With so many job vacancies in the ANZ Salesforce market and so few well-qualified candidates, it is likely that when you next look for work there will be multiple opportunities for you to consider. 60% of Salesforce professionals interviewed for two or more roles when they last moved jobs and although receiving multiple offers may give you choice and a confidence boost, it can be damaging for your reputation if you do not decline them professionally.
Everyone has the right to decline any job offer that they feel is not right for them but how do you decline a role without burning bridges?
Don’t go all the way
Hiring managers will be much more understanding if you pull out of the running for a role after the first interview than if you decline at offer stage. It is better to explain why the role isn’t right for you early in the process rather than after numerous interviews. If a company is offering you a role there is a strong chance that they are expecting you to accept, or why would you have attended all of the interviews?
Manage expectations throughout
From the very first conversation you should be clear on your expectations and the details of your job search. If you tell the hiring manager that you are looking for X, Y and Z then they know that they have to offer you that in order to secure your services. If you are interviewing with multiple companies then make sure you are up front with this information so that there are no surprises if you decide to take another role.
Don’t keep the company waiting
Take some time to read through the contract but this should take no longer than 24 hours. The longer you delay, the more chance that any backup candidates that the hiring manager has may also accept other roles leaving the company back at square one.
Do not move the goal posts
If you receive an offer which is lower than the figure you have been discussing throughout the interview process then you have every right to negotiate. If your situation changes in the middle of the interview process (another role comes up paying more money, you receive a pay rise at your current company, etc.) then communicate this to the hiring manager but do not wait for an offer and then change your expectations.
Never go back on your word
If you accept a role then you need to be 100% behind your decision and prepared to turn down a higher salary if your current employer gives you a counter offer.
If you have verbally accepted a role or signed a contract then you are guaranteed to burn bridges if you then go back on your commitment. It is likely that at this stage, the company will have informed other candidates that they were unsuccessful with their application, informed the team that you are joining and started planning for your first day in the role.