Juggling two potential job offers and the appropriate response/follow-up time.

Anonymous

July 24,2022 at 6:48PM UTC

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Juggling two potential job offers and the appropriate response/follow-up time.

I've been fortunate enough to be in the running for two roles at sought after companies. I have a meeting with HR tomorrow for Company 1 in which I assume this is a culture fit and potential offer, or an offer to quickly follow.

I'm waiting on Company 2 to reschedule an interview from early last week. My assumption is this will take place at some point this week and I'll hear back within 3-5 business days. The coordinator has been slower to respond though and thought I would've met with someone else last week.

I know this is all hypothetical, but what is the appropriate amount of time to respond to an offer? I know I could draw it out a few days, but many times it seems like employers want a fairly quick response (2-3 business days). If I receive an offer from Company 1, I would let Company 2 know so hopefully get them to move more quickly.

In short, I'd prefer the job at Company 2 if an offer is extended. Has anyone had a similar scenario and provide any insight here? TIA!

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AnonymousJuly 24,2022 at 10:23PM UTC
Take the offer from company 1 and continue the process with company 2. If that offer is better, take it.
Your first responsibility is to yourself.
AnonymousJuly 25,2022 at 12:55AM UTC
Thank you! This may sound ignorant, but wouldn’t it be in poor taste to accept an offer then renege?
Cyndi RosenblattJuly 25,2022 at 1:57PM UTC
It happens. Does it aggravate the hiring manager from company 1? Yes. From experience. But we all know it's not personal. It's business. And in the case of the prospective employee, it's literally their life and they need to make the best decisions for themselves.
I would suggest, if it comes down to that, you be candid with the company you're turning down. I was really excited about your opportunity, but the other position was already in play prior to my acceptance and they are closer to home/offered more flexibility/better salary, title, benefits - whatever the case. Company A may choose to counter or work generally on those things for the future if they know why aren't as competitive.
AnonymousJuly 25,2022 at 6:36PM UTC
I really appreciate your response! Makes sense and totally get the business point vs. personal. I'll definitely take your advice into consideration assuming I get either of the roles. I'm staying positive! Thank you again.
Cyndi RosenblattJuly 25,2022 at 10:58PM UTC
Best of luck. And I wanted to make sure you know that you aren't obligated in any way to tell company A more than you decided not to pursue their position after further consideration. If you had a great rapport, truly were excited about the opportunity, and company B just edged them out on benefits/salary/perks, it's not a bad idea to expand on your turn down response in the hope you'll have a future opportunity to work with that company. If you had reservations about the job but accepted to make sure you had a job, any job, I would probably not bother to spend much time on it.
AnonymousJuly 24,2022 at 11:39PM UTC
You will be given a set amount of time to accept the offer and that time frame is usually set out in your offer letter. Never assume a verbal offer is solid. So once your negotiation of terms has concluded, the agreed upon details will be captured in an offer letter with a time frame for the expiration of the offer and a start date along with compensation, benefits start date and other negotiated terms.
If you do not receive a written offer ask for one or bolt.