- November 10, 2014
- 5:39 pm
- no comments
Guest Blog: Multiple Job Offers, Should You Hold Out? By Gregory Costanzo
Gregory Costanzo, Assistant Director of Business Career Services: Career Education
With Quinlan’s Fall 2014 Career Fair and On-Campus Recruiting season behind us, the Business Career Services team has been seeing numbers of students stressed over what to do when they receive job offers. They have these offers BUT they are still interviewing with other companies and want to see that process through to the end. Decisions need to be made and time is of the essence. It is an exciting position to be in, but one that can no doubt be nerve-wracking and cause self-doubt.
One important piece to keep in mind during this whole process is not to burn bridges with any of the employers. Even when you choose one company over the other, you want to respectfully decline the one offer because it is a small world (and even a smaller industry), so there is always a chance you come across that recruiter/organization in the future when you are looking for a new job again. They may be holding the key to the door you want to unlock—your next step professionally.
OK, so what is your gut telling you? First, rank the companies. Secondly, take a look at yourself in each role on a daily basis. You may also want to list criteria you are looking for in the position, and check off which company is able to provide what.
It is typically recommended not to simply take the initial offer, or at least do not say ‘yes’ immediately and impulsively. This is a huge decision so it is completely understandable to take some additional time to think it over and then come back to the company with your decision–which could be a ‘yes’, ‘no’, or a counter-offer stating the things that, if extended, would get you on board quickly (e.g. salary, benefits, time off, etc.).
If you really want to work for Company B, but that firm’s final interview won’t take place until after Company A’s deadline, consider contacting Company A and politely asking for more time to think about the offer, discuss it with your family, and then choose a date that will give you the time you need and ask if they would be willing to accommodate. And of course reiterate your interest in working for that employer.
For the employers that you will ultimately say ‘no’ to, you need to do so politely, expressing how much you enjoyed getting to know him/her, the staff, the company, etc., but that you have decided to accept another position that more appropriately aligns with your career aspirations.
And there is also the question, “Should I inform the offering employer that I am still going through the interview process?” This can work for or against you and can get tricky. On one hand, it makes a statement that you may be in high demand and that you are a competitive candidate looking for the right opportunity. On the flip side, it may undermine your interest and passion, or even contradict the enthusiasm you may have expressed towards working for their corporation. If they think that they are not your #1, they might pass on you and look at their other candidates.
It is all about your approach. I recommend being respectful and grateful, while expressing your genuine interest in the organization. If they really want you, it is a good chance they will give you a little extra time.