the opportunity to have an impartial third party hear your side of the story and provide valuable feedback.
#5. Can you get free law advice for your situation? If you continue to experience conflict, and you've taken steps to reduce the friction, it may be time to get a second opinion. Be sure to show your documentation to the person you consult. Seeking law advice will be especially helpful if, after your best efforts, you aren't able to resolve the issues and you do seek employment elsewhere. This tip will also be your backup if you do need to quit your position before securing another job, and you need to file for Unemployment Benefits.
It's tough working at a job where you're encountering conflict that hinders your ability to do your job, or simply enjoy your job. It's even tougher making a bad situation worse by prematurely quitting, affecting your ability to secure UI benefits and another job. Best of luck to you.
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