I have got a postdoc job offer from a reputed University in Applied Mathematics. Now, I have given several postdoc interviews and some interviews are scheduled in the coming days. In such situation can I tell the PI (wherefrom I got the offer) that I have not decided yet as I have some other interviews scheduled in the future. I have heard that accepting multiple offers is not a good thing.
-
Just thank them and tell them you will respond before the deadline in the offer letter.– Anonymous PhysicistJul 22, 2018 at 22:44
-
@AnonymousPhysicist: There is no deadline given. Can I politely ask them ?– applied_mathJul 23, 2018 at 5:36
-
Did you receive a formal offer? Usually these are signed by a high ranking administrator. If not, you might be wise to ask for one. Then you will know what the deadline is.– Anonymous PhysicistJul 23, 2018 at 5:56
1 Answer
I think you are right about not accepting multiple offers. But that isn't the same as not considering multiple offers.
Unless you have a special relationship with the PI you don't actually owe him or her an explanation of why you are waiting. It would, however, do you good if you could give a date, not too far in the future, by which you will let him/her know.
Of course, it is possible that the offer could be withdrawn, rules permitting, but if you wait to accept you can't control that.
I wouldn't probably say I was awaiting other offers, or give a false reason instead. It is enough to say that you aren't yet quite ready to make a decision on such a big step. Yes, that sort of thing is a bit of hedging, but probably called for, since you are actually hedging.
But don't put them off too long.
-
-
I might, rather, put it that you are in discussions with your advisor. You are allowed to keep your reasoning to yourself. The PI is allowed to make independent decision.– BuffyJul 22, 2018 at 16:21