Signed Contract For New Job, But Now Been Offered A Better One

[buffymad]

What happens if you've signed a contract for a new job (not to start until April), but then a few days later, you're offered another job which you like more and has more prospects (and before anyone says anything, "new" job offer plus interview came out of the blue!)? If you haven't actually started with the company you've signed the contract with, I'm assuming no notice (as such) needs to be given, other than just letting them know you're no longer taking up their offer (and to apologise for the inconvenience etc)?

The person involved hasn't been in this situation before and neither have I so looking for advice!

Thanks.

[barry1010]

From a legal point of view a valid contract has been made and the notice period should be served.
Realistically the employer is unlikely to enforce this as time and effort will be wasted inducting the new employee and there is always the potential for an employee to gain confidential information such as a client list that could be used in the other employment.

Your friend should telephone or email the company explaining the situation immediately and follow it up with a formal letter.

[buffymad]

Barry1010 - thank you.

[johnk]

Good answer Barry

[bobbinwales]

If there's a notice period of say a month maybe you could send itnow

[buffymad]

Bobbinwales - it's just a week for the probationary period