How does getting a job offer work.

Ok, so I have applied to multiple full time jobs and have received many interviews. It’s been a long time since I’ve received a job offer, so I don’t remember how it works. If I remember correctly you get the email saying congratulations. Then you have x time to make a decision. And if you accept, then you get a contract to sign.

If you’re wondering why I am asking, as mentioned I am doing multiple interviews for different jobs. There is one job that I have an eye on but the decision on their behalf will take a while compared to the other jobs (as I’ve only completed the first stage of that and I’m on the final stage of the others). What I’m trying to say is, what I get an offer for on of the positions I applied before the one I want (assuming I get an offer). Will I be able to withdraw from the one I’m not as interested in. I hope that makes some sense.

Reply 1

DataVenia

Volunteer Team, Clearing and Applications Advisor

Original post by a.plane

Not all employers follow the same process, although then process you've outlined above sounds fairly typical.

If you end up being an offered a job whilst still waiting for an offer elsewhere, you could try stalling - but you won't be able to stall for very long. Or you could try using the offer to accelerate a decision with you preferred choice. ("I'm extremely keen to work here, but I've just been offered a job elsewhere and I don't know how long I can hold them off before being forced to commit. Is there any way you could accelerate your decision-making process?")

Once you've accepted an offer, you are honour-bound to follow through. However, that doesn't necessarily means that you are legally obliged to do so.

Before signing the contract, have a good read of it. Look out for sections which outline your obligations and/or the scenarios under which you can terminate the agreement. If you're lucky, there will be the option to terminate the contract before the start date, or giving just 7 days notice during an initial probationary period. If so, you would have every right to back-out and join your preferred employer.