I had a final interview yesterday and the company asked if they could check references. While it's sounds promising, their hiring process is still a few weeks out before the committee meets to make a final decision.

17 Comments

1. AnonymousApril 25,2025 at 3:03PM UTC

   Congrats on getting to the interview portions of possible offers! It sounds like you have 2 opportunities here. Which one, if offered, would offer you what you seek? Better life/work balance? Better salary/benefits? Better environments that you would enjoy the culture, co-workers and the work? What does your gut tell you? Until you have an offer in hand, imagine working at either place. If you are not interested in the job that pays less and isn't in a sector of interest, then that's a no brainer for me. I'd go for the one that gives me more money but make sure it's the right fit for you. Good luck and keep us posted!

2. AnonymousApril 25,2025 at 3:36PM UTC

   My advice is don't get too ahead of yourself. You consider written offers in hand. You can really stress out on the whole process if you focus on the "what ifs". Just cross that bridge if/when you actually receive the offer(s).

3. AnonymousApril 28,2025 at 2:31PM UTC

   This this! We try so hard to plan ahead, but we get too wrapped up in possibilities that haven't necessarily even presented themselves yet!

4. AnonymousApril 28,2025 at 3:30PM UTC

   I completely agree. I can't tell.you the times it didnt work out when my friends banked on a sure the.

5. AnonymousApril 28,2025 at 4:12PM UTC

   Agree, verbal feedback can’t be counted on.

6. Yamini BangarusamyApril 25,2025 at 6:58PM UTC

   I would inform the first company that you are expecting to hear from another opportunity soon and would appreciate it if the hiring team could expedite their reference checks in light of your timeline! Then, you can finish up your interview with the second role--hopefully, by adjusting the timeline, you can compare/contrast both offers side-by-side! Good luck!

7. AnonymousApril 27,2025 at 1:52PM UTC

   I agree with Yamini. Let them know you are waiting to hear from another company. My concern with the first company is the "few weeks out" comment. The reference request makes me think you are the lead candidate. The long wait makes me think there are other forces in play that could put the job on hold.

8. AnonymousApril 27,2025 at 3:59PM UTC

   I would let them know that you are in final stages with another company and that your references have asked to only be contacted once and at the offer stage because they are busy with their own work. Let them know that you are deeply interested and have excellent references to share. If you get an offer then you can decide which way to go. Take the role which comes first if everything aligns and unless the timelines match perfectly they likely won't.

   Keep in mind content of the role, culture and compensation combined should get you to yes.

   You could also ask the company that is requesting references how many people are in consideration now, what date they hope to make their decision. Knowing this will help you to decide if you wait or not. Chances are once this second company (low level one) gives you an offer they will time box it for your response and you don't want to play one against the other for risk of losing the offer you have. Think wisely about how to zig or zag.

9. AnonymousApril 28,2025 at 5:34AM UTC

   Definitely move through the steps of each job and don't make a decision until you have an offer from each. You should be honest and let them know that you have an offer on the table from another company (or what stage that is in), as they may agree to match or better your salary. To me, the first role would be my choice if there's an offer, as you'll be acclimated more easily. And it's more money to save for family and such. Make a pros and cons list of each to see which comes out on top.

10. Kim RaperApril 28,2025 at 12:37PM UTC

    Take your time and dont make a hasty decision. Ideally you will have both offers to consider in a timely manner. IF not, then weight the odds but do what you feel is best - its not always about money for sure.

11. Rosa GoesApril 28,2025 at 4:19PM UTC

    I would see it through for both companies. However if given offers by both, I would go with the first role. You mentioned working with the staff from the second role but what if the staff leaves over time. You may be left with new staff you don't like in an industry your not really interested and with lower pay. All to say that people can disappoint. Think of something else you like about the second role.. Good luck to you!

12. misskelleypApril 28,2025 at 5:17PM UTC

    Take the first job that comes through. A bird in the hand.... But then if you do get an offer from a second company, if you feel that would be a better fit for you, apologize and let the first company know that you'll be accepting another offer. Any company will do what's best for them without a second thought, you should do the same.

13. AnonymousApril 28,2025 at 10:39PM UTC

    references in this day and age??

    Anyone can and will say anything if asked despite what the LAW states regarding this.

    Grab the job that pays your bills today. Keep looking if it helps you sleep at night.

14. AnonymousApril 29,2025 at 1:06PM UTC

    I think it depends on whether you are looking for a job or a position that enhances your career. (I personally would hesitate majorly to take a job that didn't interest me but I liked the people: people can, and do, change and then you're in a job you weren't that enthusiastic about.)

15. Estrella RodgersApril 29,2025 at 2:16PM UTC

    After a full military career, I choose fun. By that I mean a job that you will enjoy with people that you can see walking together and adding value to each other.

16. AnonymousApril 29,2025 at 2:34PM UTC

    In my opinion, take what is confirmed , guaranteed and comes first. You might not be selected for the second job which is taking long time to be approved , they might not approved. In my country we say, one bird in hand is better than ten birds on the tree.

17. D. Prude, PHR, SHRM-SCPApril 29,2025 at 4:06PM UTC

    Congratulations on making it this far in the process—especially after a challenging year. It’s completely understandable to feel torn between two very different opportunities, especially when each brings something valuable.

    Here are a few points to consider:

    Revisit Your Priorities – Think about what matters most right now: compensation, career advancement, work-life balance, alignment with your field, or a supportive team environment. Clarifying this can help guide your decision.

    Wait for All the Information – If possible, wait to receive both formal offers before making a decision. Seeing the full package—including benefits, expectations, and culture—can give you a clearer comparison.

    Long-Term Fit vs. Immediate Relief – The higher-level role in your field might offer long-term career growth, while the other could provide stability and a positive work environment. Neither is wrong—it depends on what’s most important for your current season.

    Trust Your Instincts – With your 30 years of experience, you know what energizes you and what drains you. Listen to that internal voice—it’s often your best guide.

    If you’d like, I can help you outline pros and cons or draft a response once you have the offers in hand.

    Wishing you all the best and hope you truly get what aligns best with your needs and desires!