How to manage multiple job offers to come out on top
If you receive multiple job offers at the same time, you may feel more stressed than flattered. Choosing the best offer from the bunch, without any regret later down the line, can be a daunting task if the answer isn’t immediately obvious, but the trick is to stay calm. Take a step back, realise that you’re in a great position and make a calculated decision to move forward. Here’s a quick 6-step guide to juggling job offers that puts you in the driver’s seat.
- Know your decision-making time frame
One of the biggest difficulties you’ll face is juggling your time while you make a decision. First thing’s first: don’t rush the process. If you’ve received an offer but you would like to hold out for a second or third, ask for time to consider each offer, or find out how long you have to respond at the very least. Be careful how you word a request for extra time, as you don’t want to create any doubts about your interest for the role. Most employers will understand that you want to take your time to consider all options, but remember to maintain a timely line of communication so the hiring manager doesn’t move on.
- Ensure you have all the information you need
If you need extra time to consider the offer, one sensible and reasonable way to extend the process is to ask questions about the role in its entirety to help you compare each role effectively, for example, “Will I be part of a bonus scheme?” Our article Salary Negotiation 101 discusses the entire package can extend from company benefits and training programs to a company car and travel expenses. If each role is equally appealing, knowing these extra perks could seal the deal.
- Respond promptly and enthusiastically
Plenty of career opportunities have been lost simply because a candidate has left an employer waiting. If you receive an offer in writing or via email, express your interest quickly – without saying “yes” straight away - example reply:
“Thank you for getting in touch. I am very excited to receive your offer and I look forward to speaking with you soon. How long do I have to make a final decision?”
- Don’t sit around, use initiative
Take action to streamline your decision window. Rather than wait around for the other offer, get in touch with the company to express your interest, stating that you’ve had another offer but you would ideally like to work for them. Mention any deadlines that you currently have to make a final decision and keep your options open. If you take this approach, you’re more likely to receive an update from all parties rather than be left in limbo.
- Be honest about your predicament
Hiring an employee is expensive and takes time. If you accept an offer then retract the decision when a better job comes along, you risk upsetting the recruitment chain and damaging your reputation, affecting any future work opportunities in the process. Like we said, most employers will understand that you may have interviewed for others and that you’re taking your job search seriously. If the question over whether you are interviewing with other companies doesn’t arise during the interview, be upfront about this fact afterward. If anything, it may provoke a quicker response or a better offer that you can’t refuse!
- Seek advice from your recruiter
If you haven’t already, find out the recruiter who has been assigned to fill the role. Use them as a guide to steer your decision. They will probably be able to shed insights on how to approach multi job offers and industry trends that could promote one position over the other(s).
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