Survey: Job Seekers Receive Multiple Offers

Companies shouldn't assume that their job offer is a candidate's only option, new research suggests.

A survey of workers from global financial recruitment firm Robert Half Finance & Accounting found that 59 percent receive two or more offers simultaneously when applying for jobs.

The competition for talent is tough, and candidates rarely wait long when they receive a great offer. A majority of professionals surveyed (58 percent) reported making their decision in two or fewer days.

The top five reasons job seekers accepted one offer over another are:

• Salary
• Benefits
• Advancement potential
• Commute
• Position's responsibilities or challenges

"Companies hiring today need to know their top candidate is likely someone else's top pick as well," says Steve Saah, executive director of Robert Half Finance & Accounting. "Salary is the number one factor for many professionals looking to make a career move, so employers should put together a compelling compensation package right away. In-demand professionals have options, and you may not have a second chance to make a better offer."

Job seekers in the enviable position of receiving more than one employment offer should keep in mind what prompted their job search in the first place. Was the primary goal a higher salary, greater flexibility or a more manageable commute? Make sure the offer you accept meets those needs,"  Saah says.

Professionals with multiple employment offers on the table can visit the Robert Half blog for tips on how to make the right decision.

The online survey was developed by Robert Half Finance & Accounting and conducted by an independent research firm. It includes responses from more than 1,000 workers 18 years of age or older and employed in office environments in the United States. Founded in 1948, Robert Half Finance & Accounting, a division of Robert Half, has more than 300 locations worldwide.