Is it ok to ask for some time to decide whether i'l take the job offer??

[luvinRN]

Hello everyone,

I recently moved to this city and have been looking for a job for a couple of months now. I recently landed a few interviews : The one I am MOST interested in is in 2 weeks however the rest are scheduled from tomorrow on out. My question is, if I were to get a job offer from another unit or hospital (which are second on my preference list ) before that interview is it ok to ask for sometime to make that decision? If so how much time should I ask for? I don't want to risk them thinking I am not interested but I would hate to accept the offer (If and when I do get one) and then find out I could have worked at the place that was first on my preferred places to work. Let me know! Thanks:redbeathe

[freebirdRN86]

I was in your same position. I was offered a job at a facility before I went for an interview for a position at a hospital I really wanted to be at. I accepted the position and then rescinded my decision when I was offered my desired position. I don't regret it one bit and I'm sure the other facility had no problem finding a replacement, considering how many nurses are looking for jobs. I did however, call the facility to let them know a better opportunity had come along and thanked them for the opportunity.

You have to do what's best for yourself.

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

That is wonderful! Congratulations!

[MassED, BSN, RN]

Let me tell you my recent experience - over a year ago.

I had two interviews within days of each other. ER #1 that I kindof liked, but wasn't my preference offered me a job within days and gave me the weekend to think about it. I asked to have a bit of time and I'd get back with them on Monday. I then called ER #2 to tell them that I'd received a job interview from another facility and REALLY liked them and if they could let me know their status before Monday afternoon before I make a decision on this other one. I felt like being honest was the best approach, particularly since I made it clear to ER #2 that they were my first pick. Well Monday afternoon comes around, I call the ER#2 HR, who is unavailable or away from the desk, whatever. I call that nurse manager, since I knew she said she really wanted me. By the time the nurse recruiter got back to me it was almost 8 days later. I told her that I, unfortunately, had taken the other job offer and I had let her know that was why I was under the gun for a decision from them within a short time frame, but that I couldn't accept their offer. She was miffed, but oh well. They lost out.

In the end, I'm making more money than I would have at hospital #2 and have full-time hours, which is what I was looking for, so all's well that ends well. Plus it's a level 1, so options abound from here, if I choose.

Hope you make the best decision for you.