Losing a Job Offer in Ten Easy Steps | Smith Hanley Associates

September 16, 2021

Losing a Job Offer in Ten Easy Steps from Smith Hanley Associates

Losing a Job Offer in Ten Easy Steps from SmithHanley Associates, LLC
You got the job offer! Congratulations!
Remember, between the job offer and the start date there are still ways you could lose it.
Be careful, prepared and professional. Here are 10 things NOT to do.
1. Skip the Thank You
Don’t forget a thank you for the last round of interviews before the offer is extended.
86% of talent acquisitions specialists and hiring managers say failing to send a thank you note shows a lack of follow through.
2. Have Questionable Manners
Make sure your table manners are up to speed for dinner or lunch interviews.
Practice with someone who knows the right fork to use and the right conversation to have during the meal.
3. Lie on Your Resume
There is no excuse for lying on your resume.
Don’t do it. Losing a job offer will be the result.
4. Fail the Background Check
Be honest and forthcoming about anything that may come up.
Address any possible revelations before the background check is conducted.
5. Fail the Drug Test
With the legalization of marijuana in select states this issue has become a cloudy one.
Don’t take a chance that a company may follow federal guidelines.
6. Bad References
Manage your references to avoid this issue.
Check that every reference is willing to give you a positive reference.
7. Not Responding
If a job offer is extended, let them know that you are excited and need a day or two to think it over.
8. Overly Greedy Negotiation
If the job offer is in the range you expressed to the client initially, negotiating for more isn’t in good faith.
9. Going Social in Your Decision Making
HR and hiring managers often Google candidates.
Don’t light up social media with your friends looking for input about their company and your job offer.
10. Taking Too Long to Decide
It may not be reasonable for an employer to demand an immediate response but don’t take too long to make your decision.
Ready to Start Your Job Search? Contact Jacqueline Paige, Partner, 203.319-4310, or email: jpaige@smithhanley.com.