If you are getting ready to graduate from college, have recently graduated, or even looking for a career change, you’ve most likely submitted several applications and posted your resume online. This helps increase your chances of getting an interview and even a job offer. It also means there’s a chance you might end up with multiple job offers, and if you haven’t been in this situation before, you might not know how to navigate it.
If you find yourself with more than one job offer, and you’re not sure what to do, keep reading for tips to help you make the best decision for yourself.
Understand the Job Details
If you are looking at multiple offers, you should have a clear understanding of what will be expected of you in each role. You should be asking the recruiter and/or hiring manager to clarify any details, so you are properly informed.
Be sure to ask about items such as schedule, benefits, compensation, hours, and other factors to help you weigh the options in front of you.
Review the Written Job Offers
If you have received verbal confirmation that you will receive a written offer, make sure you express your appreciation for everyone’s time and are looking forward to reviewing the offer letter. It’s wise to hold off negotiation attempts until the letter has been presented unless they have asked for your salary needs beforehand.
Once you have the letter(s), send a thank you to confirm receipt and ask when they’ll need a response by. This lets the employer know that you have received the offer and gives you a timeline of when they’ll need an answer.
If you have a 2nd offer pending from another company, it’s okay to reach out to see if they have an update on your candidacy. It might serve you well to let them know that while they may be your top choice of employment, you received another offer but are holding off acceptance until you hear from them. This might help rush the offer letter process along.
Negotiate Your Job Offer
As you are reviewing multiple offers of employment, you should look at the different benefits each company has to offer. Ask about employee benefits, vacation time, schedule, and compensation to weigh out which option might be the better fit for you.
If Company X offers something that Company Z is not, but Company Z is where you want to be, you can potentially negotiate that benefit into your offer.
If salary is your deciding factor, be professional and let them know that someone has made a more competitive offer and that you would like to discuss the compensation terms.
If you are the top pick, they might be able to make their offer more attractive and give you more perks and/or money.
Professional Rejection
At some point, you’ll have to make a decision, which means you’ll have to reject other offers. It’s a good idea to keep things professional and not burn any bridges. You never know what the future holds.
Some companies ask for an email response, but it might be a good idea to ask to schedule a call so you can politely explain that you have decided to go in a different direction. It will show more professionalism and might keep that door open should anything change in the future.
Take Your Time
Having multiple offers is not a bad thing, but it can seem a little overwhelming. Don’t be quick to make a decision. If you need some extra time, ask for it. Most companies are willing to accommodate a few extra days if it helps you make the right decision. If not, then do your best to work with the timeline you’ve been given and weigh out your options.
Most importantly, if something does not seem right, don’t be afraid to pass on the opportunity and keep going with your search.
Conclusion
Remember, weighing multiple job offers is a sign of success. By understanding the job details, reviewing written offers, negotiating when necessary, and handling rejection professionally, you can confidently make a decision that aligns with your career goals and aspirations.
