When you get a job offer, it is tempting to accept it
quickly, saying "YES!!! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you."
But hold on...think about the pros and cons of accepting the job. Discuss terms of
employment (hours, salary and benefits) with the employer before you accept the job.
To Accept or
Not to Accept
The Terms of
Employment
To
Accept or Not to Accept
When you are deciding whether or not to accept a job
offer, ask yourself the following questions:
1) How badly do you need
the job? Is there a possibility that you would be better off in the long run to wait for a
better opportunity?
2) Did you like the
'feel' of the place when you went for your interview?
3) Will the duties be
interesting and satisfying to you?
4) Will you be satisfied
with the salary, working conditions and benefits?
5) Will the job bring
you closer to your career goals?
6) Is the employer solid
financially and in a good competitive position in the industry?
7) Is it a short term or
permanent position? In either case, is it what you want or need right now?
8) Can you get
transportation to the workplace?
9) Do you have other
promising applications in progress?
You don't have to accept the job or turn it down
right away. If you need to think it over, ask for some time to make a decision. Let the
employer know that you are very interested in the position and that you will make a
decision within a short period of time.
Before you decide to accept a job offer there
are several other factors that need to be discussed or negotiated if they haven't been
already, including:
A written job description
outlining your specific duties and responsibilities
The position's start date
Starting salary
Benefits package, if any
Vacation time
The
Terms of Employment
If you have questions or concerns about the terms of
employment, talk them over with the employer before you accept or decline the position.
You have no room to bargain if you have already accepted the job. Again, make it clear
that you are interested, but you would like to discuss a few things before you go ahead
and accept the position.
It is not generally a good idea to accept a wage that
is below the market rate. Even if you are more interested in the experience than the
money, an employer will typically see you as a less valuable employee if you undervalue
your work.
Find out which terms of employment are negotiable,
some topics you may want to consider include:
Performance
evaluation
Probationary
period (generally three months)
A salary
raise after six months on the job
Health or dental
insurance coverage
Cost-of-living
raises, or merit raises
A parking spot
Your specific job
title
Additional or
different responsibilities
When you are negotiating, try to be as objective as
possible. If you do negotiate improvements in the job offer, be sure to get them in
writing. Keep in mind that the arrangement has to be beneficial for both you and the
employer.
If you do decide to accept a job offer, show your
enthusiasm about beginning the job. If you turn an offer down, be tactful (don't burn any
bridges) and express your appreciation for the offer.
