Hello,

Anonymous

August 24,2023 at 12:04AM UTC

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Hello,

A month ago I accepted a position for a start up company. I feel in love with the idea and potential but I am a single mom. They have pushed my start date twice now and expect me to wait another month without pay. How do I professionally resign?

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AnonymousAugust 24,2023 at 12:13AM UTC
There's nothing to resign from...you haven't even started! If you're actively interviewing, keep doing that. Sounds like you don't need to take any action right now. You could keep this start-up in the wings in case you don't find anything else.
AnonymousAugust 24,2023 at 2:29AM UTC
Nice short email saying while you were really excited for the opportunity to be part of their team, you can no longer wait for an actual start date.
Thank them and wish them success.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistAugust 25,2023 at 6:19AM UTC
You haven't started working there yet but you should probably let them know you won't be.
Dear x:
Please accept this as my written notice that I am rescinding my acceptance of your offer of employment for your xxx position.
Thank you,
Anonymous
Erica NicholasAugust 25,2023 at 1:28PM UTC
I agree with these short emails declining the offer BUT I'd be sure you have another offer first. It won't hurt to wait on it if you don't have another job to get to.
Victoria NoltenAugust 25,2023 at 4:01PM UTC
Have you asked why the hold up? What fund raising round are they on? Is the role contingent upon them securing the next round of funding? Do you still want the position?
if you still want it then have a heart to heart about the reasons behind the delay. See if there is potential for the role to start as a contractor position so your wages don’t affect the value of the company for the round.
if you are just done then say thanks but no thanks and move on.
AnonymousAugust 25,2023 at 5:30PM UTC
Resign before you start? Tell them that you have bills to pay and that you need a firm date that they can commit to. Keep interviewing and move on. If you have not started you owe them nothing but a short note letting them know you are not going to take the job because of all the delays and the need to earn a living.
AyianAugust 27,2023 at 5:43PM UTC
Secure another position before you contact them. When you do contact this company, inform them of the competing offer and that you cannot afford to wait on their start date without income. Restate your interest and ask if they can give you a retainer or sign on bonus, or bump up the start date. If yes, get a contract signed to that effect. If they want to keep you, they will figure it out, otherwise it's not the place for you.
Valentina Huang, MBA, SHRM-CPAugust 30,2023 at 4:17PM UTC
You've already invested time and energy into this new position and chances are you'll have to do the same. As other commenters mentioned, secure another position before you walk away from the one you have in hand (even if it hasn't started). And if you start at the second job first, then you can professionally walk away - but please let them know. I've encountered new hires that just don't show up to work and that's just unprofessional. Good luck!