In between 2 jobs

[Modular]

I'm in between 2 jobs right now. The first has basically offered me a position although I have not signed a contract. I have a second interview with the 2nd job tomorrow in which I am sure they will make an offer of the position if they like me. I would rather take job #2 at this point.

The bind is this: I'm going out to dinner with job#1 tonight and want to be honest with them about why I haven't signed the papers yet. I've tried multiple times this week to get in touch with them on the phone (read I don't want to leave a message with this information because that's too unprofessional) and have not been able to reach them. Job #2 just came out of nowhere: I met with someone this past Thursday for coffee, had an interview Friday and a second interview tomorrow, after which I will make my final decision.

Should I just go out to dinner with job #1, or try again to call them and explain the situation? Do they have any right to know why I'm not signing or am I being too "nice" in divulging that information. I have a good relationship with them and don't ever burn bridges when it comes to business or personal life for that matter.

 

[pontifex]

Just tell them that you got an offer with another company and that you want to see what they offer before making a decision. Heck, if Job #1 wants you bad enough, they may try to do more to get you over Job #2.

 

[Modular]

That's precisely what I've been trying to tell them before they take me out to dinner.

 

[Platypus]

Don't tell them you have an offer if you don't.

The real question is why do you prefer job #2 to job #1.. that makes all the difference here. Let us know...

 

[pyonir]

Originally posted by: Modular
That's precisely what I've been trying to tell them before they take me out to dinner.

If you haven't been able to get a hold of them, then tell them at dinner.

 

[EagleKeeper]

Explain that you have had contact with Company #2 also, prior to Company #1 making you an offer.

Now that you have an offer from Company #1, you have informed Company #2 that they have until Friday to make an offer.

Inform Company #1 that you will inform them Friday afternoon of your decision.

 

[RossMAN]

During dinner tonight, stall for time 1 more day.
Go to job #2 interview tomorrow.
Decide?

Why do you prefer job #2 over job #1?

 

[Modular]

I would rather take job #2 at this point because it offers a better base salary/better potential for growth, and has an environment that I'm much more comfortable in.

Common Courtesy: That's what I was going to do, I just would rather not do it over dinner. It's awkward especially since I'm sure that they will be paying.

 

[FoBoT]

i don't know, but i do know that free food rocks, so go enjoy the free dinner

 

[pontifex]

Originally posted by: Common Courtesy
Explain that you have had contact with Company #2 also, prior to Company #1 making you an offer.

Now that you have an offer from Company #1, you have informed Company #2 that they have until Friday to make an offer.

Inform Company #1 that you will inform them Friday afternoon of your decision.

ooh, very good idea! that makes it sound like company #1 is the one you are interested in now so maybe they won't drop you as a candidate once they know you were looking at another place other than their company.

 

[EagleKeeper]

Originally posted by: Modular
I would rather take job #2 at this point because it offers a better base salary/better potential for growth, and has an environment that I'm much more comfortable in.

Common Courtesy: That's what I was going to do, I just would rather not do it over dinner. It's awkward especially since I'm sure that they will be paying.

A $20-30 dinner is not going to matter to them and it should not be used to influence you.

If they bring up the subject, then address it. Otherwise let them direct the flow of conversation.

 

[thepd7]

A lot of good advice in this thread, definately do not say no to company 1's offer because you have no idea if you are for sure getting an offer from company 2 and they might completely low ball you even if they do offer, you never know.

Listen to the advice in the thread and most importantly, DON'T BURN THE BRIDGE at #1.

 

[Modular]

Made it through dinner with no problems. I really had a good time. The bill was rediculous, no one had any alcohol and it topped $200 w/o tip for 4 people.

 

[thepd7]

Originally posted by: Modular
Made it through dinner with no problems. I really had a good time. The bill was rediculous, no one had any alcohol and it topped $200 w/o tip for 4 people.

did you get the offer on that second job? update please!