Accepting a Job Offer
The words “you’re hired” is a sweet sound, but what should you consider before accepting a job offer? While it may be tempting to accept an offer on the spot, careful research and self-evaluation can lead to long-term success for both you and the employer. A potential employee who evaluates fully the merits of an offer likely will gain the respect of the employer. By taking a little extra time to consider the fit before accepting the job offer, you can save yourself from headaches and remorse down the road. Take a look at these six factors before saying yes to a new job:
1. Short and Long-Term Benefits
Before you accept that seemingly perfect job offer, make sure you are fully aware of all the short-term and long-term benefits. The perks can differ dramatically from employer to employer. For instance, retirement plans can consist of a pension, 401(k), or some other savings plan or investment vehicle. Ask about the company’s time off policy for vacation, sick leave, and maternity leave. Some companies now also provide childcare or a subsidized daycare. If you are a parent, make sure you take advantage of these benefits.
2. Matching Mission and Values
Sharing the same goals and values as your potential employer makes work much more enjoyable and rewarding. If you value a progressive and inclusive work environment, make sure the company does as well. If you intend to wear jeans and casual attire to work, make sure that is acceptable before walking in the first day. Before you accept, check to make sure your mission and beliefs are in alignment with the employer.
3. Weighing the Turnover Rate
Although some companies have a naturally high turnover rate, it can also signal problems. In order to get a more accurate picture, compare the company’s turnover rate with that of industry peers. You should also be honest with yourself about how long you intend to stay. If you intend to stay for life, but most employees leave after two years, take a little more time to think if this is really the right fit for you.
4. See What Current Employees Are Saying
If you are considering accepting a new job offer within the same corporate family, you likely have a good idea of the work environment and expectations. However, this may prove more challenging if the offer is from a new company. Utilize the resources from Glassdoor.com and other websites that offer helpful reviews from actual employees. Large companies tend to have hundreds or even thousands of reviews. If you are considering accepting a job offer from a smaller company, consider reaching out to an employee you may know through a friend or LinkedIn.
5. Find out What Customers Are Saying
One of the best indications of the healthiness of a company is what current customers are saying. Investigate whether customers and clients leave satisfied reviews or scathing warnings to others on websites like Yelp or the Better Business Bureau. You likely will get candid opinions, as businesses usually cannot control what customers say. Don’t expect a company that treats its customers bad to treat its employees any differently.
6. Evaluate What You Stand to Gain
Consider the new skills and knowledge you will have after working at the company for two, five, and ten years. Does the company encourage ongoing training and lifelong learning? If the employer is willing to invest in you, make sure you are willing to invest in them. Even if the job is a stepping-stone to bigger things, consider whether you will be more attractive to future employers after a few years with the company in the proposed role.
When thinking about whether to accept a job offer, a little personal reflection and online sleuthing can go a long way. Be mindful of what you want out of the job, and what you bring to the table. Evaluate the offer while keeping the six factors listed above in mind. If the position passes your tests, be confident it will be a good fit for both you and the company.
This post was written by Morris Lilienthal. Morris is a shareholder with the personal injury law firm Martinson & Beason, P.C. He is AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell and has received the Alabama Super Lawyer Rising Star award. In addition to car accidents, he also assists clients with wrongful death, nursing home negligence, and products liability cases.
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