Reneging on Job Offer After Accepting.

• Position: EMPLOYMENT

Employers take note: the hiring process does not necessarily end when a candidate accepts the offer, shows research from global staffing firm Robert Half, Menlo Park, Calif. In a survey, 28% of workers say they have backed out of an offer after initially saying yes.

"Having cold feet is understandable; ghosting an employer is unacceptable," says Paul McDonald, senior executive director for Robert Half. "Even though it may seem easier to avoid an awkward situation, transparency is always the best policy during a job search. If you have a change of heart after accepting a position, be honest with the hiring manager."

McDonald points out that how candidates handle such situations can affect their career prospects. "Explaining you changed your mind about a job offer won't be good news to hear, but the employer will appreciate your communication and candor. If you handle the situation unprofessionally, however, it can reflect negatively on you personally and follow you in future job...