Be honest. In this scenario, honesty really is the best policy. Give the recruiter or HR manager the benefit of the doubt and just tell them you have received another job offer that you'd like to consider. In all likeness, they will appreciate your candor.
Legally, you are not obligated to tell your employer where you are going or how much you are making. You can say “I'd prefer to keep that information confidential at this time, but once I get started with my new employer I'll drop you a line and give you an update”. Or you can tell them where you're going.
Because it doesn't directly affect things, it's OK to not discuss it at work. If you do decide to let your employer know, you probably don't want to make a big deal out of it. This could make for an awkward exchange. Instead, you can casually mention it in passing or work it into a conversation.
Start the discussion by talking about what you like about your current job. Then gently but firmly bring up the counteroffer and its benefits, and ask whether your existing employer can offer you any incentives to stay. No matter what, don't resort to threats, anger, or bullying.
When you meet, explain that you'd like to apply to another position within the company that has opened. Explain your “why” for wanting to transfer and why you think your skills and experience make this role the right fit for you and your career growth.
Refrain from sharing too many details about your new job. It's best to simply tell your coworkers that you will be leaving, and on your resignation day, exchange contact information with people with whom you want to maintain friendships. Never discuss your new job's salary or benefits with coworkers.
Email or phone the hiring manager and explain that you have another job offer and when you need to give them an answer. What is this? Reiterate your interest in your preferred position but explain that you are considering the other offer as a backup.
Turning down a job offer after you have already accepted it can be an uncomfortable experience. However, as long as you have not signed an employment contract with the company, you are legally allowed to change your mind.
If you want to accept an offer from another company after you've already accepted one elsewhere, it's best to call the recruiter from the company you planned to join as soon as possible and inform them you changed your mind.
Examples of positive reasons for leaving a job
I feel like I'm ready to take on more responsibility. I believe I've progressed as far as I can in my current role. I need a change of environment to motivate me. I want to develop a new skill that isn't required in my current job.
Be Honest (Kind of)
Talk about how you're looking for a new challenge in your career, learning a new industry or focus area, or needing to find a new job because you're relocating—those are honest, relatable answers. You say: “I feel as though I'm ready for another stage in my career. A new challenge.
I am writing this letter to inform you of my intent to resign from the [name of position or title] with [name of company]. My last day of employment will be [date of resignation]. While this was not an easy decision to arrive at, after careful consideration, I do not believe I am a good fit for this position.
According to Lauren Milligan, founder and CEO of ResuMAYDAY, you shouldn't mention other interviews you've scheduled or other companies you might want to work for. “Letting the interviewer know that you are interviewing elsewhere immediately makes them less interested in you.
It's better not to jeopardize your current position until you've accepted an offer for a new job. Nevertheless, when it is time to tell your current boss, remember to be polite and at your professional best. It is best not to burn any bridges.
It is simple: you can lose a job offer by negotiating salary if you make unreasonable demands or by going below what is expected of the request.
Thank you so much for considering me. I think I will really be able to make a quick impact on [insert thing you know they care about a lot]. I wanted to make you aware of something that's developed this week and see if you have a recommendation for me. I've unexpectedly received another job offer.
Thank you very much for the opportunity. However, I was offered another opportunity that I feel is a slightly better fit for my career goals, and I've decided to accept it instead. This was not an easy decision, and I hope you and your team are successful in finding the right person for your role.