Before signing the dotted line

What is someone committing to when they sign a conditional offer letter?

I’ve been given three different offers. All of them require a signature sometime this week.

These companies are also in a hurry to get me started right away. I definitely need to give two weeks notice where I’m at and prefer not to be tied up thanksgiving week if this is the last I’ll get to enjoy what’s left of my family for awhile.

Also don’t want to sell myself short. I prefer to stick with a company that treats fairly, rather than move from a mediocre one as soon as it’s possible.

Will they tell me I have to start whenever they tell me to and I have no say in the matter? What if I change my mind about that company? Will I burn bridges? What if another company is of interest? Will signing a conditional offer say I was employed then quit or terminated on my permanent record?

 

“Truck company received your app. Based on the app we are pleased to inform you that you have passed the initial screening process.

Accordingly, this letter serves as a conditional offer of employment and to continue on your career path as a Company driver after you've successfully completed
your academy courses. Please note your application will be continuously reviewed
during this process until the point of receiving a driver code. Be advised that attendance at the academy does not guarantee employment with Trucking Company. Your conditional offer of employment is contingent upon the following DOT and pre-employment
screening requirements:

Successful completion of the academy, including, but not limited to, obtaining your CDL-A

Successful completion of a background check investigation

Pass both a urinalysis and hair test drug screen

Pass the DOT Physical. Provide all DOT waivers

Sleep Apnea Screening
Provide CPAP Compliance Print-out (If previously diagnosed with Sleep Apnea)

Pass a Road Test


You will receive a one-time payment if you complete DQP and Trucking Company assigns a driver code identifying you as a Schwift driver.

 

Yeah I think the recruiter used the wrong template. I’ve already just finished school and hold my CDL. I just need two day orientation. It’s not really a contract but employment offer, and essentially once it’s signed your officially an “employee” (but not really) and what ever happens from that point goes on your permanent employment record.

 

Well that may or may not be intentional, I’ve never been one to share actual communications or leak too much info. But yeah if you get the idea, the other companies pretty much say the same thing. I just wanna make sure I’m not committed to anything right away. Such as “alright you accepted so you are now at our mercy”

 

I was considered an “employee” even at a non-affiliated driving school I paid out of pocket for. And I’ve heard other people become “employees” even when they haven’t started orientation yet and the next employer can see that. I don’t underestimate the data they keep on applicants or drivers. So I’m just trying to comprehend this and be as wise as possible.