Congratulations! You have received a job offer, but what comes next?
After you have received a job offer(s), it is important to take the time to decide and evaluate whether you want to accept or decline a position. Employers are highly likely to negotiate aspects of a job offer; however, only 25% of applicants actually take the time to do so. Typically, a list of materials and information is sent via email or other platforms (check your mail!). Read over this material carefully. The following is a list of materials and criteria that is typically sent and important to consider when deciding to accept or decline a position:
- Salary (will the salary cover all your financial needs?)
- You should discuss salary after you have been offered a position and before accepting. Discussing salary in an initial interview is premature, but discussing salary after you accept an offer also limits your negotiation influence.
- A good benefits package can add as much as 30% to your overall salary, and some of it may be tax-free. See the Top 10 Benefits Employers Offer here.
- Other factors to consider include Location, Expenses Covered, Date to Accept the Offer By
Multiple Job Offers? What are Your Options?
If you have multiple offers, take the time to compose a list of your values and expectations of the job and prioritize those values and expectations with the realities of the job. Create a ranking-system to help you determine level of importance. The following includes several considerations and questions to ask when contemplating several job offers:
- Does the position offered include variety and challenges that fit your capabilities?
- Does the position offered present flexibility in schedule and hours?
- Does the position offered allow for desired responsibility and independence?
- Does the position offered provide a training program and opportunities to advance?
- Will the position offered require you to travel or move often?
- Will the position offered allow you to establish a positive relationship with your boss and/or co-workers?
- You can use a chart like this to help you when comparing multiple job offers.
Use this information to help you answer an employer's questions about your preferred salary.
After reading the material sent, write back (email) to your contact and thank them for extending the offer.
Your next step involves making a decision; you have several options:
1. Continue to consider the job offer, but do so in a reasonable time-frame.
- Express your appreciation and offer a time-frame agreeable to your employer (typically, a few days is appropriate).
- You could say: “I am excited about the possibility of working at [company name], but I would like to take some time to think about the offer. Could I get back to you with my decision by/in [tomorrow? 2 days?]?”
2. Accept the offer immediately.
- If the company fits with your values and expectations, show your appreciation and accept! Ask your contact to confirm the offer in writing. Avoid breaking your word on an offer once you have accepted.
- You could say: “Thank you for your assurance in me. I look forward to working with [you or the company name].”
3. Reject the offer.
- Express your appreciation for the offer and their confidence in you. Thank you contact for the opportunity to interview then politely decline the offer. You never know, another opportunity you might consider could arise in the future.
- You could say: “While I appreciate the opportunity to have interviewed with your company, I do not believe this position is an appropriate match for me at this time.”