Dealing with job offers

Receiving a job offer can be exciting and it is natural to accept straight away. However, it is usually best to give yourself time to think things through before you accept. Here are some tips on what you can do if someone offers you a job.

You don't have to make a quick decision

Even if you are pretty sure that you will accept the job, you do not need to accept immediately. Ask for some time so you can make an informed decision. This will give you time to think clearly and give you some bargaining room.

Most employers will not expect you to accept or reject an offer on the spot. Ask for when a response is required. Make sure you clarify any questions or concerns you have about the job offer before you make your decision.

Ask for the offer in writing

It is in your best interest not to accept a job offer until you have the offer in writing. For many reasons, verbal offers occasionally fail to actually happen, or what was discussed changes when you start working. Show your enthusiasm and ask for a written offer.

Don't expect an offer to be in writing 100% of the time - some employers would rather discuss all aspects of the offer first then send you a letter of agreement after you've given a verbal yes.

Get all the details

Ask as many questions as necessary to provide you with all the information you need to make a good decision.

Consider:

• main duties of the position (get a job description in writing)
• performance expectations (targets etc)
• days and hours of work
• flexi time
• rate of pay/salary - write it down and repeat it so there is no misunderstanding
• overtime pay, if any
• holiday arrangements
• conditional requirements (for example, physical examination, drug testing, police check)
• superannuation choices
• starting date
• relocation assistance.

Find out who you can follow up with if you have questions.

Evaluate the offer

There are many things to consider when a job offer is made:

• Does the job match your interests and qualifications?
• Will it potentially satisfy your expectations and lifestyle?
• How does it fit into your long-term goals?
• Is there potential for career development within the company?

In assessing a job offer it is useful to consider factors that relate to:

• the company
• the nature of the job
• opportunities offered
• pay and conditions.

Words of Warning!

Be careful about accepting a job offer believing that you can always back out of it if you get a better offer later. Many employers consider it unethical (and inconvenient), so your reputation in the industry could be at stake.

Always get a letter of offer or sign a contract before giving notice to your current employer. If something goes wrong in the meantime and your new employer withdraws the job offer, you could be left without a job!