Accepting a job offer? 3 questions you need to ask first…

Accepting a job offer? 3 questions you need to ask first…

The search for the perfect job can seem endless, but sometimes, (if you’re lucky), the Recruiting process flies by. Before you know it, you have an offer, maybe before you’ve stopped asking yourself, is this really where I want to be?

As a Recruiter, I’ve seen candidates rebound too quickly from one role to another. Sometimes they take the job offer for the wrong reasons, and in these cases, they can end up back on the hunt for the dream job almost overnight –or- feeling lost in a role that isn’t what they wanted in the first place.

Your job search shouldn’t be a rush to the finish line. Whether you’re looking right after a layoff, or you’ve fallen out of love with your current position, you shouldn’t be looking for just a job. You need to be searching for a career that pulls your talent, experience, personality and what you love all into play.

Here are three questions you should ask yourself before accepting any job offer:

1.   Are you taking the job out of fear?

Maybe you’re ready to jump into a new position after losing your last one, or for months you’ve been trying to find another job because things aren’t feeling right in the office. No matter what the circumstances are, don’t rush into a life-changing decision like taking a role you feel uneasy about out of fear.

If you are anything less than excited about the position, then remember these two things: A) there will be another candidate who is and B) if your gut doesn’t tell you this is the right position then it probably isn’t.

2.   Why would you be accepting the offer?

You need to know you are taking the job for the right reasons. First, make sure before you say yes that the expectations and functions of the position are ones that you aren’t just O.K. with, but really excited about. Then ask yourself if the company industry, size and culture are all aligned with your perfect job requirements. At the very least, you should be able to see yourself there for two years.

If you’re taking the job to get into a company that you want on your resume, but you’ll be in a role that doesn’t have your first, middle and last name on it, walk away. You can always re-apply to that company later when the right opportunity is available. Make sure the role you’re accepting is one you can see yourself in for the long haul.

3.   Are you going backwards or forwards?

It’s not uncommon for job seekers to be going through burnout from their current role, or questioning their abilities and skills after the last one. Firings and layoffs happen, and sometimes they can lower your expectations for your career and your job search. Don’t let them.

Every move should feel like a step forward. If you’re settling for a position, there’s a good chance you won’t be satisfied. And if that’s clear, your employer won’t be either.

Need help finding that just-right job?

It’s not easy, but it isn’t impossible either. The right recruiter can help. Drop us a line, so we can give you some tips for the job search, interview strategies, and maybe even find you some leads you love so you’ll land your dream job sooner.

Meet the Author

Evelyn Vega is the Founder and President at Staffing Strong and the President of the American Marketing Association Phoenix, AZ Chapter. Since 1999, she’s made her career about supporting her clients in building meaningful careers and partnering with businesses in finding quality hires. In her free time Evelyn is a Girl Scout Troop leader and yes, she can help you order some cookies.

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