OMG! I've got multiple offers

This story isn't going to impress you if you're unemployed and struggling to get a solitary interview, but (like it or not) multiple offers are on the increase, especially in the front office.

"We have started to see financial services professionals have more than one offer on their plate and this has also coincided with a steady increase in counter offers - all signs that the war for talent is hotting up," says Blaise Habgood, business development manager, banking & financial services, Randstad.

Jane McNeill, senior regional director, Hays Banking, adds: "It's been a very recent trend that is only just now appearing once more for the top talent. It's in direct correlation with the market's improvement, when from Christmas 2009 hiring activity picked up very dramatically," comments Jane McNeill, senior regional director, Hays Banking.

She adds that client-facing professionals are more likely to find themselves with two or more job opportunities. "On the senior side, it's predominantly for senior relationship manager and business development manager roles in corporate or institutional banking. It's also evident at the junior level in assistant RM roles and mortgage support," says McNeill.

The re-emergence of multiple offers is one of the factors that will push up salaries in the banking sector this year, says Habgood. "I would expect there will be a steady increase until perhaps Q4, when the market will settle down back into a more normal routine."

But candidates who are lucky enough to have multiple offers shouldn't always base their decision on salary.

"Consider your career progression rather than chasing immediate money. It's perfectly acceptable to go back to both parties and ask for more details on the career path and development you are likely to receive. You can openly discuss both options with your recruiter without jeopardising either offer," advises McNeill.