With a new job offer comes a lot of excitement, however, you want to ensure that you think through the offer rationally and not jump the gun. What questions should you ask yourself before accepting a job offer?
1. Am I Comfortable With This Job—and Do I Actually Want to Do It?
Review your day-to-day responsibilities, and see if there is there anything you just don’t feel good about. Do you see yourself doing this job in the long run, or are you having doubts?
2. Is This Position Interesting and Challenging?
Be sure to think about whether or not the job will be enjoyable, so that you don’t regret your choice in a month or two. Make sure you’re not only able to do the job, you also find it difficult (in a good way) at times. Otherwise you’ll probably lose interest a lot faster than you think.
3. Does This Job Allow for the Lifestyle I Want?
Will your commute be awful? Will the hours be too demanding? How’s the company’s vacation policy? More importantly, does the job pay well enough for you to afford a lifestyle that is comfortable? These will all make a difference in how you feel about your job.
4. Will I Feel Professionally Satisfied?
Consider whether your position allows you to create value for the company and if the company in turn invests in your professional development.
5. Is This a Company I’ll Be Proud to Work At?
Whether you want to evaluate this based on your values or on the company brand, think about how you’ll feel to be associated with this company. Having pride for the work your company does is one of the intangible things that can make a surprising difference in how much you end up liking your job.
6. Does This Job Fit Into My Career Narrative?
Is this a short-term or long-term career move? You want to make sure you’re not taking a job just to run away from another job. Does this new position allow you to work toward a professional goal? If not, you may want to reconsider.
