As the economy has continued to worsen more and more IT pros have been hit by the reduction in force, downsizing or outsourcing bug that has again stricken corporate America.

On the positive side we see many opportunities out there and short stints on the unemployment line for most candidates as long as they are flexible to the shifting market (dollars & relocation are the biggies).

However, with such high activity comes a problem once you finally receive an offer. How to professionally pull the plug the process, extricate yourself from the other interviews and notify the other companies (& recruiters) of your decision? Because from this point on your actions will speak louder than words to your future employer and the bridge you’re just beginning to build is the most important one in this process.

Most candidates make the assumption that everyone will think less of them should they turn down other options or cancel interviews when, in reality, that couldn’t be further from the truth. When recruiters and companies are interviewing an unemployed candidate they understand that they have a short shelf life and could opt out of the process at anytime in order to secure a next position. However, it is ideal that you are upfront with everyone throughout the process letting them know both of your high interest in them, but also your continued pursuit of other options as there are no guarantees. Companies and recruiter respect and understand that and in the case of recruiters will simply continue to monitor your interest in their client as well as the advancement of your other opportunities to ensure timely completion of interviews.

So when the job that you want is offered and the salary and bennies are acceptable go ahead and take it. Make the commitment to your new employer and in the most professional way pick up the phone and contact your other leads to let them know that your appreciated their interest, but at this time you’ve secured your next career opportunity and are letting them know that you are no longer on the market.

It’s just that easy. Really!

Read more at The Voice of IT