9 Things To Consider When You Get A Job Offer

After countless hours of sending out your resume and interviewing at multiple companies, you finally received an offer for a position. But before you sign the dotted line and start poppin' bottles, there are a few things to consider when you get a job offer to assure that you're making the right choice for your life. While this might sound crazy, not every job offer is going to be "the one." Just like dating, there are a few questions you should ask and things you need to consider before saying yes and building a relationship with a new potential employer. While the job might sound great on paper, after thorough research, you may find some things that aren't really meeting your expectations.

"If you are unsure about accepting in the moment, ask them if you can get back to them in a timeframe that you need to make your decision. Don't make it too long (no longer than five business days). However, avoid giving the impression that you're unsure about the position and you need to take that long to decide because of that. Employers want to hire someone that's excited about the job, so word it carefully saying you are excited about the opportunity and at the same time you want to consider your decision carefully," says Hallie Crawford in an interview with Bustle over email.

Even though the thought of getting a job is very exciting, you want to make sure that it's going to make you happy — because the last thing you want is to spend around 40 hours a week at a place that's going to make you miserable. But what exactly do you need to consider before you accept a job offer? Check out these tips below.

1. If You Like The Company Culture

A company that prides themselves on its culture is usually a great place to work for. But you still want to make sure it coincides with your personality and work style. "Check out the company culture via social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook," says founder of Be Social Ali Grant in an interview with Bustle over email.

2. Thoroughly Examine Your Offer Perks

Where you are in your career may determine how flexible you can be when it comes to the perks. This is important to figure out because those little extra incentives can really make or break on how happy you'll be at your job in the long run. "Review the overall offer thoroughly. Perhaps there isn't a 401K package, but the salary is higher than other competing employers. Or maybe the pay is lower, but there are flex hours and ability to bring your pet to work. You need to weigh the entire package and make your decision based on what is important to you. Don't be afraid to ask for more. It won't hurt," says Grant.

3. If The Job Fulfills Your Core Values

"It is important to analyze the job opportunity to see if it will provide fulfillment and honor your core values. Having the right work environment and a sense of satisfaction or fulfillment at work is critical," says Crawford. How do you know for sure if this company is the right fit? "Ask yourself if the job will offer you the opportunity to use your talents and skills regularly, compensate you adequately, and offer the best work environment for your personality type."

4. The Amount Of Money They're Offering

Even if the job sounds amazing, stressing out about money does not. If you're not comfortable with the amount that they're offering, be ready to negotiate. "When getting a job offer, be prepared to negotiate your salary. It is important to do your research beforehand. See what the going rate in your industry is for your area so you know how much you should be making. Websites like indeed.com and glassdoor.com have good salary research information," says Crawford.

5. If You Like The People

Working with people who you just don't get along with can really suck the life out of you. But how do you determine if you're going to work well with the team if you haven't even started your first day yet? Well, according to The Muse, you can figure this out by how they treat you throughout the interview process. Were they punctual, friendly, and did they show enthusiasm about the company? Ask yourself these questions to help get you through the process to decide if that's the type of crowd you want to work with.

6. The Environment

While the job description might sound nice, the work environment is also a key factor during this process. According to Business Insider, you should consider the type of environment you thrive in. Can you work in a noisy, fast-paced environment? Can you handle working overtime? What about working in private? Make sure you're asking these type of questions during the interview so you'll know the answers before having to accept the job offer.

7. Does The Company Embrace Personal Development

If your dream is to climb the corporate later, make sure to find a job that prides themselves on helping their employees to be the best they can be. According to U.S. News, try to find a company that is known to promote from within and don't be afraid to ask the other employees on how they perform under their management, too.

8. Their Expectations Of Your Responsibilities

Even if the description of the job states what they expect out of you, your superiors might have a different idea once you're actually within the office. According to a LinkedIn article, try to be completely transparent by asking your possible future employers what they're ideally expecting out of you for this role. Ask what the day-to-day is like and if there are any expected extra tasks. When they respond, make sure to read in between the lines. They can say one thing, when it could actually mean another.

9. What Your Gut Is Telling You

At the end of the day, what your gut is telling you is probably the most important factor you need to consider when you're accepting a new job. According to Salary.com, visceral cues are great indicators on how you feel from your subconscious. Although, try not to confuse fear with your gut feeling. Even though you may be afraid to try something new, it might be one of the best decisions you've ever made, because it could lead you to a better opportunity. Take a walk through the park or sleep on it, and if you still feel uneasy about the job, then don't take it.

Accepting a new job can completely change your life, whether it's for the better or worse. Consider these points before you say yes. And even if you don't want the job, view this time as valuable experience for your next interview process.

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