Job offer dilemma

[Belleende]

Just been offered a job. Great role in a world renowned place. Ticks most but maybe not all of my boxes.

Have also submitted another application. More senior role, but smaller place. It ticks all my boxes. The applications for this closed on Monday. Have already prompted to ask that they confirm receipt of application. They said I would know 'in due course'.

So, do I prompt the second place, to see when I will know if I have been shortlisted?
And if so, do I ask for more time from the place that has offered me the role?
G'ah!

I would prompt 2nd place. It'll show you're enthusiastic about their offering, and as you've got another off you're not just badgering them out of impatience. See what they say before going back to 1st place.

I have been shortlisted. So how do I handle the job offer? This is from a place I may encounter again, and that I highly respect. I want to respond today and be honest with them, but do I try and buy some time or reject the offer?

Tricky as it depends on the time frame. I'm usually all for honesty, but the only message you can really give the first one is that they're you're second pick - not a great starting point to the relationship.
Is there any scope for role improvement at the first one, can you negotiate more? Will they be willing to fight to get you? If so, it might be a good time to be honest.
Either way, if they're a good place, and worthy of your respect, a turndown of (the here and now) job offer needn't burn bridges.

I think I have to turn down the offer. The role is fantastic, but not quite right for me. I think I would rather stay where I am and wait for the right thing to come along.