Already signed one offer-can i rescind?

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I accepted and signed an offer letter for one hospital and will begin orientation in a few weeks. But, i unexpectedly received another offer at a different hospital for a similar floor. I would be happy at either job. The offer that I signed doesnt mention anything about being binding-can i call them and say that I have another opportunity and want to rescind my acceptance? Does that happen in the nursing world?? I understand that that would burn bridges at the first hospital which i guess is ok with me but i am feeling and will feel guilty for backing out?

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Specializes in ICU.

You can do it, but it would be a little unprofessional. I'm a little curious as to why you'd want to - if you'd be happy in either job, what would be the point in taking the second offer over the first?

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The second job (not the one i signed) pays a bit more, the cost to commute would be substantially less, and i have more opportunities to grow and move to different areas (its a larger health system) in the future. So there are some perks to it compared to the one I signed, but it's hard to weigh them and compare. My pro con list looks like a tornado lol

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Well, if it helps (and it wouldn't help ME a bit, to be honest :)) you have very valid reasons to turn down the other position. Just be sure you weigh the possibility of burning bridges. But it sounds as though the second position would put you more ahead in the long run, and not just because of pay.

And stuff like this happens everywhere, not just to RNs.

This isn't a personal decision when it comes to the employer you're turning down. They'll find another applicant. Ultimately this decision is about YOU, not some nameless HR division. Trust me - they have no shortage of applicants. It's all strictly business for them.

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I agree w/Carolinapooh - take the job that is best suited for YOU. Call the other hospital, tell them your situation has changed and you will not be able to move further in the process of coming on board. I personally would not tell them it's because of another job and wouldn't offer an explanation. If they asked, I would say "family issues" or something along those lines. Go for the job that works best - as "pooh" said - it's business for them, you won't be the first to have done this & they have other people in line who will be happy for the opportunity.

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

You need to pick the position that is best for you. If that means rescinding your acceptance of job #1 for job #2, then do it. Doing this may or may not burn a bridge--it does happen a lot more than you think. But to improve your chances of keeping that bridge intact, be as professional as possible about the matter. Let them know right away if you're pulling out so they're not kept hanging. Last, if you received any sort of incentive or bonus with the signed offer, you will need to return/repay it when you rescind your acceptance.

Congratulations and best of luck whatever you decide!

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Thanks for all of your input. This really helps me and reassures me that I do have this option of rescinding. I appreciate all of the support!!

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