How to Decide Between Two Jobs

Think about your career goals

Start by asking yourself where you want to be in two to three years, and if the role you accept will help you build the skills and experience you need to get there.

Think about what you’ll actually learn. Will you get involved in projects that make a difference, or will you spend your time on admin tasks? Is there progression? Will you get a permanent contract at the end of it (for example, as an intern, could you be invited back as a graduate)?

While you won’t know all the answers to these questions, what you ask in your interview will 100% help in making your decision. Here are questions you can ask during an interview. Even post-offer, you have the opportunity to ask what you need to know.

Personal development is everything when choosing a company. As long as you’re learning and growing in your role, the future is bright.

Research the culture and team

Company culture is what your day-to-day will be like. You want to make sure you’re joining a company that’s welcoming, supportive and will look out for you. Here are some super-easy ways of finding out more about company culture:

• Social media. Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn are a great start, as companies will use them to show off everything from Christmas parties to new initiatives and employee profiles.

• News articles and press releases. Industry news outlets (and even mainstream ones) often post updates about companies, including high-profile hirings and client work.

• Company website. You’ll get everything from meet the team pages to news and project pages, too.

Check out our job reviews written by students who’ve actually worked at the companies you’re about to choose. One of the questions we ask students is actually about company culture, and make sure to read any parts about management, workload and skills.

Thinking about a grad scheme with L’Oréal? Here’s what this Marketing Management Trainee felt about their time there:

My experience at L'Oréal has been nothing short of exceptional and truly transformative. From day one, I've been immersed in a dynamic environment that has provided me with invaluable first-hand marketing experience. I've had the incredible opportunity to be directly involved in impactful campaigns and help make data-driven strategies. Additionally, my journey at L'Oréal has been characterised by lots of learning and significant personal and professional growth. Marketing Management Trainee, L’Oréal

If you’re starting a graduate scheme or an internship, see if you can find out how many people will be joining you. Having colleagues in the same boat can make a huge difference in how you settle in.

Create a comparison chart

Write down the pros and cons of each job offer and list what matters to you. Here’s what to compare:

• Development opportunities. What training, mentorship or qualifications will you get?

• Progression. What does moving up in the company actually look like?

• Benefits. Salary’s important, but so is holiday pay, pension contributions, and any other perks that make life easier 

• Work-life balance. How many hours will you be working each day, and will you have to work late often? How does the company feel about flexible working policies? Do they offer hybrid working?

You can even give them a score out of five. Sometimes seeing things on paper can be a huge help.

Trust yourself

Picture yourself in each of these positions and imagine what your average day working for that company would look like. If you’re still undecided about which job offer to go for, follow your instincts.

Read through the job descriptions again. Which role gets you excited and will allow you to showcase your skills and expertise? All these factors should help you in making that final decision.

Remember, your first job doesn’t define your whole career. You’re only taking those first steps, so make your decision based on where you are right now.

Communicate your decision professionally

Once you’ve decided, you’ll need to let both companies know as soon as possible. Having hard conversations isn’t easy, but delaying could make you look unprofessional.

Send an email thanking them for their time and the opportunity, and then let them know that you’ve taken a role elsewhere. You don’t have to go into great detail either, so there’s no need to let them know the whys or even the name of the employer you’ve accepted.

They won’t be mad. In fact, they’ll appreciate your honest response and professionalism. The working world isn’t as huge as you think, and maintaining good relationships now can open doors for you in the future.

For the job you’re accepting, respond with excitement. Remember to confirm the start date and ask for any next steps.

Making this decision is just the beginning. Whatever choice you make, you’re taking a super important step in your career. Trust yourself and make the most of it.

Once you've made that decision, you can start getting ready for the first day of your new role! Hooray! You can plan ahead by reading our guide to your first day at work.