Securing a job offer is a significant accomplishment, but the situation becomes complex when a timeline is attached to that offer (Company A) while you are still awaiting a decision from a preferred company (Company B). Navigating this scenario requires a balanced approach that maintains professionalism while strategically leveraging the existing offer. This communication process is not about issuing an ultimatum; it is about conveying your high market value and genuine interest in your preferred role to prompt a timely resolution. Handling the situation with diplomacy and transparency allows you to manage multiple timelines and secure the best outcome.
Determine Your Goal and Timeline
Managing a competing offer requires defining a precise strategy before any communication occurs. You must clearly establish your desired outcome, which may include obtaining a counter-offer from the preferred company, expediting their hiring decision, or simply gaining a few extra days to finalize your choice. Identifying this objective dictates the specific language you will use when speaking with the hiring managers involved.
Before reaching out to either organization, review the existing offer’s deadline and determine the latest date you need a commitment from your preferred employer. Set this internal deadline a few days before the official expiration of the standing offer to allow for a buffer against unexpected delays. This clear timeline provides the framework for all subsequent requests for extensions or accelerated decisions, ensuring you retain control over the process.
Strategy for Contacting Your Preferred Employer
Contacting the preferred employer, Company B, with news of an existing offer creates a sense of urgency around your candidacy. You should reach out to the primary contact, such as the hiring manager or recruiter, as they are best positioned to influence the internal decision-making timeline. The goal is to signal that you are highly sought-after and immediately available to hire.
Your communication must emphasize that Company B remains your first choice, framing the competing offer as a development that necessitates a quick decision, rather than a threat. Being transparent about your situation gives the preferred company the opportunity to accelerate their process or make a more competitive offer. This demonstrates professional courtesy and signals your high market value.
When discussing the offer from Company A, you do not need to disclose specifics like salary figures or detailed benefits unless directly asked and prepared to negotiate those terms. The focus should remain on your strong alignment with Company B’s role and mission. Explain that you are under a deadline to respond to the standing offer and would appreciate an update on their timeline to help you make an informed decision.
How to Request an Extension on the Existing Offer
Successfully requesting an extension from the company that issued the offer, Company A, requires a professional and appreciative tone. Make the request as soon as you realize you need more time, avoiding the impression that you waited until the last minute. A short, specific extension of 48 hours to one week is considered reasonable, as most companies understand that accepting a new role is a major career decision.
The reason for the extension should be brief and centered on the need for thoughtful consideration, without mentioning the competing offer. State that you are thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the offer and want to ensure you make a long-term commitment that benefits both parties. This approach demonstrates seriousness and respect for the weight of the decision.
Always provide a specific date by which you will deliver your final decision, showing that you are conscientious and reliable. Asking for an indefinite amount of time is unprofessional and signals a lack of clarity in your decision-making process. Requesting a defined timeline manages Company A’s expectations and demonstrates that you are taking the offer seriously.
Essential Communication Templates and Scripts
Contacting Company B (Preferred Employer)
When communicating with your preferred employer (Company B), a phone call is often the most effective channel to convey urgency and genuine enthusiasm. You can follow up with an email to formalize the discussion and confirm the agreed-upon timeline.
A script for this conversation should begin with expressing excitement about the role and then transition to the status update. State, “I remain highly interested in the [Role Title] position, but I wanted to be transparent that I have received an offer from another organization with a response deadline of [Date].”
Requesting an Extension from Company A (Offering Company)
For the formal request for an extension from the offering company (Company A), an email is the standard and most professional method. The template should open with sincere gratitude for the offer and the time spent during the interview process. You can then state, “To ensure I give this significant opportunity the thoughtful consideration it deserves, would it be possible to extend the response deadline to [Specific Date]?” This phrasing avoids mentioning other companies entirely and focuses on your due diligence.
Final Follow-Up with Company B
If the deadline from Company A is fast approaching and you have not received a definitive answer from Company B, a follow-up email is necessary. This communication should reiterate your strong preference for their company and gently remind them of your impending deadline. You could write, “With my deadline for the other offer approaching on [Date], I would appreciate any update you can provide on the decision timeline for the [Role Title] position, as I am eager to move forward with your team.”
Handling Different Outcomes
Once your timeline concludes, you must act decisively and maintain professional etiquette regardless of the outcome. If your preferred company (Company B) extends an offer, formally accept it immediately and then promptly notify Company A that you will be declining their offer. The communication to the company you decline should be brief, gracious, and appreciative of their time and the opportunity they presented.
To decline the offer from Company A, send a professional email stating that after careful consideration, you have decided to pursue another opportunity that aligns more closely with your long-term career goals. This short explanation is sufficient, and you should avoid providing excessive detail or expressing regret to maintain a clear boundary and leave a positive final impression.
If Company B is unable to meet your timeline or match the standing offer from Company A, you must be prepared to accept the existing offer or decline both if Company B was the only acceptable choice. If you accept Company A’s offer, do so with renewed enthusiasm and commit fully to the role. This final stage requires clarity and adherence to the decision you have made.