Opinion: Accepting an offer and turning it down afterwards - any downsides?

Question

Dear community,

First, thank you for your support. I am reaching out because I might soon be in a position where I need to cancel an offer I received and signed a contract for. I wanted to get your opinion on the matter.

More precisely, I might soon sign an offer with a tier-2 in Europe, start date end of 2021. However, I have interviews scheduled with MBB for September, after which I might also get an offer (hopefully:). If that turned out to be the case, and I were to accept it, I would need to cancel the priorly signed tier-2 offer. Of course, I would cancel it at least 3 months before the actual start date.

Would there be any negative consequences if this were to happen? Of course, besides the bad image I would give of myself. But legally, can I go under?

Thank you in advance!

Answer 1

Hey,

This is fine and does happen. Just make sure you end on a positive (and apologetic) note with the firm. Dont leave them with any mis-understanding as you never know how paths may cross in future.

All the best.

Answer 2

Sign the offer if you have to. Make sure to get a lawyer to get you out of the contract once time comes (most of the times firms are OK with you leaving in the first couple of months). Will you burn bridges? Absolutely - but this is industry standard and people would not be too surprised.

Answer 3

Hi there,

The legal consequences after you sign depend on the contract. I know that in some countries (eg China) some Tier 2 put financial penalties in contracts in case they are rescinded.

I would not expect any other penalty besides that, but you may want to consider a quick chat with a lawyer in your particular country if you really want to be 100% sure.

You may also call MBB now, explain you have an offer and see if they can anticipate interviews - they are usually quite flexible with that.

Hope this helps,

Francesco

Answer 4

Hi, congrats on the offer! It is totally legal and it is the standard practice of candidates who receive multiple offers. Signing is the only thing you can do, otherwise, you lose the offer.

Best,
Antonello

Answer 5

Hi there,

You need to check the contract - I cannot for certain say you are safe in your particular situation. Also, if there is a signing bonus be careful here

However, in general, it's perfectly "fine" legally to cancel a work contract. Reputationally, it's not a good habit to make, but, a one-off scenario (especially with 3 months notice) is reasonable. Finally, plenty of companies break their contracts! If you won't start until end of 2021, I view it as perfectly within your rights to get employment sooner...i've seen too many people get screwed last minute...always have a plan B!

Answer 6

Hello!

Read in the contract that you signed whether there are any issues.

Usually there won´t be, this is really really common.

The only problem will be that you will look bad to the other company, but that is minor honestly. Try to then communicate as well as you can, and be polite

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara