Question by I Got What U Need: Job interviews, job offers…how long do I have to decide to take a position?
I have had 2 interviews already and have 2 more to go. I need a job right now. Because I am in need of a position fast I am tempted to take the first job offer, whichever it may be. I feel very confident I have a good chance of getting one of the positions I have interviewed for but one of the upcoming would be good too. The last of the 4 is low paying. I really don’t want to accept the low paying position because I am desperate for something now and a few days later get a call from one of the others offering a job. What is a appropriate amount of time to leave before accepting. I don’t want to wait too long hoping on the others to call…..
Should also not, the job I said I feel like I have a good chance at getting is a file clerk position. During the interview she mentioned that they will be going to electronic filing over the next couple of years – which could over time eliminate the position.
Best answer:
Answer by Andrea B
Usually you have around a week to accept an offer. When you get one, they will let you know how long you have to respond.
Add your own answer in the comments!
When you get an offer you usually have something that says when they expect a response by (usually just a few days to a week)
CALL the other companies – tell them you have an offer in hand and want to know what your candidacy with them looks like. This is not uncommon (and better than accepting one and quitting in a few days!)
So … do people make those phone calls without an actual offer letter? Just trying to speed up the process? (It can be a gamble … but it *usually* doesn’t hurt anything.)
Best of luck
Comment by tigglys — September 4, 2010 @ 3:42 am
If the low one offers tell them you are waiting to hear back on another so will need a few days to decide. If they pressure you to choose accept the job then quit maybe even before your first day. It is rude but happens all the time. Ask them for more money and they will tell you they need more time or just tell you no. Don’t be afraid to skip the low paid job if you qualify for another and don’t waste years if you take it to be nice.
Comment by shiprepairwoman — September 4, 2010 @ 3:48 am
Generally, you shouldn’t take more than a few days before accepting an offer, particularly if the company needs you to start right away. However, if the low-paying job is offered to you first, and you’d like it if it weren’t for the salary, you can always attempt to negotiate a better offer. Not only will it buy you more time, you may get what you’re asking for.
Comment by MM — September 4, 2010 @ 4:04 am
If you have been made an offer of employment, it is ok if you ask them a deadline to respond. In that way you will know their needs and respect their limits. They also know you are keeping your options open for a better deal and may be willing to negotiate for a better salary, but that shouldn’t hurt your chances at getting a job. Most employers will give you at least a week to decide.
Comment by Lucien B — September 4, 2010 @ 4:18 am
I depends on if there are other candidate being considered. My supervisor had 2 strong candidates, chose one and they asked to think about it over night. She didn’t even like that. Now you should be able to have a little time, but me personally if I want the job and am willing to accept it then I don’t want to make them wait for more then 48 hours. Otherwise they start to wonder if you really want to work there and if you will be loyal (professionally).
Comment by Simba — September 4, 2010 @ 4:22 am