Read This Before You Accept That Job Offer!

If someone you’ve only known for a week proposed to you, would you immediately say “yes” — or would you think about it first?

The same logic should apply when you consider a job proposal. Because, while a work relationship is not the same as a romantic one, it is still a big commitment.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re looking at a new job offer (or maybe several!) and you’re trying to figure out the best way to proceed.

Well, good news! In today’s article, we’re going over exactly how to review, consider, and potentially accept that proposal! So before you say “I do”, let’s take a look at the do’s and don’ts of reviewing a job offer!

Step 1: Read Everything

A serious job offer could contain a number of legal documents, such as an employment contract, non-disclosure or non-compete agreements, employee guidelines, and more.

Certain things might seem the most important to you, such as salary and benefits. But if you don’t read the fine print, things might not go all that fine at your new job.

Another thing you should be cautious of is verbal or “handshake” agreements. Before you agree to a new job, GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING! If there were special accommodations or unique aspects to your hiring that were discussed in person, or by call, double-check that they have been included in your employment contract. Failing to do so could mean both you and your employer will be unhappy with the arrangement down the road.

Step 2: Confirm Timelines

After you’ve reviewed the offer, be sure to ask for time to give it consideration.

High-pressure situations can cause you to think with your heart and not your head — meaning you’ll make impulsive decisions without giving yourself time to think it through.

In most cases, recruiters are prepared to wait a few days at least for you to accept (or reject) an offer, but it is more polite and professional to reply immediately with a quick thank you, followed by a request to confirm the deadline.

Consider changing to “If they have already provided a deadline for a reply, just thank them and let them know you will respond as soon as possible.

Step 3: Prepare To Negotiate

After reviewing the job offer, and ensuring you have time to consider it, it’s time to start weighing your decision.

You can start by making a list of pros and cons about the offer. Ask yourself if the benefits outweigh the costs, and if there are any major issues that would prevent this job from helping you maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Some of the biggest questions to consider include:

Does this job start at a time when I’ll be ready and available to work?
Does this job pay enough to cover my living costs and allow me to save money?
Does this job require transportation (relocation or commuting) that will negatively affect my life?
Do the hours fit my life schedule?
Does this job keep me on track for my life and career goals?
Is there room for growth?
If the job is temporary, is the contract sufficient for my needs?
Is the company culture a good match for my values?
Do I feel like they are missing any important details in the offer (whether intentionally or not)?

After asking yourself these questions, and considering any other implications that accepting the job will have on your life, you should have a good idea of whether the job is perfect, almost perfect, or not a match.

If it’s not perfect, then negotiation is something you’ll want to consider. In many cases, recruiters have some wiggle room when it comes to what they can offer you. But before you start making counter offers or airing your grievances with the contract, you need to ask whether they’ll be open to negotiating in the first place.

A good way to bring it up is to thank them, and politely ask about room to negotiate without making specific demands. For example, the body of your email could look like:

“Thank you for your patience. I have reviewed your job offer and was wondering if you would be open to discussing a few changes that I feel would make it easier for me to accept.”

If they are open to the idea of negotiating, then you can proceed. If they say that the offer is non-negotiable, then you should respect their decision.

Pro Tip: When it comes to negotiating, you should keep the discussion as brief as possible. That means going in already armed with an idea of what you are willing and unwilling to accept. You should also be ready to back up your requests with evidence of why you deserve them (such as experience, market averages for salary for that position, etc.)

Step 4: Accept or Decline

When all is said and done, and you know exactly what they’re willing to offer you, it’s time to make your decision.

If you decline:

Decline politely and professionally in writing.

Thank them for the opportunity, and let them know that unfortunately you cannot accept their offer at this time.

You do not need to give a specific reason, but you should try your best to leave things open-ended with that employer in case future opportunities that suit your needs become available.

So be positive, polite, and say you look forward to the possibility of working together in the future!

If you accept:

Just like you ask for the offer in writing, be sure to accept in writing.

Start by reiterating that you appreciate them extending you this offer, and indicate in no uncertain terms that you accept.

It is also a good idea to confirm important details such as start date and job title. And if there are any documents which you were required to sign as part of accepting the agreement, include those as well. That way it’s clear exactly what you’re agreeing to. It’s never good for there to be ambiguity between you and your employer.

Lastly, end with a bit of personal enthusiasm! The people with whom you are communicating may very well become your closest coworkers in a short time, so your working relationship with them begins now. Let them know you’re excited and looking forward to working with them!

Conclusion

The golden rule of considering a job offer is to ask YOURSELF if you accept. Don’t let recruiters pressure you to make snap decisions. By being honest with yourself about what you want, you can give an honest reply to that offer!

Do you have a new job offer you’re wrestling with? META can help you review it to ensure you’re getting fair and equitable treatment. We’re even happy to negotiate on your behalf with employers to make sure you get just that!

Or if you need more offers — we can help with that too! Book a free appointment with us today to get all the help you need to succeed!

Read This Before You Accept That Job Offer!