<p>It is always tougherbto do the right thing.</p>
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<p>Earning a living is important. If Company A and Texasmama come to terms and Texasmama begins working there, and then Company B comes through, what’s she supposed to do – turn down her dream job? I don’t think so.</p>
<p>As I said before, this happens all the time in business. The only one you have to watch out for is yourself.</p>
<p>The way you do it is important. Do it classy, do it regretfully – but you still have to do it.</p>
<p>OP is looking for a senior position. World gets smaller as one raise up in ranks, and there are fewer jobs out there. You would be surprised how bad reputation travels.</p>
<p>I have been very lucky to be able bring my personal values to work. I spend most of my time at work, it would have been very difficult if I had to behave differently at work. D1 is starting out at a highly competitive and lucrative business. I remind her often not to forget her values. </p>
<p>Last year when D1 had 4 offers for internship, I advised her not to string anyone of them along. Over the summer, 2 of those companies tried to recruit her again. She kept in touch, but she let them know she was
going to sign with her current firm. Those 2 firms told her that if she
ever wanted to move to let them know. I am sure there are a lot of
applicants with similar background as D1, but I do believe her sincerity
and integrity came through of her dealing with those recruiters.</p>
<p>Actually, this question reminds me of the ones that have come up in ethics classes I have attended. Some would say, yes go for both, others would disagree…vehemently. It’s not black and white. So the OP should do what SHE is comfortable with. </p>
<p>Perhaps it would be easier if the interview process with B occurs before the start date with A. Personally, I can’t imagine asking for time off in my first few weeks at A…making up some doctor’s appt excuse and going out for an interview. Or doing a phone interview while I’m sitting at A’s desk. But really, it’s all about giving my word. When I give someone a commitment, that’s it, I’m sticking with it. If anything, I might tell A that I’m looking at B and therefore I’m not quite ready to make a decision yet. Honest, yes. Somewhat risky, again yes. But we all have to do what we are comfortable with. That’s a different answer for each individual.</p>
<p>Follow up: Company A and I negotiated an agreeable salary and I start on November 1. Company B has never called back. I’m perfectly OK about it, and I feel very grateful to have a job in this economic environment. Company A even agreed to a signing bonus.
Thank you all for helping me worry about nothing!</p>
<p>Texasmama, congratulations on finding a good job in this economy! Believe me, a good job is hard to find. I hope it works out well for you.</p>
<p>We have a new motto in this house; it is- Wait to worry!! Each of use spends so much time worrying about things we have no control over; it is so draining. Earlier this year my daughter interviewed with a company; she was considered for 3 different positions and had her heart set on one particular one. While she did get a job offer, it was not for the job she thought she wanted. Fast forward a couple of months; come to find out she is so happy she didn’t get that job. She loves her position and the one she originally wanted is a boring job. Point is she stressed over her job offer, angry she didn’t get the job she wanted, and come to find out she was selected for the job that suited her best!!</p>
<p>I bet you will be very happy with your job; you go girl!!</p>