To keep two companies hanging

[Comfusedanddazed]

I am in a position I've never been in before. I've got two good job offers. One is slightly behind the other and that's the one I really want. The first one is about to get into references etc and I really want to let them know before all that but I can't turn it down until the second offerers pull their finger out and at least send my offer over in writing.

AIBU to proceed with both until I know who's putting their money where their mouth is? Although unlikely, I don't want to end up with none at all! Could I get sued for accepting and then refusing an offer? This is UK by the way.

As frustrating as it is for the recruiting company to do all the work with references etc then have someone walk away, there's nothing to stop you doing that

If the one you really want is dragging their heels though, is this for a good reason or is this indicitave of how anything goes within the company?

I would keep your options open. Should the 2nd job get their finger out you just politely say to the first one that you're really sorry but you've had an offer elsewhere that you've decided to accept.

You can’t get sued. When is start date?
id be telling job 2 the truth: you have another offer but prefer them so can they get offer to you asap

I would politely point out to the second company that you have another offer on the table but that you want their job so would appreciate them hurrying up.
Good candidates are being snapped up quickly atm so they should act fast!
Well done, hope it works out for you!

Totally go for it

Good luck

Do not tell either about the other job

Keep schtum

Just get in touch with company 2 and ask for a timeline.

This happens all the time. Just be up front, people will respect you being honest and open. What is annoying is when candidates fuck about.

Proceed with both offers.

Drop the one you don't want.

Companies do it all the time. They'd have no qualms.

This is a time to act in utter self interest and you aren't harming anybody.

Congratulations!!

I recruit for my company. And this is what you need to say so that they are aware. If you’re worth having then they’ll move faster.

just say “just for full clarity, I am in the final stages with another company. I would prefer the role at your company because XXX. The other company is due to get back to me on Tuesday, which I will probably accept if I don’t have other offers by then, although it’s isn’t as great an opportunity as they role at your company, it is still a great role for me”

for the XXX bit say eg I like the company culture, or the types of projects, don’t say because you finish at 5