Finding the right words when navigating professional conversations, especially those that involve career transitions, can be tricky. When you need to let your boss know that you’ve received another job offer, it’s crucial to express yourself in a way that maintains respect, professionalism, and care.
Choosing the right phrasing can make the conversation feel more personal, thoughtful, and positive. Here are 30 thoughtful ways to tell your boss you’ve received another job offer, each designed to preserve your relationship and express your decision with tact.
What Does “Telling Your Boss You Got Another Job Offer” Mean?
Telling your boss that you’ve received another job offer means you are informing them about an opportunity you’ve been presented with outside your current employment.
This is often a sensitive subject, as it can impact the dynamic of your working relationship. It’s important to approach this conversation with professionalism and care, ensuring that you express your decision in a respectful and considerate manner.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say You’ve Got Another Job Offer?
Yes, it can be both professional and polite to let your boss know that you’ve received another job offer. However, the key is how you communicate this information. Being transparent without sounding too abrupt or ungrateful for your current position is essential.
It’s important to maintain a tone of appreciation for the opportunities you’ve had in your current role and approach the situation with empathy.
1. “I’ve Recently Received Another Job Offer”
Meaning: You’re informing your boss that you’ve been offered another role outside the company.
Explanation: This phrasing is straightforward and professional. It shows that you’ve been approached for an opportunity, but you’re not immediately implying that you’ve made a decision yet.
Scenario Example: “I wanted to have an open conversation with you. I’ve recently received another job offer, and I’d like to discuss my options moving forward.”
Best Use: When you want to keep things clear and open.
Not Use: If you’re still unsure about leaving and need time to make a decision, avoid being too blunt.
2. “I’ve Been Offered Another Position”
Meaning: You’re disclosing that you’ve been presented with an opportunity elsewhere.
Explanation: This phrase is polite and can lead into a discussion about your current role and potential future with the company.
Scenario Example: “I wanted to let you know that I’ve been offered another position and am taking time to consider what’s best for my career.”
Best Use: When you need to share the information but still want to be considerate about the decision-making process.
Not Use: If you’re certain you want to leave and the situation feels final.
3. “Another Company Has Extended a Job Offer to Me”
Meaning: You’re communicating that another organization has made an offer for a different role.
Explanation: This phrasing is slightly more formal and professional, giving an air of respect for your current employer’s position.
Scenario Example: “I just wanted to keep you in the loop—another company has extended a job offer to me, and I’m weighing my options.”
Best Use: When you are still in the decision phase and want to be respectful.
Not Use: If you have already decided to leave.
4. “I’ve Received a Job Offer from Another Employer”
Meaning: You’re telling your boss that another company has made a formal offer to you.
Explanation: This communicates that the offer is official but still leaves room for further discussion or negotiation.
Scenario Example: “I’ve received a job offer from another employer and wanted to discuss what this means for my future with the team.”
Best Use: When you want to keep the door open for a constructive conversation.
Not Use: If you’re not ready to discuss your future with the company.
5. “I’m Considering Another Job Opportunity”
Meaning: You’re telling your boss that you’ve been presented with another option, but you’re still considering it.
Explanation: This makes the conversation feel less final, indicating that you’re still exploring what’s best for your career.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been considering another job opportunity, and I thought it was important to have an open conversation with you about my thoughts.”
Best Use: When you’re still deciding and want to keep the conversation friendly and open.
Not Use: If you’ve already made a decision to leave.
6. “I’ve Been Approached by Another Company with a Job Offer”
Meaning: You’re informing your boss that another company has made a formal offer.
Explanation: This approach is somewhat indirect, allowing you to share that the offer is from an outside company without directly saying you’ve received it.
Scenario Example: “I wanted to discuss something important—I’ve been approached by another company with a job offer and would like to explore my options.”
Best Use: When you want to keep things professional and nuanced.
Not Use: If you are ready to give your notice or leave soon.
7. “I’ve Been Offered a Position Elsewhere”
Meaning: You’re telling your boss you’ve received a job offer from another company.
Explanation: This phrasing conveys your intentions in a simple, direct way but leaves space for future discussion.
Scenario Example: “I wanted to share that I’ve been offered a position elsewhere, and I’m in the process of deciding what’s best for me.”
Best Use: When you want to keep things respectful but clear.
Not Use: If you’re not comfortable revealing the offer yet.
8. “I’ve Got an Offer on the Table from Another Organization”
Meaning: This means you’ve received an offer, but you’re not implying an immediate decision.
Explanation: This wording subtly communicates that the offer is available, but you’re not rushing to make a decision.
Scenario Example: “I’ve got an offer on the table from another organization, and I’d love to have a conversation about my next steps.”
Best Use: When you want to present the situation thoughtfully and leave room for negotiation.
Not Use: If the conversation is urgent and you’ve made a decision already.
9. “Another Employer Has Expressed Interest in Hiring Me”
Meaning: You’re letting your boss know that another company is interested in you for a role.
Explanation: This softer approach conveys that you’re still being pursued, but it doesn’t come across as demanding.
Scenario Example: “I wanted to inform you that another employer has expressed interest in hiring me and I’d like to explore my options.”
Best Use: When you want to avoid sounding too direct but still share important information.
Not Use: If you’ve already made up your mind to leave.
10. “I’ve Had a Job Offer Extended to Me”
Meaning: You’re telling your boss that an offer has already been made to you.
Explanation: This phrasing makes it clear that the opportunity is real and formal, without saying you’ve made a decision.
Scenario Example: “I wanted to keep you informed—I’ve had a job offer extended to me, and I’m considering my options.”
Best Use: When you need to share the information professionally but with room for further discussion.
Not Use: If you’ve already decided to leave the company.
11. “I’ve Been Exploring Other Opportunities and Received an Offer”
Meaning: You’ve been actively seeking other roles and one of them has led to an offer.
Explanation: This phrase shows you’re taking initiative in your career, and now you’ve reached a pivotal point.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been exploring other opportunities recently and received an offer I’m considering seriously.”
Best Use: When you want to be transparent about your career direction.
Not Use: If you haven’t actually been exploring or received an offer.
12. “I Wanted to Inform You I’ve Been Offered Another Role”
Meaning: A formal yet personal way to share your news.
Explanation: This conveys maturity and shows you’re being responsible by informing your boss directly.
Scenario Example: “I wanted to inform you I’ve been offered another role, and I thought it was important to speak with you about it first.”
Best Use: When you value your boss’s leadership and want to communicate openly.
Not Use: If your boss is likely to respond poorly to upfront communication without context.
13. “I’ve Been Given a New Job Offer to Consider”
Meaning: You’ve received an offer and are currently evaluating it.
Explanation: This helps frame the situation as a decision-making process rather than a done deal.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been given a new job offer to consider and wanted to keep you updated before making any moves.”
Best Use: When you want to show you value your current employer’s trust.
Not Use: If you’ve already accepted the offer elsewhere.
14. “I’m in Discussions About Another Job Offer”
Meaning: You’re in the process of considering an offer.
Explanation: You’re letting your boss know early without sounding definite.
Scenario Example: “I’m in discussions about another job offer and wanted to be honest with you as things progress.”
Best Use: When you want to stay transparent during negotiations.
Not Use: If you haven’t actually received any formal offer.
15. “I’ve Received an Opportunity That Could Be a Big Step Forward”
Meaning: You’re positioning the job offer as a growth move.
Explanation: This shows you’re thinking long-term about your career and not just job-hopping.
Scenario Example: “I’ve received an opportunity that could be a big step forward professionally, and I’d appreciate your thoughts.”
Best Use: When you’re seeking support or advice from your boss.
Not Use: If your boss might interpret this as a dig at your current position.
16. “A New Career Opportunity Has Been Presented to Me”
Meaning: A polished, respectful way to say you’ve been offered a job.
Explanation: This elegant phrasing softens the impact and makes it clear you’re thinking carefully.
Scenario Example: “A new career opportunity has been presented to me, and I want to be upfront with you about it.”
Best Use: In formal work environments or with senior-level managers.
Not Use: If you need to be more direct due to urgency.
17. “I’ve Been Contacted with a Promising Job Offer”
Meaning: You’ve been approached by another company and are taking the offer seriously.
Explanation: This shows you were sought after, which can help frame your value without sounding boastful.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been contacted with a promising job offer and thought it was right to let you know.”
Best Use: When you’ve built a strong, honest relationship with your boss.
Not Use: If the offer is still in its early stages or not certain.
18. “A Position That Aligns with My Career Goals Was Offered to Me”
Meaning: You’ve found an opportunity that fits your long-term vision.
Explanation: This gives context and highlights personal development rather than dissatisfaction.
Scenario Example: “A position that aligns with my career goals was offered to me, and I’m currently evaluating it.”
Best Use: When your current boss values your growth.
Not Use: If you don’t want to go into detail about your career goals.
19. “I’ve Been Given the Chance to Take on a New Challenge”
Meaning: You’re excited about the opportunity and what it could mean for your career.
Explanation: This frames your job offer positively without placing blame on your current job.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been given the chance to take on a new challenge, and I’d like to have an open discussion with you about it.”
Best Use: When you want to maintain enthusiasm and professionalism.
Not Use: If you’re leaving due to negative reasons.
20. “A Company I’ve Been in Touch With Has Made Me an Offer”
Meaning: A polite way to share that you’ve been speaking with another employer and they’ve extended an offer.
Explanation: This keeps the conversation grounded and honest.
Scenario Example: “A company I’ve been in touch with has made me an offer. I felt it was right to bring it up with you first.”
Best Use: When honesty is highly valued in your workplace culture.
Not Use: If you’re worried your boss might take the conversation personally or negatively.
21. “I’ve Been Presented With a Role That’s a Strong Match for My Skills”
Meaning: You’ve found a new job that aligns well with your expertise.
Explanation: This shows you’re thinking strategically about your career progression.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been presented with a role that’s a strong match for my skills, and I’m currently reviewing it carefully.”
Best Use: When your boss respects personal development and growth.
Not Use: If you haven’t fully evaluated the new opportunity yet.
22. “An External Offer Has Come My Way”
Meaning: A new job offer from outside the company has been made to you.
Explanation: This neutral and mature phrasing helps you deliver your message without sounding impulsive.
Scenario Example: “An external offer has come my way, and I want to take some time to consider all my options thoughtfully.”
Best Use: When you want to inform your boss but still leave room for thoughtful discussion.
Not Use: If the offer is already accepted or you’re about to give notice.
23. “I’ve Received an Attractive Offer From Another Company”
Meaning: You’re communicating that the offer you received is appealing and worth considering.
Explanation: It opens the door to a professional conversation without immediately committing to leaving.
Scenario Example: “I’ve received an attractive offer from another company, and I’d appreciate your insights before I make a decision.”
Best Use: When you’re open to counteroffers or advice.
Not Use: If you’ve already made a firm decision to leave.
24. “Another Organization Has Extended a Compelling Opportunity to Me”
Meaning: You’re sharing that a different employer has made you a meaningful offer.
Explanation: The word “compelling” suggests that you’re carefully considering the benefits and how they align with your goals.
Scenario Example: “Another organization has extended a compelling opportunity to me, and I’m taking the time to explore it thoroughly.”
Best Use: When you want to sound thoughtful and not hasty.
Not Use: If the new offer doesn’t truly align with your interests.
25. “A New Opportunity Has Recently Been Offered to Me”
Meaning: You’re conveying that this is a fresh development.
Explanation: This phrasing helps you signal that you’re still early in the decision-making process.
Scenario Example: “A new opportunity has recently been offered to me, and I felt it was best to share it with you early on.”
Best Use: If you’re still uncertain about accepting the offer.
Not Use: If the offer is already finalized and you’re resigning.
26. “I’ve Been Given an Opportunity That I’m Strongly Considering”
Meaning: You’ve received an offer and it’s seriously under review.
Explanation: This lets your boss know that while you haven’t made a final decision, it’s a serious one.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been given an opportunity that I’m strongly considering and thought it would be fair to keep you informed.”
Best Use: When you want to signal that your decision is imminent but not confirmed.
Not Use: If you’re still unsure and don’t want to spark alarm.
27. “A Career Option Has Opened Up for Me”
Meaning: A vague yet tactful way to introduce the subject.
Explanation: This phrasing allows for a gentle start to the conversation without immediately diving into the specifics.
Scenario Example: “A career option has opened up for me recently, and I’m exploring where it could lead.”
Best Use: In very early stages or when your relationship with your boss is more informal.
Not Use: If you need to be transparent about a formal offer already received.
28. “I’m Currently Evaluating a Job Offer I’ve Received”
Meaning: You’re clearly stating that a formal offer is on the table and under consideration.
Explanation: Direct, yet thoughtful, this phrasing invites open dialogue.
Scenario Example: “I’m currently evaluating a job offer I’ve received and thought it would be respectful to keep you in the loop.”
Best Use: When your boss appreciates transparency and open communication.
Not Use: If you haven’t received an actual offer yet.
29. “A Potential Career Shift Has Been Offered to Me”
Meaning: A new opportunity could mean a significant change in your career direction.
Explanation: This wording emphasizes the growth potential rather than focusing on leaving your current job.
Scenario Example: “A potential career shift has been offered to me, and I’d like to talk through what that might mean with you.”
Best Use: When the offer represents a meaningful pivot.
Not Use: If you’re simply switching companies without much change in your role.
30. “I’ve Been Given a Job Offer That Requires Careful Thought”
Meaning: A respectful way to say you’re considering a serious offer.
Explanation: This highlights your desire to think things through without rushing or showing dissatisfaction.
Scenario Example: “I’ve been given a job offer that requires careful thought, and I wanted to talk to you about it before deciding.”
Best Use: When your boss values open, thoughtful decision-making.
Not Use: If the offer has already been accepted and you’re delivering notice.
Conclusion
Having “the talk” with your boss about another job offer doesn’t have to be intimidating or cold. In fact, it can be an opportunity to show your maturity, thoughtfulness, and respect for the professional relationship you’ve built.
When you lead with clarity, empathy, and appreciation, you preserve your reputation and maintain valuable bridges—even as you cross into a new chapter. Whether you’re still deciding or ready to make a move, using the right words will help you navigate the situation with grace and strength.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Should I tell my boss if I’m considering another job offer?
Yes, if you’ve received a formal offer and are seriously considering it, it’s both professional and respectful to keep your boss informed.
2. How do I start the conversation?
Begin with appreciation for your current role, then gently transition into the fact that you’ve received another opportunity and are evaluating it carefully.
3. What if I’m not sure whether I’ll take the offer?
That’s okay! You can frame it as something you’re still considering. Transparency, even during uncertainty, shows character.
4. Can telling my boss help me get a counteroffer?
Possibly. If your employer values you and believes you’re essential to the team, they may offer better terms to encourage you to stay.
5. What’s the biggest mistake to avoid?
Avoid sounding ungrateful or too eager to leave. Even if you’re excited, keeping the tone respectful and grounded will ensure a smoother transition, no matter the outcome.
