Dear Aegistech,
I’ve got two great job offers. How should I choose which one to take? — Steven, Staten Island
Dear Steven,
What a great problem to have! Ultimately, only you can make the final call on the best role, but here are five things we suggest when considering multiple offers:
Take a close look at the future of your field.
Steven, you don’t mention what technologies you are working with, but let’s pretend you’re a Front End Developer. We’ve seen a huge demand for Web Developers with JavaScript/HTML5 and mobile experience. If one of your offers gives you a chance to work with JavaScript/HTML5 or mobile technologies, that’s a huge plus.
Take a look at what new technologies you’ll be exposed to in each role and how you’ll be able to expand your skillset. Gaining experience with the latest and greatest tech is always a good way to ensure career growth.
Keep your Recruiter in the loop.
If you’re working with a recruiter, it’s a good idea to let them know about your situation. A good recruiter (like ours!) won’t badmouth a competing position, but will speak with you objectively about both roles and trends they’re seeing in the marketplace. If you keep your recruiter up to date, they can give you more information about their position and keep the client from getting antsy while you make your decision.
Consider your Career Path
If one role is hands-on development and the other has a management component in addition to development, make sure you think carefully about where you’d like to be and what you really want to be doing.
Right now we’ve got a Core Java Developer role with a global investment bank where the client is looking for a pure coder with no management background and a .Net Lead Developer role with a travel technology firm where the candidate will lead an offshore team. Not everyone is cut out for an IT management role, so be sure to think about which is best for you.
Find your Hot Buttons.
Think about what’s most important to you — we call these “Hot Buttons.” These are the factors most critical and that excite you the most. Is money critical? Do you want to be home every day by 6 p.m.? Is extra vacation time really important to you? Does one company’s Pizza Friday policy play right into your pepperoni addiction?
Whatever your Hot Buttons are, make sure they’re part of your decision.
Avoid a Counter Offer.
If you’re so in demand you’ve got two offers, you might end up with a counter offer from your current employer. It’s probably a good idea not to take it.
Good luck Steven! If you’re sharp enough to get two offers, I’m sure you’ll make a great decision.