Originally Posted by Unregistered

Hi I have a question.

I received 2 provisional offers from 2 different stat boards. Basically, both called and say they want to offer and informed about the remuneration. I have to respond to my second-choice by this friday if I would like to accept the provisional offer, after which I will meet the director and receive the contract. This would all be done by next week.

Verbal offer means nothing in the eyes of the law. They are simply trying to gauge your level of interest to this job. Some people they call may say they already found work. Besides, why are you meeting the director after the verbal offer? Usually the director is called in to be the tie breaker, there are two or three top candidates and the manager feels all are good. In simple English, you are still in danger, just express interest and chill.

But my first-choice says give them 2 weeks to settle the posting and paperwork etc.

Should I reject the 2nd-choice provisional offer or accept and then reject at the signing contract stage? But even if I accept 2nd choice now and reject next week, I still won't get the official contract for 1st choice by next week.

I know I want my 1st choice but I'm just scared that what if they suddenly rescind the offer. Is there any possibility of that happening in public sector?

possible to rescind... But my opinion is, just express interest for both. if your first choice offers you later on, just serve notice with the second choice employer. If need to pay liquidated damages, just pay. You call it first choice means... It will make you unhappy to let it go right.. Then don't let it go.

Negotiate both in isolation, don't play them against each other.

Very soft market, don't take chances, treat each opportunity like there's no alternative.

Thanks in advance!!!