The future is unpredictable. You might have started a new job with all the best intentions, being fully prepared to commit to it for the foreseeable future, when along comes another job offer that makes you think twice. If it’s an offer for a job with better prospects or it’s your dream job or dream company, it will certainly give you pause for thought. It’s certainly an interesting situation to be in – what should you do if you just started a job and got another offer?
What’s the best way to handle this dilemma? As awkward as it may be, it’s something you should resolve as quickly and diplomatically as possible. Here’s our four-step guide to help you navigate the situation professionally:
1. Look at the big picture
The first thing you need to do is to reflect on your career goals and ask yourself which company offers the best chance for you to achieve them in the long run. Compare both company’s resources and work culture, and the job scope at each company.
2. Define your career priorities
Having a clear idea of your career priorities will be key towards helping you make the right decision. Whether it’s to gain experience in a specific area, or to hone your management skills, you’ll be motivated to do better and remain committed to the company if you get to fulfil those priorities.
3. Weigh the pros and cons
List the pros and cons of each job and company. If you’re not sure where to start, it might help to ask yourself these 6 questions before deciding to change jobs. It’s not a decision to be taken lightly, therefore it’s essential that you consider different perspectives of the matter and do due diligence on the other company. For additional tips on sussing out the company’s work culture, you should ask these questions during the interview.
4. Be professional
If you do decide to accept the other job offer, be professional. Don’t just hand in your resignation letter and leave your boss hanging. Have an open discussion with him/her and explain your reasons for wanting to accept the other job. He/she might present a counter-offer that works better for you. If not, at the very least, you should negotiate an amicable way for you to leave.
Always better to avoid burning bridge – you never know when you’ll cross paths again in the future, and word always gets around.
Having options is always a good thing, but make sure you weigh the pros and cons of both jobs before changing jobs again. Too much job hopping can make you seem unreliable and cause employers to question your commitment and motivation.
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