Backing out of a job - Need advice asap!

[Anonymous]

I verbally accepted a job back in early August. I got nervous due to lack if communication on there end. I started looking but not seriously. I got an offer from a family I babysat for last week. The problem is I sign the contract for the former job tonight. It start Sep. 12 with a transition days next week. I didn't want to back out earlier in fear that I may not get another job but now I have an offer I really want. I did like these people but the lapse in communication for up to a week to plan and sign the contract has left a bad taste in my mouth. I feel very bad because it's last minute but I don't think it would be fair to work and give two weeks notice right away to take this job. What would you do? I don't know if I should just take this job and turn down the new offer.

[Anonymous]

Please help!

[Anonymous]

Go with your gut. You're going to have an uncomfortable conversation either way so go with the job your intuition tells you is best.

[Anonymous]

I'm not clear on whether you've already signed the contract?

If you haven't, then just say you're very sorry but you're no longer able to commit.

If you have signed then that's a larger moral issue.

[Anonymous]

Even if you have already signed the contract w/the first family, you can always back out.

It's not like they can sue you in a court of law & order you to be their employee or force you to pay them lost wages due to having no childcare.

Ethically you shouldn't have signed something knowing you preferred another job offer.

Yes you are in a bind now, but to go w/the first family due to feeling obligated does not bode well for ANYONE.

Tell them ASAP how you feel about the communication issues + that it really bothered you.

Then accept the job w/the second family.

Hopefully you have learned a life lesson for later on, that it is important to speak up when needed and to never promise something you cannot deliver.

Good luck going forward.

[Anonymous]

Don't tell them about the communication issues. Just tell them that you were offered another position from a family you have worked for in the past and for various reasons you have decided to accept their offer. Then, IF you want to and have the time available, you can offer to help cover childcare while they search for a new nanny. IF you do that, be sure to be clear on your precise availability. Go with your gut and go with the most money.

[Anonymous]

Op here. I didn't sign a contract. I was suppose to but they didn't get in touch with me for a week to set something up.

[Anonymous]

MB here. If you did not sign a contract, it is a bit easier. Just be honest and say you got another job offer. Be professional as possible. I had a nanny back-out AFTER signing a contract and 1 week before the start date. I was so mad and devastated BUT I ended up with the best nanny ever - four years and counting! GO WITH YOUR GUT!