How to juggle multiple job offers
Well, look at you: after writing and revising multiple cover letters, primping for endless interviews and penning several post-meeting thank you notes, you have received what you were waiting for – a job offer!
However, what happens when the offers don’t stop at one?
Being caught in a sticky case of juggling job offers is common, especially when you have applied to multiple jobs with similar application deadlines. When deciding on which offer to take, there are three important criteria to consider: where your heart and priorities lie, the possibility of career advancement and location.
Knowing what you want
Chances are, if you’ve gone on multiple interviews, you’ve gotten to experience a taste of the unique corporate culture of each company. Are you searching for a laid-back, quirky creative office to join, or a more established, formal workplace? Deciding on where you would feel most comfortable and productive working ahead of time makes the decision process much easier when you have to choose between two or more job offers.
Another key point to consider are your priorities and what you aim to accomplish in your work. If you truly desire a career in a creative industry like advertising, don’t settle for an offer that will never have the potential to land you in the advertising realm.
On the up and up
The possibility of career advancement is also important when juggling job offers and coming to a final decision. Choosing a position that offers the possibility of management and leadership opportunities is something to consider if you hope to climb the corporate ladder. When choosing between two positions, taking one with more responsibilities and professional challenges will pay off in the long run.
Making the move
One of the best and most exciting aspects of receiving a job offer is the possibility of relocating to a new city. Although moving may be a hassle, being able to discover a new way of living while thriving in the workplace makes it all worth it. However, when two job offers are on the table in two different cities, researching the pros and cons of different new metropolitan areas may ease your mind and make the decision easier.
Taking the job that’s right for you
After soul searching, weighing all pros and cons and deciding on which job is best for you, it’s time to accept (and decline) an offer. To keep things timely, have a definite answer for both employers within a week of each of their offers. To politely decline an offer that you are no longer interested in accepting, thank the employer for their time and let them know that you enjoyed meeting them but are taking another offer at the time. Don’t worry about specifics; keeping your call or email short and sweet will suffice in this situation.
To formally accept your dream position, answer your future employer in a timely manner, thank them for the offer and inform them that you accept. Next, be sure to ask educated questions about start dates, training times and any additional information.
Receiving two job offers at once may seem daunting at first, but following your gut and handling the offers in a professional manner is key to succeeding landing the job that you deserve!
