ATK offer received but awaiting BCG outcome - how to stall?

Question

Hey guys, I'm very lucky to have been offered a role at ATK. However, I don't expect to hear the outcome of my BCG interviews until mid December.

If I get BCG, I'll take that, but otherwise would be very happy at ATK.

My question: If ATK send me a contract and ask me to sign, what are my options? How is best to stall for time?

Your help and experience are much appreciated here!

Answer 1

Hi,

Several recommendations:

Ask the company how much time you have to consider the offer. Note that It's important to demonstrate the commitment.
Ask the other company to expedite the process
Try to postpone the offer from the first firm if you feel that you are out of time.

Here are some strategies on how to get more time with the offer:

Be transparent - you want to finish the process with all companies (And it's not about the particular company. For example, Bain was giving me an Intern Role while McKinsey gave me a Senior Analyst)
Ask for the time without explanation and if there is an urgency ask back why is the urgency
Time to learn more from employees: Given with what I've seen so far I am happy to sign the offer but I might need some more time to talk to people, visit the office and learn more about the company
Contract - Need time to check the contract details (it's not just about salary but also you can't have equity ownership as a consultant and you need to sell your businesses)
Refer to feelings - you can say that you don't feel comfortable making a fast decision and need some time to reflect
Family reasons - Need time to discuss with the partner

Best!

Answer 2

Agree with everything Vlad wrote (as is often the case), but don't forget to also do what's right for you. Ultimately, it is your career and BCG will look much better than ATK on your resume. Be honest and fair to all parties, but don't forget your employer will always* chose the company over you

* "Always" is an exageration, but everyone understand what I mean.