How to decline an already accepted job offer - only accepted verbally

[FreshDoughDaily]

I haven't signed anything yet and my interview was 6 days ago.

It's for a company who I already work alongside. The job I do now and the job I applied for support the same demographic of people but at different points. We interact quite closely so I will be seeing the people who would have been my future colleagues/line manager.

I applied thinking I would never be successful and also I applied on a whim really after being upset at work. I've had a very honest, long chat with my boss about things where I am and it turns out I am held in very high regard. The things that have been bothering me, should now stop and she will be really sorry to see me go.

The new job, is less pay, more hours so I'll earn more though and is with a massive nationwide organisation so the career progression opportunities are much greater. Where I am now, is small, personal with no progression but the flexibility is huge. I work when it suits me, my boss trusts staff to do their contracted hours, which I do and I receive good feedback apparently.

Unfortunately it has taken until now for me to realise that although this is a fixed term contract, I may be better off where I am short term. I do have a few health conditions so I'm not sure how I'll manage a full time role where you have to account for every minute of your day. I can take off and go to a fitness class at lunchtime, pick the kids up and walk the dogs during the day, providing my hours get done.

I fear I've been a bit hasty.....

You call them and say you've changed your mind. It happens!

Guess it's that simple isn't it?
DH is telling me I'm missing out on a good opportunity. But then he isn't the one on the school run is he?

Yes this happens all the time so the sooner you make a decision the better, especially as you will have contact with these people. It’s often the case that you don’t realise you are appreciated until you go but, do have a think about what made you apply and how long you had been feeling g unhappy. Maybe speak to the new people and see if there is any flexibility . Will your DH pick up some of the slack. Give it 48 hrs then decide.

Be absolutely certain before turning this down that your manager isn’t just telling you what you want to hear … it’s quite a typical manager move to say you’re much needed etc until the threat of another job has passed.

Take the job, especially if you have a health condition, you will need a secure job. It's comfort zone talking. Don't decline it.

Think you shall take the new job. If you have been unhappy for a while, just some reassuring words from your manager wouldn't change things.

My old colleague tried to convince me get in touch with my previous boss to get my old job back, as my current work environment is toxic. I did sway a bit but then remembered how unhappy and underestimated I was before I decided to leave.

It's a bit like a relationship, once things are bad enough for you to call it, it won't be lasting too long anymore . The core issues won't change. And when you decide to stay, all the old reasons of being unhappy would just resurface.

Try to negotiate with the new job for better flexibility on hours? Nothing to lose.

This. I wouldn't believe a word of it

Agree with PP, your boss is saying what you want to hear.

And don't underestimate the benefits of being somewhere you can progress.

Your daft to turn it down.
Your fixed term might not get renewed if you have too many sick days.

I'd speak with new company about at least keeping your hours the same

Yeah exactly, there is no shame in changing your mind, companies hire you on a probation period (usually 3-4 months) this is both for you and your employer to see if the new job works out for you. (cause remember during probation they have the right to fire you without a grace period, same goes for you you can quit)