The Offer's In: Now What?

The interview went well-very well, in fact-and you'rethe employer to give you the offer in writing. The
anxiously waiting for the big moment when youwritten offer should include the starting date, salary,
receive the offer. What now? Ask the Rightetc. Also, at this point, you should reject all other job
Questions If you are still waiting for the offer, beoffers and/or job interviews. (Read on for
prepared to ask these questions if you don't alreadyinformation about rejecting offers.) It is considered
know the answers: * What would my title andunethical to go back on an offer you have already
responsibilities be? * What would the starting dateaccepted. Rejecting the Offer Even if you are
be? * What would the base salary be? (This is arejecting the offer, it's crucial that you maintain
loaded question that will be addressed later in theprofessionalism and be tactful. Don't risk burning
article.) * Would my travel expenses be paid for (ifbridges! You never know when you may come
there is travel involved)? * Are there bonusacross the company again. Express your appreciation
commission options available with this position? * Arefor the offer. Say something positive about the
there benefits (health, dental, retirement, etc.)company, and then explain politely that you will be
available? * What is the policy for vacation/sickdeclining the offer. Asking for Time The best thing to
holiday time? * Are there relocation packagesdo, regardless of the offer, is to ask for some time
available (if relocation is necessary)? * Is thereto think about it. You want to do this tactfully. Tell
anything else I should know about the position? Oncethe employer that you appreciate the offer and are
You Receive the Offer Once you have received theexcited about the opportunity but would like some
official offer and have asked the necessarytime to think about it. (Most employers, if they are
questions, it's up to you. You have the option toprofessional, will grant you this time.) Give them a
accept the offer right on the spot, decline the offer,date (only a day or two away) when you will get
or ask for some time to consider it. Even if the offerback to them, and then, regardless of what you
isn't exactly what you were hoping to hear (i.e., thedecide, make sure to get back to them. Knowing
pay and/or benefits aren't what you expected), don'twhat questions to ask before you have a job offer
be too quick to decline. Some points are negotiable.extended to you and allowing yourself time to
Accepting the Offer Even though you may be feelingcarefully weigh your options and contemplate your
a variety of emotions after receiving the offer, it'sdecision will help you make the best choice for you
important to compose yourself and expressand your career. Read More.....
appreciation. You may also want to consider asking