i started a new job and have been there a week. i have now decided that it is really not the job for me. its too pressurised and after just 3 days of training i was put onto the phones and i didnt feel ready. (its just a call centre sales job).
i told my employers i didnt think its the right job for me and that i intend to leave but they said they would pursue me for "recruitment fees" which would range from "£2000-£4000".
are they allowed to do this?! i thought people leave jobs all the time. i cant really find anything online about it and i dont even think i signed my contract yet.
Not unless it was made clear to you when you started (and even then they may struggle as the amount seems excessive). If they have incurred costs recruiting you they will have to stand the loss.
I can understand them being rather miffed at you, after all you are going to cost them; but unless you signed up to a minimum term or something similar, I can't see them having a case.
Just a bunch of bullies, of course they can't charge you anything. They might not pay you for the three days you've been there and call it "in lieu of notice" but that's the worse that can happen.
It happens all the time; stroll out and don't look back.
You should offer to work your notice period though.
You shouldn't be expected to pay recruitment costs. However I have heard of some employers who expect people to sign a contract requiring them to pay some training course costs back if they leave within a certain period.
Did you agree anything to this effect?