How will you decide?

Switching jobs is a big deal, and sometimes an ordeal. After the searching, applying, and multiple interviews finally pay off, a job offer might seem like the time to celebrate. But even though the hard part is over, handling the offer is a critical stage of the process. So postpone the revels and take this part seriously! Thank the company for extending the offer, request some time to think, and then review this checklist before making the big decision.

Know what’s coming
Surprises are rarely a good thing, and job offers are not an exception. Stay in close contact with the hiring managers and recruiters to keep updated and prepared when an offer does come in. Set expectations early in the process with regards to compensation and be precise, because the last thing anybody wants is a lowball offer resulting from miscommunication. Bonus, relocation assistance, benefits; these all should be known-knowns, not unpleasant surprises.

Have a clear vision
“Where do you want to be five years from now?” Be able to answer that question, and not just for the sake of the interview. Without long term career goals, changing jobs quickly devolves into job-hopping. How would this new company aid in achieving that vision in ways the current employer doesn’t? Maybe the old company was terrible, but how will the new company be better? These are all questions that need concrete, articulated answers before an offer of employment can be judged rationally.

Know the company
Research the company at every stage of the process. Talk to friends and coworkers, current and former employees, read the employee reviews. Anything and everything! The internet can be a tricky place to research, and take the reviews on sites like Glassdoor with a healthy dose of skepticism. Actually talking with employees or people familiar with the company is the best bet for the unvarnished truth. Ask about the culture, the office environment, the boss, likes and dislikes. Details might not seem important now, but they will matter after working with the company 6-12 months down the road.

Request specifics
Before starting any sort of deliberation process it is a smart idea to review the actual offer letter, benefits handbook, and PTO policy of the company making the offer. Most companies will send additional information along with the offer without being asked, but feel free to request anything they don’t. Again, this is how surprises are avoided. Ask for clarification on any details and fight the temptation to feel pressured or rushed.

Negotiate/Accept/Decline (with class)
Always remember that both sides likely want the same thing; the candidate want the job, and the company wants the candidate. Even in the face of an unexpectedly low offer, remain polite, grateful, and enthusiastic in all communications. Some companies put it on the candidate to negotiate the offer while others prefer a take-it-or-leave-it approach. Never burn bridges. If the company is unable/unwilling to meet previously established expectations, feel free to walk away after thanking the company for their consideration.

Take away
Managing a job offer is a process in its own right, but is critical to choosing the right job and employer. It should never be rushed and always treated every bit as seriously as the initial search and interviews. Prevent surprises, do the research, have some tact and make the right decision. Then pop the champagne.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Robert Gallagher is an Executive Recruiter and Career Coach at The Denzel Group. He received his Bachelors in Corporate Communications from Penn State University. He has published works in Lehigh Valley Business, Tradition Magazine, ERE Media, The Pottstown-Mercury, State of the Valley and is a LinkedIn contributor. Follow him on http://www.hiringrecruiting.com/

THE DENZEL GROUP:

The Denzel Group conducts Contingent, Retained and Staff Augmentation Information Technology searches for a wide variety of clients. Using our tried and proven 17-step search process, we are able to provide our clients with critically talented Information Technology professionals in a timely and cost efficient manner. Visit us at http://www.thedenzelgroup.com