Job Offers

Congratulations, you have been offered the job! What should you do next?

Rather than evaluate your offer merely on the salary, you must determine what the entire package involves. Don't feel rushed at this point. Remember, this is the first time the power has shifted into your favor - you now know they like you and want you.

Many people fail to work as hard at this stage as they have at each of the previous stages. Make sure you don't take this stage lightly. Your hard work here will help you considerably during the salary negotiation stage.

Salary is only one part of the total compensation package. Find out what is included in the total package. Below is a list of some areas you should consider as part of your total package. Examples are included under each area.

Money
Base Salary
Bonuses
Profit Sharing
Stock Options
Salary Reviews
Investment Programs
Grants
Flexible Spending
Pension Plan
Expense Account
Low Interest Loans
Comp Time

Position
Title
Responsibility
Support
Office
Reporting Relationship

Quality of Life
Vacation
Holidays
Flexible Hours
Work from Home
Club Memberships
Discounts
Sabbaticals

Health
Medical
Dental
Vision
Life Insurance
Disability
Maternity Leave
Prescription Drug Plan

Moving Expenses
House Hunting Services
Packing and Moving Expenses
Home Purchase
Temporary Housing

Perks
Car
Entertainment Allowance
Club Memberships
Airline VIP cards

Other Benefits
Legal Care Program
Tax Assistance
Educational Reimbursement
Cafeteria Style Flex Plan
Payroll Deduction
Child Care

If you need more information about benefits, don't hesitate to ask a company representative to explain them to you. Remember the power is in your hands, and you must make sure the job and compensation package is right for you. Also, you might want to get this information in writing, especially if you are receiving something that is an exception to the normal benefits package. When you have all of the information available, you will be able to decide what the real value of the offer is and make a fair assessment.

Always remember that the total compensation package is not the only thing you should consider in an offer. In addition to analyzing the package, make sure there is a good fit between you and the company and the position. Will you like the work? Do you like the people? Do you fit well within the work culture? Is it close to where you live? Is there room for advancement? Will it help you reach your long-term goals?