Rescinding job offers: Can they sue for damages?.

A sure sign that the economy is heading into a recession is the number of companies rescinding previous "dream job" offers.

In one case, an individual claimed on LinkedIn that they had been given a company laptop and were due to start work in a few days, only to have the offer axed.

It's no surprise that 50% of firms are anticipating a reduction in overall headcount, while 52% foresee instituting a hiring freeze and 44% are rescinding job offers, according to a PwC survey of 722 U.S. executives fielded in early August.

If the employer offered someone a job, and he or she accepted, resigned from their former position and moved to be able to go to work for the new employer, they might be able to make a court claim. The potential employer made a promise and ultimately broke it, causing serious professional, financial and overall well-being consequences for the candidate.

It's wise to anticipate the legal landmines when writing a job offer letter. Explicitly state it's not a contract. Don't guarantee employment. Add that the offer is conditional on meeting requirements for the position.

If there is no alternative but to rescind an offer, here are four things to remember to stave off a lawsuit: 1. Put it in writing. Draft a letter that includes the company's name, job position, HR...