This is a guest post by Sara Drake.
Accepting a job goes beyond simply saying yes. Leaving a current employer on good terms and researching the kind of workplace you’d thrive in takes time. However, acing the application process is an opportunity to showcase your talents and lead with your strengths. Whether it’s an entry-level job or a senior position, let the company know exactly how you would contribute in the long run. A job offer is exciting, but don’t forget to consider the following factors before accepting a new position.
Evaluate Any Lifestyle Changes
Take into account how the time commitment of the job would affect your current lifestyle and existing responsibilities. Would it be a standard Monday-through-Friday role with a 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. workday? Are you expected to work weekends or holidays? Would your day-to-day responsibilities require overtime? Is travel expected at some point? If you’re unsure of being able to meet the professional obligations, you might want to consider whether the job is the right choice.
Research the Company’s Values
When you commit to working for a company, you’re agreeing to represent their values and messages. Before saying yes, research where they stand on ethical treatment of employees and other considerations such as company culture. When you go to the interview, take note of the atmosphere. Are employees conversing? Does the office leave a good impression? Do you see quality equipment and necessary retargets to accomplish daily tasks? You have a lot to offer the company, and the company should be able to offer the same to you.
Are the Benefits Appropriate?
If the job description seems like a good fit, keep the benefits in mind as well. You might be able to flex your degree and acquired skills, but if the compensation doesn’t seem fair, ask about it before accepting the job. What are some compensative elements that are non-negotiable? Are you prepared to discuss alternative options? A company might brag about its espresso machines or office dogs, but without fair monetary compensation and health care benefits, those perks may not be worth it.
Is There Room for Professional Advancement?
When searching for a job, you’re probably also trying to figure out how to advance your career. Once you get the official offer, it’s important to determine how the job aligns with your long-term goals and overall career aspirations. How will success within the role be measured? Will you be able to grow within the company and expand your skills? It’s a good sign when companies offer growth opportunities or training programs to advance employees’ expertise. Overall, try to determine if this is a place you could personally and professionally succeed.
Once you’ve researched the company’s structure, environment, and values, as well as the responsibilities of the position, are you prepared to accept? Be honest with yourself and your employer about expectations for the job. It’s natural to feel nervous about a new position, but if you believe you can thrive in this space, it may be the right decision. For more information on how to evaluate a job offer before accepting, check out the accompanying infographic.
About the Guest Post Author:
Sara Drake is Director of Marketing for Advanced Retargets, a talent solutions organization headquartered in Chicago. Drake, who has 15 years of experience in the industry, focuses on talent solutions through staffing, consulting and workforce solutions.