Questions to ask Yourself before Accepting a Job Offer

Once you’ve received a job offer, you’ll usually have at least a few days to consider the offer and its accompanying salary and benefits package. Take the time to ask yourself a few questions and decide if this is the job you really want.

Have you been offered a Fair Compensation Package?

Money is by no means the only consideration, but you should at least make sure that you’re being offered a compensation package that pays you what you’re worth. Use salary calculators or other online research tools to find out what other people with similar positions are making—make sure to localize your search to your geographical region.

Will you get along with your Boss and Co-workers?

There’s no law requiring you to like the people you work with, but you’ll at least want to make sure you can get along with them.

It’s particularly important to make sure you and your boss will be able to work well together.

Will you fit in with the Office Environment?

If you’re more comfortable in a relaxed working environment, working in a very formal office situation might end up making you miserable. On the other hand, if your ideal job is in a very quiet environment with little socializing, a large and friendly office where water-cooler chats are the norm might not be for you.

Does the Company’s Culture suit your Own Preferences?

Some companies expect their employees to put in many hours of overtime, some don’t. Some have a very formal management style, others are more relaxed. Think about what you prefer, and make sure the company meets those requirements. If you simply can’t work long hours, choosing a company that expects it is not a good idea.

Can you handle the Commute?

This is a fairly basic question that you’ve probably considered long before getting a job offer, but it’s worth reevaluating the situation before you accept. You might have been fine with a forty minute trip to an interview, but making that trip ten times a week is nearly seven hours of commuting time.

Have you answered these Questions Already?

If you asked questions of the interviewer during your first interview, you might already know the answers to many of these questions. Determining the suitability of a position is one reason why asking questions is so important. Asking questions makes a good impression on an interviewer, but it also gives you the chance to find out if the employer is really going to be a good fit for you.

Need more help, please review our Free Interview Tips section.