So...I got two interviews at the same place but in different areas.

[bellefast]

I should give background. I did not get a GA through my department. I was angry at first but I realized all things happen for a reason. So I still accepted. I applied to these jobs because I do like what they are doing at the school and they both are in the same place. I applied to both because they are competitve and thought surely that I would only get one interview. Well I got two. I have to think ahead because I might get them both (I refuse to sabotage one my interviews) I did one them today and I enjoyed it and I have not did the other. Since there are no decisions made yet (though I hope I get one of them) if I was to get both jobs, how do I turn down one nicely and not mess a relationship up with people I might have to work with? What should I say? How should I go about it? I just do not want to seem like I was taking them for granted and I wanted to make sure I have a chance to work for one of them and have more chances for monetary and professional purposes.

Thank you all for your help

Edited April 27, 2012 by bellefast

[Dal PhDer]

Hi!

First- congrats on the two interviews! That's amazing!

Second- I will keep my fingers crossed for you!

Third- I am REALLY bad at saying 'no' ... to the point where I end up being overwhelmed. Quite recently I pulled my big girl boots up and said I had to reject an opportunity with a professor because I was so overwhelmed. Like you, I battled with knowing what the most appropriate and professional way to do it was...but I decided that honestly was the best method. I simply said: Thank you for the offer. I think the opportunity is exciting and interesting, but unfortunately I have to focus on my dissertation at this time.

The professor was pleased that I understood my limits and said she was glad to see students balancing priorities and focusing on school.

I think you would be surprised at how understanding the employer/professor will be. If you apologize and thank them for their time and the opportunity, but stress that the most important thing is not to fill your plate full, then they will understand.

Hope this helps

Cheers

[bellefast]

Hi!

First- congrats on the two interviews! That's amazing!

Second- I will keep my fingers crossed for you!

Third- I am REALLY bad at saying 'no' ... to the point where I end up being overwhelmed. Quite recently I pulled my big girl boots up and said I had to reject an opportunity with a professor because I was so overwhelmed. Like you, I battled with knowing what the most appropriate and professional way to do it was...but I decided that honestly was the best method. I simply said: Thank you for the offer. I think the opportunity is exciting and interesting, but unfortunately I have to focus on my dissertation at this time.

The professor was pleased that I understood my limits and said she was glad to see students balancing priorities and focusing on school.

I think you would be surprised at how understanding the employer/professor will be. If you apologize and thank them for their time and the opportunity, but stress that the most important thing is not to fill your plate full, then they will understand.

Hope this helps

Cheers

Thanks. This does make me feel better. I usually have no problem doing things like this, but this time it is difficult.