Career help

How to weigh a job offer

Pay matters. So do the people, the work and the hours. Here's how to look at all of it. · 4 min read

Getting an offer is exciting. Before you say yes, take a day to make sure it's the right yes.

Get it in writing

Ask for the offer in writing: pay, schedule, start date, who you'll report to and any benefits. It's a normal request and protects everyone.

Look at the whole picture

  • Pay, and how often you're paid.
  • Hours, schedule and commute, or how much is remote.
  • Health insurance, paid time off and other benefits.
  • The work itself: will you spend most of your days on things that give you energy?
  • The people: did you like the person you'd work for?

It's OK to ask for more, politely

If the pay is below what you hoped, it's fine to ask once, kindly, with a reason: "I'm excited about this role. Based on my experience with X, I was hoping for closer to Y. Is there any flexibility?" The worst answer is usually "no," and the offer still stands.

Don't leave them hanging

Ask how long you have to decide, and answer by then. If you're waiting on another offer, it's fine to say so.

If you accept through us

Let your rep know. We love hearing good news, and it helps us take your profile down so other employers don't reach out.

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