Evaluating Job Offers

Not all job offers are worth taking

Once you have done all the hard work and have fought for that big job, the next step is receiving a call telling you that you are THE ONE! Knowing that an employer thinks enough of you to invest their time and money is flattering.

Now comes the time to get down to the bottom line – money. Once you have been selected for the job, a salary offer is usually all that needs to be agreed upon before all of the I’s are dotted and the T’s are crossed.

Think twice or three times before jumping into that job.

While salary is important, it is not the only thing that must be considered before you commit yourself to your new employer. Before you make one of the most serious decisions in your life, ask yourself these questions:

Why am I taking this job?
If it is because you want the job, that’s fine. If it is to get your parents off your back or to keep your girlfriend happy, maybe that’s not so fine. Make sure you are considering this job because it is something that you want.

Is the money right?
While it may be true that money can’t buy happiness, it sure is a lot easier to be happy when you can pay your bills every month. Make sure you weigh your monthly expenses versus the salary you are being offered to ensure that it will be worthwhile financially.

Where is this company headed?
Do your research and ask questions to determine the stability of your potential employer. Also, make sure you know whether your position has potential for advancement. You don’t want to take the job and then find out that the company is going bankrupt in six months.

What type of commute will I have?
Gas prices haven’t fallen much in two years, so you need to consider how long your daily commute will be. Your quality time after work is something that is hard to put a price on, so if you’re going to be stuck in traffic for two hours on the way home every day it might require you to request more money.

Will I be happy with this position?
Unless you win the lottery and become independently wealthy, you are going to have to do some things in every job that aren’t enjoyable. That doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t be relatively happy with your job. Make sure the position involves responsibilities that will challenge you and not have you bored to death, waiting for the five o’clock whistle to blow.