Make sure you know when you need to respond to a job offer. Depending on time of year, most organizations will allow you at least a few weeks, and sometimes even a few months. If that date approaches before you complete interviewing for other positions, you can ask for an extension. But don’t wait until the last minute to request an extension, and provide a date when you will give your final decision.

Example: “Thank you for the opportunity to work with (organization) as a (job title). I am very appreciative of and keenly interested in the offer. At the same time, I have committed to several organizations for second interviews, and would like to see these through to completion. I am writing to request a delay in responding until (date) to be able to collect all the information I need to reach this important decision.”

Employers are more likely to offer time extensions during the fall semester than during the spring semester.