What to Do When You Get a Job Offer

Before you accept or decline a job offer, there's plenty to consider. In this article, we will discuss the best ways to accept a job offer. We'll also discuss negotiation tips if the offer isn't what you were hoping for.

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What should you do after you get a job offer?

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Candidates don't always know how to accept a job offer. If you get a job offer via email or on the phone, do not accept it immediately. Is there a deadline to provide a response? Even if it's your dream job and everything sounds great, take some time to read over the details of the offer. Every company will give candidates at least a day or two to make a decision after receiving a job offer.

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Carefully read the entire job offer

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It's a good idea to read every aspect of your job offer. Pay attention to more than just the salary.

• Is there a bonus or commission on top of the base salary?
• What health coverage is included?
• Are there additional benefits or perks?
• What is the vacation policy?

Make sure you understand all of the above. If the offer letter does not include these details, be sure to ask the hiring manager or member of HR before accepting the job. Job offers for salespeople or other roles that have a bonus structure may take more time to go through. Be sure you completely understand the compensation package before accepting an offer. If you are confused while going through it, write down one or two questions to discuss with the company.

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Additional questions for the potential employer

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Remember, this is your future and your career, so you want to be 100% comfortable with the salary and additional benefits before accepting. Ask the employer if they have an employee handbook or if there is other information you should be aware of before signing on the dotted line. Every candidate should fully understand the expectations the employer will have of them. Have a conversation with human resources or your future boss about what your goals will be.

• Is there a red flag or something that makes you uncomfortable?
• Do you know who your teammates or counterparts will be?
• Are the terms of the offer what you expected?
• Does the start date work?
• Is travel involved?
• Is there anything about the position or role that you would like to change?

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How to negotiate your job offer

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Sometimes a person will get a job offer that isn't exactly what they need it to be in order to accept. This doesn't mean you can't make it work. Negotiating with potential employers can be tricky though, so ask a mentor or close friend for career advice before going back to the company to negotiate.

Reach out to the person that sent the offer letter to set up a meeting or phone call to discuss the job offer. You can send an email with your concerns or changes and ask to speak about them in more detail. It's always good to send a note with your concerns in advance of your conversation.

If you worked with a recruiter, you can reach out to them about negotiating. Depending on how involved they are, they might determine who goes back to the company.

If you decide to you don't want to accept the job, here's a full guide on how to decline a job offer politely.

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If your current company counters your job offer

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There is a chance when you go to resign, your current company will give you a counteroffer. People have to decide if this is something they are interested in before responding. There are many factors to keep in mind and take into consideration when it comes to a counter offer.

• Are you only concerned about money?
• Is the new job a better opportunity for you and your career?
• Will you have the same success if you stay in your role?
• Does the new job offer one or more growth opportunities for you?
• Is the job title better at the new company?

If you accept a counteroffer, you will have to go back to the organization and turn them down. This can leave a bad taste in their mouths and hurt any future employment opportunities. Everyone loves to have options when it comes to their career, but make sure you go with your gut and make the right decision for your long term career.

Will taking a counteroffer bring you the same excitement and feeling you had about the new offer? Someone who takes a counteroffer is expected to stay at their current job for a reasonable amount of time.

Always weigh your options and maintain integrity throughout the process. If you do get a counteroffer, ask your current company any questions so you have a full understanding of both offers.

• Will there be changes to your role?
• Are there opportunities for your salary to go up or get a raise?
• Are there steps for you to grow and gain new experience?
• Do you have an interest in continuing what you have been doing?

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Final career tips on what to do when you get a job offer

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The most important thing is to take the time to decide if this is the right move for you and your career. No matter how you respond to a job offer, always show your gratitude and appreciation. Always says thanks and be polite throughout your negotiations. Companies take notice of these things, and your tone during these interactions can hurt you.

Choose an employer and company that you think would be a good fit. While salary is important, you want to be happy too. If this isn't the right one, move on to the next opportunity.