What to consider before Taking a Job Offer
By the time a job offer is made, you should have the basic information regarding the organization and job expectations. The following can be used as a tool to help you determine your own job "deal makers and deal breakers" before accepting a job. It is not suggested that you get into a reverse role by interviewing the organization's representative. What is important is that you get enough information to make an informed decison regarding your career.
The organizationIs it reputable? Is the organization stable? What is the mission and business philosophy? Can you believe in and follow the mission and philosophy? Does the organization believe in growing its employees?
The jobIs this a new position or are you replacing someone? If it is a new position, what is the business methodology for its creation?
What happened to the last individual holding the job (the interviewer may or may not be willing to share this information)?
Does the organization express a true need and desire to fill the job? What are the functions of the job? To whom will you report? Is there travel involved, and if there is are you willing to do so?
Is the job local or will you have to consider relocation? And if so, is there a relocation package? What are the days and hours of the work week? Is the position temporary, per diem, part time or full time? Do work hours and work days fluctuate?
Compensation
Will the base compensation meet your needs? Is it an hourly or salaried position?Are there commissions or performance bonuses involved? If so, how and when are they paid? When and how often will you be paid? Is there an option to have your check direct deposited to your checking/savings account? Are there merit or cost of living increases? How is overtime paid? Is overtime mandatory?
Benefits
If possible, obtain an overview of company benefits. What benefits are offered and when are you eligible (e.g. medical, dental, life insurance, 401k plan, 403b plan, housing allowance, short term and long term disability)?
What is your cost for benefits? For example, many employers pay a portion of health insurance benefits. Don’t put yourself in a position of accepting a job offer, only to find out that you cannot afford the insurance coverage.
Is there a paid time off benefit? Is there a vacation benefit? Is there a paid holiday benefit?
Continuing Education
If your goal is to continue your education, does the organization have a tuition assistance program? If so, what are the eligibility and pay-back requirements?
Goals
Does the job align with your personal and professional goals? What do you see yourself doing in three years? Is there an opportunity for promotion?
If everything sounds good and there are no deal breakers, ask yourself these final questions before taking the job:
Do I like the job I’m being hired for?Can I meet the needs of the organization?Will I be a valued member of the organization?
Success, it’s what you make it!
