Question:
I started a small business last year and am about to hire my first employee. I interviewed several candidates and picked one. I was totally excited when called the applicant I liked best and offered him the job.
But when I said, “Would you like to come to work for me,” he said, “I think so, but I want to see your offer letter first.” His response really set me back. I had already told him in the interview what I could afford to pay. His comment made me feel like he might want to work for me. I said, “Sure,” but now I’m not sure I want to hire him. Also, if I put something on paper, does it bind me?
Answer:
One of two things may be true. He may want an offer letter to confirm what you’ve already told him. An offer letter names the employer, position, start date and compensation, along with an at-will statement. While an on-paper offer confirms what you’re taking him on as an employee for a certain compensation, the employment “at-will” statements means it you can terminate the employment relationship for any reason or no reason at all, other than an illegal one.
Alternatively, most applicants apply for multiple jobs, often without knowing the compensation involved. When they receive an offer they have to decide whether it’s the one job they most want or whether they should hold out for one of the others they interviewed for. Your reaction provides a great example of how that makes an employer feel when he excitedly calls the selected applicant and the candidate doesn’t promptly say “yes.” Occasionally this “I need more time” leads employers to withdraw their offers.
Before making an assumption, call your applicant and ask – “is my job the one you want?”
© 2018, Lynne Curry
Lynne Curry writes a weekly column on workplace issues. She is author of “Solutions” and “Beating the Workplace Bully” and founded The Growth Company, an Avitus company. Curry is now a Regional Director of Training and Business Consulting at Avitus Group. Send your questions to her at Lcurry@avitusgroup.com, follow her on twitter @lynnecurry10 or at www.workplacecoachblog.com.
