30 People Reveal Wild Reasons For Quitting On Their First Day
New hires who hit the exit faster than the entrance.
Ah, the dreaded first day of work – a rollercoaster of emotions ranging from excitement to sheer terror. We’ve all been there, hoping for the best but secretly fearing the worst.
But what happens when the reality of a new job smacks you in the face like a wet fish? Well, you get some epic tales of people saying, “Nope, not for me!” and making a swift exit before even finishing their morning coffee.
Picture this: a bright-eyed, bushy-tailed employee struts into the office, ready to conquer the world. They’re greeted with smiles, handshakes, and promises of exciting challenges ahead. But as the day unfolds, it becomes abundantly clear that this isn’t the dream job they envisioned.
Take my friend Dave, for example. On his first day at a new job, he was tasked with alphabetizing a mountain of files taller than Mount Everest. As if that wasn’t enough, Dave’s supervisor constantly hovered over him, sporting a scowl deeper than the Mariana trench.
The files were a chaotic mess, and Dave spent the entire day playing a real-life game of “Where’s Waldo” with those pesky documents. The final nail in the coffin? The insufferable supervisor barking orders (or spraying them rather) like a drill sergeant the entire time.
Needless to say, after a long day of verbal abuse and being drenched in foreign bodily fluids, Dave didn’t return for day two.
But hey, Dave’s not the only one with a disastrous debut. Reddit is bursting at the seams with tales of first-day fiascos that’ll make you snort your coffee out your nose.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 30 times employees decided to say “heck no” before the ink on their employment contract had even dried. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this.
1. Anyone would honestly do the same
Stop and Shop when I was younger. Applied for a stock position, sat down for an interview and got accepted for a stock position. Showed up a couple days later for my first day and they told me they did not need anyone for stocking and I had to work in the deli. Not just that day, that was going to be my permanent job. I explained that wasn't what happened in the interview or on the application, they came back with a nice version of take it or leave it. Figured I give it a shot, went over to the deli department and someone there gave me a two minute explanation of the cutting machine. Then it was straight to working with a couple other employees during a heavy rush. This specific store gets busy. Walked out for lunch and never came back.
BottleNcanClapUrHand2. Who needs a partner when you can do twice the work for half the pay? Oh wait, everybody does.
Got a job doing deliveries of very heavy products that was supposed to be a two man job. Showed up to find out the other guy was just training me and I was on my own. Not worth destroying my back for $10 an hour
RealKennyThe Psychological Impact of Workplace Environment
Research indicates that the workplace environment can significantly influence employee retention and satisfaction. According to Dr. Madeline Levine, a child psychologist and author, "A positive work environment is essential for fostering employee well-being and productivity." Factors such as organizational culture and management style can create a sense of belonging or alienation. When new hires feel undervalued or unsupported, their likelihood of quitting increases dramatically. As Daniel Pink, a business author and speaker, states, "The most successful people are those who are motivated by a sense of purpose." This highlights the importance of establishing an inclusive and supportive environment from day one.
3. A caregiver catastrophe
Just did this the other day actually. I'm a care aide, or nurses aide depending on where you're from, and I was hired privately. I went in for orientation and left after 4 hours. They wanted to lift and carry the person who couldn't weightbear, no gloves, leave them alone while not steady and some other stuff. Noped out and reported to appropriate places.
Notashiela
4. When honesty takes a backseat to sales, it's time to filter out the nonsense and make a quick exit.
astrangeone88
Furthermore, the phenomenon of 'job crafting'—where employees modify their roles to better fit their skills and interests—has been shown to enhance job satisfaction. Research from Harvard Business School suggests that when individuals can align their roles with personal strengths, they are more likely to stay engaged and committed.
Thus, organizations should consider implementing onboarding programs that encourage new employees to explore their strengths and interests early on.
5. Expecting an audio tech gig only to end up as a human forklift at a concert. Talk about a bait-and-switch.
anon
6. No water, scorching heat, and feeling expendable? Nope, this teen didn't stick around to roast in the summer sun.
I was working minimum wage at 16 directing car traffic and parking at the local fair grounds. It was hot and I was told in the same sentence that I was both not allowed to carry a bottle of water and all of us kids were expendable. So I walked off.
anon
Understanding the Reasons Behind Quick Departures
Psychologically, quick departures often indicate a mismatch between the employee’s expectations and the reality of the job. According to Mastin Kipp, a life coach, "When individuals step into a role that doesn't align with their values or expectations, it can lead to immediate disillusionment." This emphasizes the necessity of honest communication during the hiring process to set realistic expectations, which can significantly reduce turnover rates.
7. Doing nothing may sound relaxing, but it’s not exactly a recipe for job satisfaction.
My girlfriend did this just this week.Had gotten a job at an office where there was maybe 5 minutes work an hour, but due to the nature of the work bags had to be left at the door, phones weren't allowed, and the computers had no internet access.She was apparently told "you get used to doing nothing".After a full day of being around people who just stared into space for 7.5 hours a day she refused to go back.
Nephrited
8. Witnessing harassment on day one? Absolutely unacceptable.
Owner was too busy playing grab a*s with a waitress, in full view of me, as I was waiting for him to discuss managing his restaurant. He hired me the day before as GM. I witnessed this behavior for at least 20 minutes. When he came into the office, I shook his hand and thanked him for the opportunity then said I had a change of heart and left to sound of him giving me s**t for "quitting".
GeckoFlameThrower
Moreover, interpersonal dynamics play a crucial role in employee retention. According to research from the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, positive relationships with colleagues can enhance job satisfaction and decrease the likelihood of quitting.
Employers should focus on fostering a collaborative atmosphere that encourages social connections among team members, especially for new hires who may feel isolated.
9. Only thing worse than almost being maimed by a co-worker on your first day is finding out it’s ‘expected.’
I was working in the woods cutting timber and making good money. I could pocket $200 in half a day's work. I was waiting to get into the Boilermakers apprenticeship program, so I just needed spending money. My dad was convinced I needed to be working a 40 hr/week job for someone else, so got me a job at his friends sawmill. He thought I liked working with wood,or something. It paid $5.15/hr. I went along with it to make my dad happy. A couple hours into the first day, some jerkoff tried to hurt me on purpose. I had been warned he would do it. I walked the f**k out of there and completely changed my outlook on advice from my father.
CoolioDaggett
10. Heavy lifting turned into a heavy load of regret for this liquor warehouse worker. Not worth the backache
I worked at a liquor distribution warehouse for one shift. I was a lot smaller than the guys working there, but I was new and they had to put me through the ringer or whatever and stood around a lot while I lifted heavy cases of liquor for hours. The supervisor kept coming back with lists near the end of the shift saying “last one”. This happened like 7 times and my 8 hour shift slowly became a 12.5 hour shift. By the end I could barely move and the big guys had to take over for me. During the day I ran over my foot with a skid of Hennessy and on my very slow walk home I threw up on the sidewalk. Never went back. Made $130 though.
shadowokker
Practical Solutions to Improve Retention
To mitigate early exits, organizations can adopt structured onboarding processes that involve mentorship programs. According to Dr. Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist, "Mentorship not only enhances job satisfaction but also fosters a sense of belonging and commitment among new employees." Additionally, providing clear feedback and opportunities for development during the onboarding phase can help new hires feel valued and engaged. As Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher, notes, "When employees feel appreciated and see a path for growth, they are more likely to remain motivated and committed to their roles."
11. This bartender's first day was truly one for the books
In college I was working as a radio personality and ended up with occasional side- gigs as a result. One of the side- gigs was a commercial for a local bar, where I was playing the bartender. They offered me a few nights a week bartending, I guess to add authenticity to the commercial. I DEFINITELY could have used the extra money at the time, so I accepted. My first day was one of the worst working days of my life. Not only did I receive absolutely no training, but the entire rest of the staff/ owner left upon my arrival. I had never made a drink professionally in my life, and I was literally alone for the entire shift, where we were absolutely packed. It took me until nearly 5AM to finish closing the bar, as I didn’t know how anything was supposed to look. The bar was in the next town over from my school, and there was a snowstorm that night. I totaled my car on the way home, which caused me to miss my 8:00AM class. I called the owners as soon as I was able and quit, never to return again.
when-cats-attack
12. You know it’s bad when you’re called in on your day off to find chaos in the kitchen and a manager breathing down your neck. No thanks!
This happened about 5 years ago during my senior year in high school. I used to work at restuarant washing dishes. This one saturday(my day off) they called me in for an afternoon shift because the pm dishwasher called off. So i go in around 4:30 pm and to my horror i walk in to the kitchen and see that everything is dirty. Almost nothing is clean idk how thats possible. I ask the owner and he says that the am dishwasher also called off. They decided they didnt need anyone till pm. I start trying to catch up and the manager comes in and starts yelling me to hurry up and asking me why theres so many dirty dishes, pots and pans. I try to explain but he keeps yelling so ignore him. Not even 30 minutes later he comes back and starts ranting again. After that i just walk out.
WhalePeople
Finally, understanding the psychological concept of 'fit' is crucial. Research shows that when employees perceive a strong alignment between their values and the organization's culture, they are more likely to stay long-term.
Employers should regularly assess cultural fit during the hiring process and ensure that onboarding reflects these values to minimize early departures.
13. Sometimes, it’s best to bow out gracefully than stick around for future chaos.
Second day was left to run place with 16 year old employee. Other assistant manager no showed when my shift should have been over. Had an event I needed to be at and store manager didn’t seem to care too much. Needless to say ended up there extra hours because I didn’t want to bail on 16 year old employee and was late to event.Manager called when I never went back and I said if it is that screwed up on day two it wasn’t worth it for me.
WhoDis2122
14. Why would anyone sign away an entire year of their lives?
I was going to work for a forest service company just managing and creating trails. Found out after orientation they pay once a month. I could handle that but I wasn’t fond of the 1 year contract they wanted me to sign saying I wouldn’t look for other work and if I left before my year was up I was to repay a percentage of my earned wages. I got an $8 check for 5 hours of training.
kenbisbee
While every job has its ups and downs, some ‘downs’ are not worth sticking around for—but hey, at least they make for some entertaining anecdotes, right?
Remember, if your gut tells you something’s off, it’s okay to walk away. After all, life’s too short to spend it in a workplace that doesn’t appreciate you. Cheers to finding the perfect fit, and may your future job endeavors be drama-free and fulfilling!
Have a first-day horror story of your own? We’d love to hear about it in the comments.
15. High colleagues and a drive-thru disaster? It’s a McTastrophe.
Was at a McDonalds night shift. Got no training, the other four people there including the manager was high as a kite, and they all smoked in the managers office, while leaving all the work to me. They yelled at me when I had no idea how to operate the silly little drive through machine when a customer came through with a large order. Decided that wasn't a good place for me to stay ;P
AstralLamia
16. This employee made the call to hang up on this sketchy agreement.
Took a job selling cellphone covers at the mall. I didn't find out till my first day that I only got paid when I made a sale. I promptly quit and took a seasonal job with the mall's JC Penny's.
CrotchWolf
17. Some jobs just aren’t worth the headache.
stoter1
18. “Trying to upsell unnecessary repairs? Sorry, but that’s not how I roll.”
I've said this on Reddit before but I am an auto mechanic and I left a shop within half a day before when they wanted me to sell shocks and struts to a customer who only needed wheel alignment.
gearhead488
19. When you witness management mistreating their employees, it’s a major red flag.
Took a job as night auditor at a hotel. As I was being trained by a 30-something guy I was supposed to replace for the weekend shifts, he told me that because of being understaffed, the manager had made it impossible for him to take his one week of paid vacation the previous year before he hit the “use it or lose it” time.If the management was going to f**k over this guy who had just lost his wife and had two young kids with the one little benefit they bothered to offer, they would f**k me over too. I told him he deserved better and walked out.
LogisticalNightmare
20. At least there’s a silver lining in the form of a sweet compliment
I walked out of domino's after 3 days because nobody washed their hands and the stress of making 20 pizzas in 10 minutes sucked. I also realized I couldn't hear well answering phonesOn the positive side I was really patient with this nice old man over the phone and he came into the store to compliment me by name. Thank you old man wherever you are
gnzake77
21. When ignorance meets insensitivity, it’s time to pull the plug.
comemyselecta
22. No thanks, this dietitian deserved better than a temporary fix.
anon
23. When the job comes with a side of inappropriate comments, it’s time to scrub outta there.
I walked out halfway through my first day. The job was nothing special, just going to be washing dishes on weekends while in high school. The guy who was supposed to be training me was a real jerk, made comments about my breasts getting in the way, so I left him with all the work. Who in the hell thinks to make stupid comments like that. Still makes me mad. Edit: sorry about language
CanadianGirlsRule
24. Working double the hours for half the pay? Absolutely not.
I had no specific job, I was pretty much doing everything (dishes, making food, cleaning) which wasn’t really a problem, but the boss told me I could work for 8 hours and only get paid for 4. I walked out without saying anything
PoorKidSporeKid
25. Yeah, that’s a hard pass.
Was very clear about my schedule. Needed to work days because I went to school at night. The first shift I was scheduled for was 8PM-8AM. I quit on the spot. If an employer is going to f**k with you that early on, its not worth giving them a chance.
anon
26. When you get demoted before even starting the job, you know it’s time to hit the road
I was hired at a shoe store to take over when the current manager left, which was in 2 weeks. The day is started, the district manager came in to talk to me. He said I was "too young" and he wouldn't even consider hiring me as manager, but I could stay as a minimum wage sales person. I had left a good job as manager of a sprint store for this, and only left because I was hired to be the store manager. I told him that wasn't okay, I was hired as the manager, and if he wouldn't consider me then I was going to look elsewhere. He said "this is what mean. That immature attitude of 'if I'm not getting my way I quit' is why I won't consider someone so young." And called me childish for leaving.
TooLazyToBeClever
27. When your coworker’s idea of workplace banter involves death threats, it’s probably time to call it quits.
Because a guy said he was going to slit my throat. It was my second job. A newsagents in 1997. I believed him so I f****d off sharpish.The guy has been in jail repeatedly for stabbings over the years since.
anon
28. years later, no regrets!
I had qualified to be a high school teacher, but as the summer wore on, I had not found employment. I accepted a job at a camera shop, and just before my first day began, a local principal called me and said he desperately needed my qualifications to teach two different subjects and if I showed up for a 10 A.M. interview and passed it, I would have a job. I went to the camera shop and apologized saying I had found a teaching job and would not be able to work at the shop. They were disappointed but they understood and I ended up at that school for thirty years.
Oregonguy1954
29. Sounds like a nightmare, not a job.
anon
30. This call center call-out was long overdue.
It was a call center job; their policies from dress code to attendance to when you could talk to other people or go to the rest room was too strict for the work involved.
anon
Psychological Analysis
The quick exits many employees experience can often be traced back to unmet expectations and a lack of support. This highlights the importance of setting clear expectations during the hiring process and providing adequate support throughout the onboarding phase.
By nurturing a positive workplace culture, organizations can significantly reduce turnover and create a more engaged workforce.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
In conclusion, addressing the psychological factors that contribute to early employee departures can significantly enhance retention rates. Creating a supportive and communicative environment, alongside structured onboarding processes, fosters a sense of belonging and commitment among new hires.
Employers who prioritize these aspects not only improve retention but also cultivate a healthier workplace culture overall.
