Waiting on an Offer for That Dream Job - Don't Push it With Counter Offers

The Recruitment Process or Lifecycle

The recruitment process is a long cycle. Candidates have to realize that. The more senior the position, the longer the recruitment cycle.

Are you waiting on an offer for that dream job? I have found many companies wanting to 'delay' the recruitment lifecycle. Asking candidates to meet with various managers at different hierarchical levels within the same organization. As a recruiter representing many different corporations, both private and public, I can understand why this happens. Companies are being more cautious. Asking candidates to meet with 4 or 5 different senior managers before a final decision is actually made.

In the end, it depends on how good a 'fit' you are to the company's culture, team and environment. In order for a company to figure out 'appropriate fit'. It makes sense for the candidate to go through a long recruitment process (often lasting 3- 4 months). At certain points throughout the recruitment process candidates do get other offers for companies they are not interested in. If a candidate is unemployed, I understand that casting a wide net will most likely lead to a higher probability of a job offer.

Should You Push or Accelerate The Process?

Too often, candidates ask me if they can 'push' or 'accelerate' the recruitment process in order for them to land that job with that dream company.

I often hear candidates candidly say, "I did receive an offer from Company XYZ but I'm not that interested in them (because of various reasons)... Is it possible to push 'Company ABC' to speed-up the process so they don't lose out on me?"

Once a candidate is in that position, I advise them to seriously consider their situation. And to see if the company they are receiving an offer from is really what they want. Obviously, if s/he accepts, they might be looking for another job two or three months down the road. Even though they know the job they are accepting is not their perfect fit. The important fact to keep in perspective is that companies do not like to be pressured into making important hiring decisions.

Ninety percent of the time if a candidate presents me with an opposing offer. Trying to get me to accelerate the recruitment process at the other company. The response from the 'dream company' is generally the same.

"We are not ready to make an offer at this time and if you think the offer is in your best interest, we wish you all the best. Thank you for meeting with us."

This response is quite standard and usually looked upon as a formal rejection letter from the company. Companies want to know that you (potential employee) want to work with them. They want to know that they are the best in their industry and this company is the most suitable fit between your lifestyle and what they can offer.

Candidates must show a very strong interest in working with their dream company during the interview process. In the end, companies are investing a lot of their time, money, and training in the hiring and training of a potential employeeto ensure their employees are productive. Usually this will take 3 - 6 months of training before the new employees find themselves productive. Unfortunately, it would cost a lot more for a company to let go of an employee and then have to rehire and start the process all over again. Make the correct hiring decisions takes time! 

So, if you are presented with a counter offer - think carefully. Assess your current situation and do some research to see if the job offer you are accepting is the right job offer for you. This is not only an important decision on behalf of the company but also an important decision for the candidates as well.

Looking for assistance in the recruitment process? Visit our employer process page or check out our job board for current open roles!