Choosing from multiple job offers

So, you’re in the process of finding a new job? Perhaps you have applied for a number of jobs and received a few offers? Although this may all seem overwhelming and stressful, it is honestly a great problem to have. Here are some tips and tricks to navigating through this all-important decision.

Firstly, you need to get ALL the facts. No detail here is too big or too small. You need to know what kind of firm you will be working for, and everything that comes with it – the good, and the (hopefully not so) bad. If you have questions, seek clarification. Employers will likely respect the level of interest and importance you are placing on the job.

The next (and arguably most important) step is to compare these job facts to your personal needs and desires. You need to make a decision that is right for you, so this step should not be taken lightly. Set out your criteria, such as the salary, benefits, location, working environment and team/firm culture, longevity, and opportunities, then place a level of value on each criterion and finally rank each job offer against these. This will help in establishing which job offer best suits exactly what you are looking for, and ultimately, which will work out the best for you long-term.

In the instance where you have applied for two jobs and have received an offer on one but still wanting to get a response from the other, there are a couple of options you can choose here. The first is to ask the first hiring manager for a couple of extra days so that you can see the other opportunity out in full. Alternatively, you may contact the second firm and politely enquire whether there is a timeline on when you might hear back. However, firms might say no to either request, in which case you will need to be prepared with your answer and honour that decision. Either route must be handled with the utmost care and diligence so as not to come across ungrateful or insulting. There are two key points here: (1) never explicitly say “Yes” to an offer if you do not have the full intention to follow through, as this will damage your reputation and relationship with the firm, and (2) an offer is not legitimate until you have it in writing, so use this to buy yourself some extra time if needed.

After you have decided which is right for you, it is time to go back to the hiring manager and give your decision. It is imperative that you are gracious and remain professional in the delivery of both the acceptance and the rejection. Ultimately, the firms will appreciate the honestly and openness you have completed this process with, helping you to maintain good working relationships.