Telling manager you won’t be joining the team

[hungarien]

I’m on a graduate program where you rotate around different teams. You have to pick one team to work in permanently at the end of the grad program. It’s all very competitive and involves a lot of schmoozing.

Teams can open up a full time position if they like you. I really liked team 1. and let the managers know. They liked me too. They managed to get funding available to give me a permanent role.

However, I’ve just done another rotation with team 6. and think I like this area of work even more. This team wants me too. I’m surprised I like it this much.

How do I tell team 1. that I’ve changed my mind and will be going for team 6.?

All in the same organisation?

Wait until team 6 makes a definite commitment in writing before you say anything to team 1 as team 6 could change their mind. When you tell team 1 say it came as complete shock to get the offer from team 6 etc - best not to burn bridges as you may want to go back to team 1 at some point.

I have been a HOD in team 1 and it isn't unusual or surprising to find yourself in this position as graduates frequently change their minds on career options.

Good luck