4. Alert the Other Suitor, But Time it Right
OK, so let’s say you’ve bought yourself a bit of time with the first offer. Now, what do you do about that second opportunity? Should you keep your lips zipped entirely? Can you use the one as leverage? And, if you are going to alert them, how and when do you do it?
I’m a proponent of alerting the other party, but you must use extreme care that you don’t look like you’re looking to pit one employer against the other in some kind of bidding war. And you want to time it right. I typically recommend that a job seeker wait until the end of the final interview. By that point, you’ll have a strong hunch about how you stack up in the race, and hopefully a feel for their decision-making timing.
Assuming you’re a front-runner, now is the time to bust out something like this:
“I’m so excited about the possibility of working for ABC Company. Thank you so much for considering me. I think I will really be able to make a quick impact on [insert thing you know they care about a lot]. I wanted to make you aware of something that’s developed this week and see if you have a recommendation for me. I’ve unexpectedly received another job offer. While ABC is by far my top pick, there are aspects of the other role that appeal to me. They would like a response within the next couple of days. Do you anticipate that ABC Company will be firming up a decision shortly?”
At the least, the person with whom you’re interviewing will likely appreciate your honesty. And in the best case (assuming they really want you), ABC Company will accelerate their decision so that they don’t lose you to a competitor or other opportunity.
