Stuck Between Job Offers: How to Handle a Non-Responsive HR and a Strict Notice Period?

Hi All, I received an offer letter from a company that wants me to join in 1 month's time. However, my current employer has a notice period of 2 months. After discussing with my current employer, they are not allowing me to buy out of the notice period. I have communicated this issue to the new company's HR department, requesting them to kindly extend the joining date. Unfortunately, they are currently not responding to anything, and my background verification is still being conducted by the new employer.

What should I do?

Understanding the Buyout Option

You need to be very clear that the buyout option can be exercised only if the employer agrees; otherwise, there is no legal option other than to serve the notice period. You have to either persuade your current employer for that or follow up with the new employer to postpone the date of joining. Jumping the notice period and joining the new employer without being relieved is a risky proposition and has a lot of consequences, so it is not recommended for consideration.

Hi Saswata Banerjee, a new employer can extend the joining date if they genuinely want to hire someone rather than just to show hiring on paper. These days, employers are acting very strategically. I have my own company with a 2-month notice period, yet they want candidates to join within 30 days. It reflects a concerning culture.