While it may not happen every day, when a candidate accepts a role and then withdraws after signing their contract, it can create significant disruption for both the employer and the recruiter.

So! We wanted to shed some light on what actually happens behind the scenes once an offer is accepted.

Accepting a new role isn’t just about signing on the dotted line. By the time a contract lands in your inbox, there’s already been hours of work happening behind the scenes!
Your salary has been negotiated. Payroll is preparing your details. IT is organising your email, software, licences and logins. Equipment is being ordered. Your desk is being set up. Induction plans are being prepared. Teams have been notified that you’re joining, and in some cases, company vehicles, phones or other resources have already been arranged.

And that’s just on the employer’s side.

Recruiters have also invested significant time interviewing you, coordinating feedback, negotiating offers, managing paperwork and guiding both parties through the process.

That’s why it’s important to be certain before you accept an offer and sign an employment contract. Of course, circumstances can change, and sometimes unexpected opportunities arise. But accepting a role without being committed, or continuing to shop around after signing, creates unnecessary disruption for everyone involved.

It can:
– Delay projects and hiring plans.
– Cost businesses time and money.
– Damage the relationship you’ve built with the employer and recruiter.
– Leave the impression that you’re unreliable or unprofessional.

If you’re unsure about a role, ask the questions before you sign, as being fully transparent with your recruiter goes a long way.