Once you get an offer... is it ok to say NO?

You said NO to a full time job with benefits?!?! It seems like that should be a sin in our downward economy. But, even in this market that is a problem I have faced…

When should I say yes (or no) to a job?

I have stayed in touch with my friends since college and we are all dealing with the same issues. Sending out what seems like a million resumes and hearing back from only a few places, trying to find a paid position that will support us, deciding where and, basically, how to live. . . . surviving. Now, after a few months of job searching one of my friends is successfully talking to 2 companies!

Here's the deal:

Company 1: Contemporary Classic American Clothing Company
Full time position with benefits as a manager in charge of an entire store’s sales, visual displays and daily operations, BUT they have not officially offered it. It is TENTATIVE. Which means she could wait from a day, to a month, or even up to 5 months until it becomes an official offer.

Company 2: Luxury Accessory Company
Part-time position in retail where she would be working with the visual display co-ordinator for the next couple of months, at which point 2 jobs are opening in the management position she is working towards. The company always hires from within and has a lot of room for growth. Even better yet, there are opportunities for international experience in the future.

Facing those options, my friend looked to her friends and family for advice / opinions on the decision. What it came down to was: Which choice would be more in line with her interests? Where would she be more passionate? (She‘s leaning toward the Luxury Accessory Company due to her French background and love for the company and the opportunities it holds for future growth.)

Now, I find that one of the hardest decisions is actually saying YES to a job…any job. It feels like once you say yes you have committed to a serious relationship and have locked yourself into a situation in which there is no backing out. Well, what I’ve discovered is that people say yes everyday and then change their minds within months of accepting. So don't feel like you’re making a 10 year commitment to stay on when you go to work for your first “career” company. Instead, explore your options and go for the place that can give you the best experience. And be sure to ask yourself – How hard will I work for a job that I’m not really that psyched about?

Don't be afraid to shop around and ask friends and family what they think. But remain objective while taking all opinions into consideration. Ultimately it is YOUR career and YOUR commitment.

In the mean time, work at boutique, restaurant, bar, camp, computer store, bookstore, coffee shop, pizza place or anywhere else you like the atmosphere until you figure out where you fit in best….enjoy your career search!