What you must consider when evaluating a job offer

Congratulations! You applied for a job that almost seemed like a dream and got through the door as the chosen one! The employer wants to know your decision by Friday, and you are afraid of taking too long to think things through before you say yes. But don’t blurt out an excited “Yes!” as soon as you hear the job offer. Take some time to evaluate the offer and consider all the options. Here are some things you need to consider before saying yes or no to a job offer.

First, think about the money

We all think about the salary when we first evaluate a job offer. The employer will include a figure with the offer. Take time to cross-reference it with your current monthly spending budget and your future plans before agreeing. Negotiating salary with a job offer is a big deal. You will have a lot to consider when deciding whether the offered salary is appropriate for your needs. Does it have enough wiggle room for the increased gas expenses? Would you still have anything to put into the retirement fund? Here are some other financial aspects you should consider:

• Bonuses
• Health insurance and wellness benefits
• Retirement
• Profit-sharing or stock options
• Relocation assistance
• Day-care or child-care reimbursement
• Ancillary benefits

Check whether the company culture is a fit for you

If all goes well, you will be spending the next 5-10 years of your life in this company. Would you really want to be stuck in a toxic workplace for that long? Before you accept any job offer, no matter how enticing it may seem, you must always do your research on the company culture. Ask some current employees about the company’s policy on professional development. Does the employer have good training and development programs for you? Are they willing to help with your career advancement? Next, ask for a tour of the facility so you can check out the work environment. If you are not a cubicle person, being stuck in one for half a decade will become depressing two weeks into the new job.

Take account of your needs

Everyone has different needs they want their job to fulfill. Consider whether this job would give you what you need. Check if the job offers a good work-life balance. Would you still be able to spend the holidays with your family? Or would you have to work around the clock during the holiday season because the business is in the hospitality sector? It is important to get all of the perks of the job in writing too. Verbal agreements with a previous boss may no longer stand once the person leaves the organization. Here are a few things to consider:

• Travel requirements of the job
• Paid time off, vacations, personal or sick days, family leave
• Remote work and work flexibility
• Schedule flexibility

Know what will come your way while negotiating the job offer

It isn’t easy to evaluate a job offer. The negotiations may even drain your energy at times. If you have never had experience negotiating or evaluating a job offer, talking to a career expert would be helpful. A career coach or a life coach can listen to what the job has to offer and point you in the right direction during negotiations. Or you can choose to work with a recruiter. The recruitment agency will handle the job offer evaluation and assist you in making your decision.