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Episode Description
Every HR professional and small business owner dreads that moment: you've extended a job offer to your perfect candidate, only to discover you need to take it back. Whether it's an unexpected budget freeze, a failed reference check, or a genuine business restructuring, withdrawing job offers presents significant legal risks that can cost your business dearly.
This episode breaks down the critical distinction between conditional and unconditional offers that forms the foundation of your legal protection. We explore exactly when a job offer becomes a binding contract, what compensation you might owe when withdrawing offers, and how discrimination claims can arise during the process. Through real-world case studies – from the company that saved itself with a £1,800 goodwill payment to the retailer hit with a £27,000 discrimination award – we demonstrate the practical consequences of handling these situations improperly.
You'll learn specific, actionable strategies for creating safer job offers with appropriate conditions, the exact documentation you need to maintain, and a step-by-step playbook for withdrawing offers professionally when necessary. We debunk common myths surrounding verbal offers, pre-start withdrawals, and discrimination risks. The Q&A section tackles real scenarios including budget cuts, probation failures, and problematic references. Whether you're an experienced HR professional or a small business owner handling hiring yourself, this episode provides the framework you need to navigate this challenging aspect of employment law with confidence.
Ready to protect your business from costly tribunals while maintaining your reputation as a fair employer? Subscribe now, leave a review, and email your toughest HR questions to buzz@kateunderwoodhr.co.uk for future episodes.
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