What is a conditional job offer?

You’ve received a new job offer—congrats! But the written offer outlines several conditions that need to be met in order to make the offer official. Don’t panic—a conditional job offer is not a bad sign, it’s a common practice among employers meant to protect them and their existing employees. If you’ve received a conditional job offer and you’re curious about what it means, consider what we we’ve outlined in the article below: 

Why would an employer give you a conditional offer of employment? 

It’s not uncommon for an employer to present a conditional job offer to their preferred candidate. Most job offers are conditional to some degree—their likelihood depends on your industry, the job type, and any qualifications that are required to do the job. 

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A conditional job offer grants an employer the opportunity to keep the hiring process moving quickly while they check on a few things before you start the new job. It can help kickoff the onboarding process, even if a few requirements need to be met before the start date. In most situations, employers prefer to present a conditional job offer so they can secure their top candidate—and you can give your two weeks notice to your current employer and make preparations for the new job.

What factors can be included in a conditional job offer? 

There are a variety of factors that can be included in a conditional job offer. And while some job offers may just focus on one conditional piece, many offers require several of these conditions: 

Passing a background check

This is a common condition for most job offers today. Job offers that require you to pass a background check are likely looking for two things. 

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First, did you disclose anything that may come up in a background check (for example, do you have anything on your record that will show up in a formal background check? If so, it’s a good idea to let the recruiter or hiring manager know before they are surprised with it in a formal report). 

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And second, do you have anything that will show up in your background check that might be a cause for concern for the business or the employees you will be working with in the new role. If your name doesn’t match the background check, if your education or employment history is incorrect, or you have a criminal history, your background check will help throw up red flags for the employer.

Confirming your education credentials

Employers are interested in hiring qualified, trustworthy candidates. To confirm this, they often check into the education credentials that you’ve listed on your resume and in your application for the job. This condition can be met by providing proof of education with transcripts or a diploma. In some cases, employers may call the university where you attended to confirm that you attended and received your degree. 

Completing certifications before a specific date

If the open role requires specific certifications in order to be qualified for the job, employers may offer the job with the condition that you complete the certifications before a specific date (usually before day one of the new job). In these scenarios, the job offer will be presented with this specific condition and then you will likely need to present proof that you’ve completed the certifications (this can be done with a certification completion email or actual certificate). 

Passing a drug test

Many employers require that every candidate pass a drug test before they can officially start their new job. In these situations, you may receive a conditional job offer with a few options on where you can complete the drug test requirement. These tests are often done at a medical facility, but some are completed at the employer’s office (especially if they have an ongoing requirement to test for drugs among employees).

Showing proof of relocation 

While many jobs today are touted as work from home or offer a hybrid schedule, some may require you to live within a certain state (for tax purposes) or require you to move to a new state so you can come into the office full time or on occasion. For tax purposes or in situations where the company has paid you a relocation fee as part of your job offer, they may require you to show proof of relocation. A rental agreement, utility bill, or new driver’s license can help fulfill this request. 

Should you be worried if you receive a conditional job offer?

No, just because an offer is presented with conditions, you don’t need to be worried. For many employers, these conditions help protect them and their employees as they open up roles to new candidates. Hiring someone who can’t pass a background check or a drug test could result in a large liability for the business. Establishing these conditions just ensures that the business is protected. For most jobs in today’s world, expect a conditional job offer.

Can a conditional job offer be rescinded? 

Yes, a conditional job offer is just as it sounds—it’s conditional. Because the job offer is conditional, it can easily be rescinded by the employer if you don’t meet the conditions outlined in the written offer. 

What is the most common timeframe for a conditional job offer?

The timeframe for conditional job offers varies based on the factors that are listed in the written offer. For drug tests, you may be required to complete the requirement within 30 - 90 days (in some cases, this can be after you start the job). Other conditions—like a background check or proof of relocation—are likely to be required before you start the job and typically take 10 - 14 days. 

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Need more resources? Check out these links:

4 ways to ask for more money on a job offer

8 steps on how to accept a job offer

7 signs you will get the job after an interview

‍Should you always negotiate salary?

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