Evaluating a Job Offer

Congratulations! You have a job offer. Now let's see if it is a good one for you to accept. Unless you are absolutely desperate for the money, it is best to see how well the job fits with your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

The Company: organizational culture, lifestyles of employees, quality of higher management, stability of the organization and industry, prestige of job or organization

Details: location, work hours, salary, benefits, travel

Perks: support for continuing education, mentoring, advancement opportunities, training and development opportunities

Job Fit: nature of the work, level of autonomy, level of responsibility, variety of work, opportunities to learn and grow in the job/company, transferability of skills and experience from this particular job to a higher position in the future

Here are some questions to ask yourself.

1. How closely does this job match my career goal? A part-time summer job is more valuable if it will give you experience that will benefit your career.

2. Do I need any additional information about the offer or the position in order to make a decision? Write down any questions you have and be sure to get them answered before making a final agreement. Ask what a day might be like. Can you talk to an employee who has done this type of work? See if you can spend an afternoon observing another employee doing the work you will be doing.

3. Will the job work with my personality style? If you are a Guardian, will the job feel comfortable and have a good routine that you can follow? If you are an Artisan, will the job offer some sense of fun and excitement and keep you on your toes? If you are an Idealist, will the job be in concert with your deeply-held values and can you make a unique contribution? If you are a Rational, will you be able to gain a sense of mastery and competence from this position?

4. Are there any issues I might want to negotiate before accepting the job offer? Think beyond salary issues. What is the starting date? What type of equipment will be available for you? Does the job allow you to integrate work and school if it is during the school year? If it is a summer job, will you be able to continue part-time when school starts again?

5. If you are working with a career center counselor, be sure to talk the situation over with this advisor before accepting the position. People with this training have a great deal of knowledge that can work to your benefit.

6. Finally, Am I feeling good about working for this company? For all types, it is good to check what your brain thinks, when your heart feels and what your gut senses. If any of them say no, then the job may not be right for you.