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Ask HN: Dealing with multiple internship job offers
2 points by anorus on March 23, 2009 | hide | past | favorite | 2 comments
I'm expecting a job offer from Company A sometime this week, and I also have my first interview with Company B. There's a second interview after that before they make a decision. I'm not sure when the Company A will expect me to get back to them on the offer. I like Company A, but Company B has some significant advantages that I cannot ignore.

What should I do if the Company A expects a response before I get an answer from Company B? I informed Company B that I would be dealing with another offer, but they didn't directly address that when they scheduled my interview shortly after that. I feel like I have to wait for Company B, but if it goes on too long it's possible that I could end up with neither job.




In every interview you must be clear about when you will make your decision, and when they will. It's basic politeness not a negotiating tactic. When A calls you back, tell them thanks and that you will let them know by X. When dealing with B, tell them that you will make your decision by X as well.

If A want an answer now, be firm but polite. If they want you they'll wait. If they think you are a dime-a-dozen they won't. Better to find that out now. In the future make date X clear from the getgo.


You may find this an interesting reading : http://www.joelonsoftware.com/items/2008/11/26.html




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