A new job can be an exciting prospect, but don't make the mistake of allowing a hiring manager to ask all the questions during a job interview. If you receive a job offer you'll need more information to ensure that you understand all aspects of your employment contract, employee policies, and advancement opportunities along with clear information about salary and benefits. You may also want to ask questions to help you understand if the position will allow for good work life balance and if the prospective employer has a healthy company culture. The more you know in advance, the more easily you can determine if the new job offer will become your dream job.
The following are questions to ask before accepting a job offer from a new employer:
Companies usually create a brief job description when advertising a new job posting. Be sure to ask hiring managers if there are additional responsibilities that may not be mentioned in the job description. You want to walk into a new job knowing all of the daily job responsibilities that await you.
For many people, benefits are nearly as important as the salary itself. Ask for specific information about the benefits offered. If the package includes private health insurance, find out exactly what type of plan is offered. Retirement plans also vary. Ask for specific information about any offered benefits. Find out if there are employer retirement contributions, for instance, and when do matching contributions start.
Vacation time is an important part of the compensation package. How much paid time off is offered? Will unused vacation days roll over to the following year? Be sure you know all the details about vacation time before accepting a job offer.
Some companies are meticulous about onboarding and others are more lax. However, the initial training period is important, and you may want to know in advance what to expect. A company that is lax about the initial training period may be a red flag for job seekers.
The possibility for career growth is important for many people. Many companies promote career development as part of their company benefits. Before accepting a job offer, be sure to find out if there are career growth opportunities so you won't find yourself conducting job searches in a couple years when you're ready to advance. Moving forward in the company as a way of advancement may be what you are looking for from a current employer.
Your benefits and compensation package should outline sick time. The job offer should outline your sick time and other benefits. If not, ask the direct manager about providing you with written company policies associated with sick time before accepting a job offer. Also, find out if personal time is offered.
Before accepting a job offer, you should have all the information you need to know about the proposed salary. Is the salary negotiable? Does the company offer bonuses? If so, how are they determined? Are they linked to performance reviews? What is the pay period? The more you understand how the salary system works at this new company, the more easily you can decide if the salary and benefits are the right fit for you.
Before accepting a job offer that requires relocating, be sure to find out if relocation expenses are offered. Accepting a job across the country is likely to be a major life change that involves significant moving expenses. These expenses should be mentioned in your job offer or employment contract.
Before you accept a job offer, it's important to find out if the company allows employees to work remotely some or all of the time. There are many benefits to working remotely, including increased flexibility, the ability to work from anywhere, and reduced costs. However, it's not right for everyone, and it's important to make sure that it's a good fit for you before you commit to it. Talk to your potential employer about their policy on remote work and see if it's something that they're open to. If so, ask about the company's procedures and expectations for remote workers.
Accepting a job offer before you understand the company's culture is a dangerous prospect. While your immediate priorities may be salary and benefits, your happiness shouldn't be underestimated. A poor work culture will have you investing in a job hunt again in no time. What are the team dynamics? Ask questions about how co-workers work together and about the company's management style to get a better idea of the business culture. Talking to your prospective immediate supervisor can also help you gain an awareness of what it might be like to work for the potential employer.
Be sure you understand the start date for the new position. You will want to give your current employer several weeks notice. For advanced positions like upper management or executive-level roles, you may even want to give your current employer several months notice.
Accepting a job offer verbally is one thing, but it's important to receive a written, formal job offer before you make a formal acceptance of the position. A company offer should include much of the information you need to know. Otherwise, you should ask all the right questions before accepting the job offer.
Finding the right job can make all the difference for your life and wellbeing. Let Permasearch help you find jobs that suit your needs and preferences. Contact us to let us help you in your job search.
