I accepted a conditional offer at a company a couple of weeks ago. We talked on the phone, they offered a number, I said I would accept that, and they sent me an email with a link to a website where I stated that I accepted the job offer. for the past weeks I have been doing traditional checks and formalities to get incorporated. I haven't yet signed the official job offer at their facilities, so it wouldn't be held against me if I negotiate on specific terms of it, but it is my understanding that the salary cannot be renegued as that is what was conditionally accepted.
But I also continued to interview another employer who might give me a better pay and better position, we discussed the position and they would like me to go to a final interview where we will probably detail an offer. I am very interested to go to that interview at the very least to know my market value.
In the event that I am able to negotiate a high enough salary to make it worth it to reject the original offer. Should I back down on my original agreement?
I am aware that the original company would be hurt if I back down, but is it my responsibility just because I accepted a conditional offer? If it is I am prepared to respect my original agreement with the first company. However if it wasn't expected that I take concern of their situation after I declined, then I would be able to reject it.
I am looking to avoid hurting this company if it is my responsibility, and to avoid burning bridges for future opportunities.