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Getting an offer does not necessarily mean you will accept the job. This thought may seem a little ridiculous to those who have been waiting to finally receive an offer, but it's true. Luckily, most employers will not expect an immediate answer to their offer. You may even be given a couple of days to respond. This time will come in handy to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the offer and help you make a more informed decision.
Remember that discussing your job offer with a career adviser can be helpful. You will also want to consult with family members, professors, mentors or other trusted people. Give yourself time to ask any questions about points that haven't been clarified before you accept or decline. Keep in mind that even giving a verbal acceptance over the phone means you have committed yourself to that position. If you turn around and reject the written offer, this is considered "reneging" and is an unethical and inconsiderate thing to do. You may be excited and anxious to get to work, but ask for time to think it over; employers get this request all the time.
Points to Consider
Here are some considerations to keep in mind when evaluating an offer:
The duties of the job itself will be the most important. This is how you will spend your days. Is it something that appeals to you? Can you do it on a regular basis or for an extended period of time? Is it interesting? Does it fit into your long-range goals? Is it a company or job you can be proud of?
Is your supervisor or boss someone you can work with? Could they be a mentor? Try to find out about this person's past experience or work style.
Salary is not the only form of compensation you will receive. Remember to be flexible in your demands. Don't underestimate the value of non-salary items. Take a good look at the benefits package when considering the offer. How useful will it be to you and/or your family? The employer may be willing to negotiate on the benefits and perks that accompany the position if the salary is absolutely non-negotiable. Some of these points can include reimbursement of student loan debt, holiday time, a shorter probationary period, car or travel expenses, relocation/moving allowances, company car, laptop computer, professional development opportunities, etc.
Is the salary at market level? Is it more than your current or previous jobs? How does it compare to the workload and responsibilities? Salary reviews and promotions will quickly become more important than your starting salary once you are past the probationary period. How often are reviews conducted? How are pay raises evaluated?
Sometimes peers can be difficult to deal with and make a job unbearable. Ask about the morale of the staff or the corporate culture before you accept.
How many work hours per week does the position require? What are the regular office hours? You should also inquire if the work can be