NHS job offer pull out

[Mel15sa]

Helloo,

I’m in a position where I’ve accepted a job (as I need the security of work), but I’ve just been offered another job that I’d prefer to take.
it’s only been a couple of weeks since I accepted the first offer. I don’t have any unconditional contract.

I know it’s unethical and upsetting to back out, but has anyone had experience of this and how to approach it?

I feel terrible about it, to think I’m potentially making a service re-advertise unless they have a back up candidate, but I think the second offer which I wasn’t expecting is the better fit.

how and what should I approach this? I’m havent recieved an unconditional letter.

could I have asked for a week or two to accept the prior offer? How long does the employer give you to accept or reject given they have other candidates?

thanks xx

This happens all the time OP - it’s not unethical to withdraw your acceptance imo. They will have had back up / runner up candidates. Congratulations on your job offers! Nice position to be in

The NHS recruitment process is so long and drawn out I'm amazed we don't lose more candidates along the way. Much better to withdraw now than regret it and panel can offer to their second choice.

I work in HR and it's really common to lose candidates during the recruitment/offer process (even more so if there are delays during offer!).

I would contact them as soon as you can, so they have more chance of being able to offer to their next best candidate, but there's no need to worry unduly.

@Holiday24 @DarkForces @PeonyPatch Thanks :) even it’s been a few weeks? Do I send an email and never check back? Like ofcourse in my head I’m thinking okay if someone does not want to work for me I’d rather wish them the best than try persuade them.

Do I give a a reason? I believe as I have not received any unconditional offer I don’t have to work a notice period. References have not even been requested. just feel awful, never done this before but first time for everything!

Do it however you feel comfortable but do it as quickly as possible. As a hiring manager I don't really care why or how you tell me tbh, I just need to know!

It’s absolutely fine. I’ve pulled out from an NHS job offer before. You don’t have to give a reason unless you really want to. Just say due to a change in circumstances you are no longer in a position to accept the role, thank them for the offer and their time and wish them the best.

I think you’re overthinking it.

Agree with other pp - inform them as soon as possible!

It happens a lot in the NHS. Tell them as soon as you can so they can offer it to someone else or readvertise. You don't have to give a reason you can say your circumstances have changed which they have. To be honest they won't care about the reason.