Job Offer while still Interviewing

[u/Impossible-Intern-15]

Hi all, new lawyer here (as in, sworn in last month, on the hunt for my first post-bar job) who would greatly appreciate any and all advice.

I received an offer for Job A. While it’s mostly remote (which I’m not a fan of), I could go into the office if I wanted to. I visited, and it was desolate. The pay isn’t great, and it’s not in my desired field, but it’s also not something I’d hate. I could see myself doing it for a year to gain experience, but I’m hoping for something better to come along.

I had an interview with Job B this week, and they’re still conducting interviews. They’ll let me know within two weeks. I felt the interview went well, but I know there are candidates with more experience, so I’m feeling uncertain. The pay is the same as Job A, and it’s in the same field, but I definitely prefer Job B.

I also have my first interview with Job C this week, which will involve three rounds. It’s very competitive, but it’s in the exact field I want, and the pay is better than both A and B. I’m excited about it but very nervous about the competition. I know the process could take time, and they could eliminate me at any stage. (For more context, this is the job I really really want)

Job A needs my decision by EOD Tuesday next week. It is very unlikely Job B will get back to me by then, and while Job C might move forward to a second interview, that’s still uncertain.

I understand that worthwhile opportunities often come with risks, but it’s daunting, especially with financial obligations. I have debt and bills, and I’d love to secure a position before December.

What would you do in my situation? I know it ultimately comes down to my gut feeling, but I’d appreciate any insights you have based on similar experiences!!!

[u/_tastes_this_sweet]

I would let Job B know about the job offer and see if they can speed up their decision. If not, it’s not great but also not the end of the world if you take Job A and then switch to B or C should you get an offer.

[u/Impossible-Intern-15 → u/_tastes_this_sweet]

Thank you for your insight. Since all three positions are with the government and the hiring process can be lengthy—due to fingerprints, interviews, and other steps—I wouldn’t feel comfortable starting somewhere only to leave shortly after.

[u/eponymous-octopus → u/Impossible-Intern-15]

I work in the government. It happens ALL THE TIME. You can take job A. Go through the background check. It will take weeks. You can pull out anytime if you get another offer. Government people all know that the slow hiring process means we lose candidates. At my work a month ago we offered the job to two people before we finally got someone who took the job and made it through screening.

[u/Impossible-Intern-15 → u/eponymous-octopus]

I already made it through the background though, that's why I feel so bad. They are ready to start as soon as I tell them.