Rejecting an offer after accepting it?

[ak2190]

I have been on a job hunt for a month or so now. I made the mistake of accepting the first offer I received because I wasn't expecting anything better to come along. Well, now I have received a much more attractive offer from a hospital closer to me and with more opportunities in the company and more compensation. How can I navigate this situation without burning any bridges?

[cat1235]

I know this from a bit ago but I am in your same situation kind of. In my opinion, as a new grad, we are smart (and scared not to) to take the first offer we get. However, if offered something better or something you REALLY want, by all means take it!! Your current hospital may not like it, but I'm SURE they know that this is going to happen sometimes with new grads. You want to be as courteous as you can about it, but that's about all you can do. You worked hard for your nursing degree and you have to make yourself happy. And if you know you may never work at that hospital again, then who cares ...and if there's a chance you will, I feel like as long as you were as courteous as you could be, given the situation that you were a new Grad looking for your niche when you left, there wouldn't be any repercussions about hiring you in the future. And the way I see it is the marker is already tight ... so when you leave, your vacant spot may very well be the answer to someone's prayers Who was wanting or needing the position .

[scaredsilly, BSN, RN]

Because nursing is a calling that we answer because we want to help others and take care of people, we have the mentality that our job is to make everyone happy. That's not a bad thing-BUT the most important person to make happy is yourself!

You therefore take this awesome offer, then tell your NM that while you really appreciate the opportunity, it just isn't a great fit and you give your two week notice. Your last two weeks there, you work your butt off, learn everything you can and don't say anything negative about anyone or anything in the facility. You may make the NM a little unhappy, but overall no bridges burned and you will be taking care of yourself, which will enable you to stay mentally healthy enough to care for your patients.

Congratulations!

[favthing, APRN]

I am in a similar situation. I have been a nurse a few years at the same place, but I want experience in a hospital. I applied to all of the hospitals in my area, feeling that I would be fortunate to have a job offer at even one. My first offer, I followed the hiring process of references and a human resources visit. Just a few days prior I had an interview with another hospital, but hadn't heard about the results. I officially accepted the first offer at my human resources visit, but I then got an offer for a job which is much more fitting for my goals and lifestyle. For one, it's day-shift 12 hour shifts, while the other has said a day shift may open, but the timing wasn't promised for when I start. I also feel very guilty, haven't made any moves yet, and while I am thankful for options I also am concerned about how to handle the first hospital if I go for what's best for me.