After weeks of searching for jobs, facing tough interviews, and rejections, you finally have a job offer. Given all the trouble you went through, you wish to accept the offer immediately. But, wait! Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you consider the following:
1. Salary: You work to earn money. This holds true even if you have your dream job and passion is your driving force. Review the salary you are offered. Is it in line with industry standards? Remember, the salary should sustain your standard of living. Your negotiation skills could help you increase the amount offered to some extent.
2. Compensation structure: You must know the components of your salary and the in-hand amount. Look for disclaimers in your letter about possible deductions. Find out whether they are mandatory or optional.
3. Job profile: You will spend more than a third of your day at the job. So, you should be satisfied with the job profile. If the scope of work is not detailed in the offer letter, speak to an HR representative to get a detailed explanation.
4. Career growth: Growth is vital for moving ahead in your career. After all, nobody wishes to workat the same position forever. Talk to your prospective employer about career progression and the promotions process. Tally it with the road map you have planned for yourself.
5. Personal development: Try to gauge the importance the employer gives to training. Can you pursue a certification or course while working? Will the employer assist you by paying fees or rescheduling work timings? These matters are important for your personal development.
6. Perks: Check what additional benefits you might get. Insurance is one crucial benefit that many employers provide. In addition, find out about other facilities like gym, festival/birthday bonuses, vouchers, coupons, and so on. At senior positions, there will be a completely different list of perks.
7. Work timings: Apart from regular office timings, does the job demand that you work late or overnight? Is working on weekends normal there or would there be deadline-based tasks? Are you paid for overtime work? With this information, you will know what to expect. If you are looking for a job with fixed office hours, you know what to do.
8. Commute: Office location is not always a priority when job hunting, but it does affect you in certain ways. You must know if your new workplace is easily accessible. The commuting time, cost involved, and your readiness to commute makes a difference. In addition, find out if the employer will reimburse transportation costs.
9. Organisational culture: You will have to adapt to the workplace culture. If you are serious and schedule-driven, for example, you may not be comfortable or productive working at a casual workplace. Before you commit to a job, see if the goals and values of the company are in sync with yours.
10. Company history: Research the company’s background, market reputation, and expansion plans. The company’s image is very important, for it can have a big impact on your career and CV.
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