When evaluating a job offer, the most important factor I consider, besides the salary, is how close the offer matches my own values, career goals and interests. I have to evaluate the entire offer including the benefits and the job requirements in terms of my responsibilities and the expectations. Highlighted hereunder are the factors that I consider before accepting an offer. The factors are arranged based on their impact on my decision to accept the job.
1. Salary and allowances – the salary should be within the average salaries for the position offered. A higher salary is an added advantage.
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2. Job conditions – these include the responsibilities, job hours, the work environment, and risks involved.
3. Benefits – the benefits should be within the average range (at least 30% of the annual salary). The most important benefit for me is health insurance; however, other benefits are equally important.
4. The company’s values, culture, and the corporate environment – I am highly ethical and my acceptance of the offer would highly depend on the company’s values, culture, and beliefs.
5. The management style and training – My performance would highly be influenced by my supervisor’s personality and management style. I would also consider the training opportunities and methods offered (both internal and external), the potentials for further advancements (continuing education), and the financial support for such education.
6. Career paths and promotion potentials – I would also consider the company’s past history of promotions and the requirements for promotion.
If all the factors are perfect except a lower salary of $10,000, I would first of all express my interest in the job, show that I am genuinely interested, and has a realistic understanding of the benefits of the offer. I would then ask, in a very tactful way, if the salary can be negotiated. Throughout the negotiation process, I would be respectful and courteous. I would focus on my qualifications, experience, past achievements, industry average salary for the position, and how best I would use my skills and experience in realizing the company’s objectives. I would negotiate with flexibility and creativity. I would be very open to compromise.
