The job market is thriving, and as a job seeker, you may find yourself with multiple employment offers. While incredibly exciting to have more than one offer on the table, also comes responsibility.
There has been a rise in instances of job seekers accepting more than one offer, deciding which company they want to work for, and not showing up to the other company without letting the employer know their decision—otherwise known as “ghosting” the employer.
If we could share just one piece of advice (the same exact advice we give employers who may end up ghosting candidates during the recruitment process): don’t do it.
As a job seeker, it’s important to be mindful of your actions during the job search process, especially when it comes to accepting job offers.
Here are three things to keep in mind in an interview to protect your professional reputation:
1. Don’t Ghost Your Hiring Manager
If you’re offered a more appealing job after accepting another offer, it’s crucial to always talk to your potential new employer about your change of heart. While this might feel awkward, most employers will understand if you proactively communicate that you’ve found a better opportunity that more accurately fits your needs.
This conversation, albeit uncomfortable, can help you avoid burning bridges with the company and/or hiring manager. As CNN Business states, “It’s a small world. You never know where you might run into that recruiter or hiring manager that you stood up later in your career.”
Even if you don’t feel it’s necessary for your own employee brand to follow up with the hiring manager, do it for all the other applicants out there.
The fewer candidates who ghost their potential employer, the less incentive employers will have to gather a larger pool of resumes to increase the likelihood of finding a candidate who stays committed throughout the recruitment process. This is one of the main reasons that so many applicants’ resumes end up in that resume “black hole,” and nobody likes that.
2. Communication is Key
If you have accepted a job offer but then receive a more desirable opportunity from another employer, it’s essential to inform the first employer of your change of heart. This type of honest communication may lead to a negotiation with the first employer, which could influence your decision to accept the job with them instead.
Also keep in mind that even after accepting another offer, it’s never too late to re-evaluate your options and choose the opportunity that best fits you. Your honesty and professionalism will be appreciated by everyone involved.
Being upfront with everyone in your job search demonstrates that you respect the time and effort they’ve put into the hiring process. It’s also a sign of respect for the other candidates who may have been passed over for the position because the employer believed you were a good fit.
3. Ghosting is Rude
Simply put, ghosting is rude in any context. It’s unprofessional, highly discourteous, and demonstrates a lack of consideration for the hiring manager and the resources they dedicated to the recruitment process.
Although it may be easier for you to simply disappear, it’s a matter of common courtesy (not to mention classy) to follow up with the hiring manager and inform them of your decision to pursue a different opportunity. This respectful and considerate approach demonstrates your professional integrity, which can have a positive impact on your future career prospects.
Protect Your Reputation with ITAC Solutions
Your professional reputation is important, and as someone with big goals for your career, it’s in your best interest to avoid disrespectful behaviors like ghosting your prospective employer. It may save you from having an uncomfortable conversation, but at the end of the day, it could do way more harm for you in the long run.
We get it—looking for a job can be a lot of work, but you shouldn’t have to feel like you need to navigate it alone. ITAC Solutions can help you through the job process. We’ll be with you every step of the way to help you find a position that’s a good fit for your employment needs and goals. Contact us today.
