Question:
I received a good job offer just after a second company to which I applied called me for an interview. I would prefer to work for the second company because the work would be a closer match to what I want. Should I call the first company and turn down their offer? Should I ask them for more time until I know if I'll get an offer from the second company?
First Answer:
Good jobs are what you look for and great jobs are what you pray for. Sounds like you have one of each. My advice would be to ask the first company for a little more time and to try to push the second company to move up the interview date. I don't know your situation but some people,
if they are taking a vacation or have personal business, ask if they can delay a decision until after they return from their trip. You don't know if you're even going to get an offer from the second company so, if it were me, I wouldn't turn down the first company. I would just try to buy some time.
-- David Gordon, Advertising/Promotions Internship Office, Columbia University in Chicago, Illinois.
Second Answer:
This is the part of the job search that gets interesting. Risk-takers find
it invigorating. Most people find it mind boggling. There is no way to
completely predict the outcome. You must understand the risks you are
taking when choosing how to proceed.
First, remember that EVERYTHING is negotiable. Yes, that's right. Even the stuff they claim they cannot bend on. The question is, do you have the guts to make the request while not seeming too presumptuous and demanding?
Always play out your probable responses and worst case scenarios.
In your case, you should most definitely ask for more time to consider your
offer. What is the worst case scenario? In your situation they will simply say "no, we must know by tomorrow." And even if they say that, you can probably buy a day or two. You can also take a bigger gamble and counter with a different salary...more benefits...etc.
Keep in mind that your industry, the demand of your particular talents, and
the economy in your city or town are all critical components of this job
search game.
Best of luck to you.
-- Holly Lentz, Lentz Productions
