Unexpectedly need to quit job I've worked less than two months- best way to go about this?

Question

I graduated from college in May, and since June I've been working full time at a bookstore. I know, not exactly a glamorous post-college job, but it is a fantastic work environment, and in the short time I've been there I've adored it. When I was hired, it was expected that I would work long term, and I absolutely had this intention (I originally planned to work there for at least a year, and then head off to grad school).

However, in the past few days, a great job opportunity that could ultimately lead me to my dream job was basically just placed into my lap (the offer was given to me through a former professor/mentor). I wasn't even searching for another job right now, but to have this opportunity simply offered to me... I really feel like I can't let this go. The job is going to require me to move out of state in just a little over two weeks.

I've never unexpectedly left a job before, and since I really enjoy my current job and the people I work with, I just feel burdened with guilt. My questions-

a) How is the best way to approach my manager? I'm not working tomorrow, but I feel like I should come in person to speak with my manager right away tomorrow morning... this sound okay?

b) The last thing I want to do is leave them in any sort of bind- I can and will work up to two weeks if needed. But I am already quite anxious about planning a move out of state, and I'm freaked out about having to commit to working full time for the next couple weeks and then only having a few days to prepare for my move. I do not want to leave on bad terms, but if they let me go earlier than two weeks, or decided to let me go tomorrow, that would ease my mind tremendously. What's the best way to express this without coming off rude and tacky? If they truly needed me for two more weeks, I would work two weeks.

My manager has been nothing but kind to me, and has given me such amazing, positive reinforcement. I just feel so guilty for the amount of time they've spent training me... this just wasn't my intention, but I know if I turn down this job opportunity, I will truly regret it :(.

I should also mention I'm not contractually obligated to anything, and I also don't plan on putting this job on my resume.

Answer 1

Just explain the circumstances. It's not that dramatic. You can both just move on. I'm not being flippant. This happens all the time.  

Answer 2

They plan a lot of turnover at retail places so I wouldn't worry about them having a problem with it. I have no doubt you've been a great employee but in this economy they can hire two more just like you in a week.

Just tell them you have to move out of town and explain you were neither looking for nor expecting this but it fell in your lap and you feel you have to pursue it.

I wouldn't be surprised if they simply said you could leave now. I mean if it's Barnes and Noble or something they are used to turnover.

Not to say they didn't really like your work and want you to stay, but part of doing business in retail is not getting attached.

Answer 3

After reading the first 3 paragraphs, if I was your boss I would ask you why you were still sitting there and go get packing.  Just be truthful and they will tell that your honest and really want this chance. It wasn't as if you went looking for it, you were headhunted.

Go for it

Answer 4

Your best bet would be to talk with your manager face-to-face and just be up front with him/her. I wouldn't go into great detail regarding the job you plan on leaving them to work for. It is courteous to give at least two weeks if at all possible and maybe you could help train someone else to fill your position so you won't feel so bad. You seem to have a good head on your shoulders and are trying to better yourself and go for better opportunity. NOTHING wrong with that!