Congratulations!
Your job search and interview process have finally paid off, however with two competing offers, each presenting certain benefits that make it a good fit.
The first thing you should do is just take a moment and remind yourself that some people would riot to be in the position you are in.
Now, let’s break down some points to help you evaluate how to best handle the “two job offers” situation.
Weighing Your Options Between Two Competing Job Offers
Written In Ink
When presented with multiple job offers, it’s natural to start comparing them immediately. However, it’s not wise to do so until you have a physical copy rather than just verbal offers of both opportunities. You want to be able to weigh several vital factors, such as health benefits, vacation time, maternity leave, and commute time against each other. All of these important data points should be measured as concretely as possible.
Also remember, without a written offer, your negotiating power is limited since you're basing all of your facts off a verbal agreement.
So get it in writing and don't forget to read the fine print!
Be Honest
When you encounter this kind of situation, it’s common to ask yourself if you should tell one company about the other offer. In some cases, one offer may require a decision before you've received the specifics from the other proposal. If you have the opportunity to review both offers without spilling the beans then you should do so. It’s possible for a company to feel as if you're trying to shake them down or force them into a bidding war by revealing the other offer.
If you’re cornered and have no other option but to tell the company about the other offer, then do so carefully. An example would be:
“I am appreciative of your offer, and the thought of joining your company is very exciting, but I will be honest and tell you that there is another offer that is currently pending, and I’d like some time to weigh all my options.”
You will always run the possibility of them saying no or stripping the deal; however, hopefully, they’ll respect you for being honest. And in the end, you can thank them for making your decision a lot easier.
Break-It-Down
Once you have both written offers in hand, you should start by writing down what specifically you want from the new job. Make sure, however, to always keep an eye out for any red flags. Health insurance, good company culture, there are so many different variables to take into account, especially with multiple offers.
This shouldn't be a quick process where you immediately run to the offer with the highest salary. You’ll be spending a good deal of your time in this new position, so make sure to consider all factors and not just the obvious ones. To make this process a little easier, consider making a S.W.O.T analysis or another form of a comparison grid.
Before considering the negatives, start mapping out all of the benefits from each proposal. Only after you’ve compared the potential benefits is it time to move on to review the negatives. Factors, such as work environment, travel distance, and your overall happiness should be given the utmost consideration.
The simple act of physically writing them down allows you to grasp a better understanding of the benefits of both offers.
Take A Walk
Take a break. After all, it’s what you do when you need to blow off some steam or if you've hit a rough patch at work. It’s essential that you give yourself some time to think and clear your mind.
When you're stuck in one way of thinking, find some sort of distraction, whether it be watching a movie or reading a book. Just make sure you get out, let loose, and let the two offers be the last thing on your mind for a little while.
Make a Decision
Though this kind of situation can become stressful, you must ultimately choose what feels right for you. Consider everything that is important, make your decision, and never look back.
We all have that inner wisdom lying in the bottom of our stomach -- Listen to it.
