So it finally happened. You got a job offer. Go ahead, call your mom, and pop that cheap champagne. And then get back to business.
Now, it’s time for strategy.
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Before you sign that job offer or even give a verbal commitment, there are a few steps that you’ll need to take to set yourself up for success. We’re breaking it all down for you to ensure you’re making the best moves after the offer. So read on. And—oh yeah—congrats!
1. Be Ready for the Call
When HR calls with the job offer, you might be tempted to give an immediate response. The key here is to have a line ready, such as, “Thank you so much for the offer. I am so excited for this opportunity. When would you like a response?”
By using non-committal phrases like the one above, you’ll show excitement for the role while giving yourself time to make a well-informed decision.
Most companies will be more than willing to give you time to review materials and consider the offer. If an employer requires an immediate decision, that’s a red flag. Consider long and hard if this is a company you want to work for.
2. Review the Written Offer
You should receive a written offer letter from HR around this time. This is your time to review the offer amount and, if included, perks, benefits, time off, and a sign-on bonus.
To find out if the salary offered is in line with market standards, check sites like Payscale or Glassdoor.
When considering if your salary is on par, take a careful look at each perk and weigh them all against each other. For example, if your salary is slightly below industry standard but the vacation time is overly gracious, you may not need to ask for a raise.
3. Negotiate a Counter Offer
If the offer is below what you expected after factoring in all other company benefits, you might want to negotiate a more fitting salary.
Now’s the time to create a counteroffer letter.
Beginning your letter with a statement of interest and enthusiasm for the job, include your key selling points, such as how you plan to contribute to the company. Following that, write your counteroffer, a salary that should be supported through your research on the market, and the added value you plan to bring to the company.
Be ready for the company to com back, either rejecting or accepting your counteroffer.
Whatever the outcome, show your gratitude and leave the conversation on a high note.
4. Let Other Potential Employers Know
In case you were also interviewing with other companies, you’ll need to inform them you’ve accepted another job offer. A simple email will do. State to them something along the lines of:
I wanted to express my sincere appreciation to you for considering me as a candidate for the [position name] position. I truly enjoyed meeting your team and learning more about the outstanding work you do.
I am writing to respectfully withdraw myself from consideration, as I was offered another position that more closely aligns with my skill set and goals.
I wish the best for everyone at [company name] and hope that, in the future, we have another chance to work together.
Thank you again for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
5. Send a Thank you Email for the Job Offer
After accepting the job offer, sending a quick thank you email to your new boss and HR contact is a great idea. Not only does this help to show your excitement for the position, but it also works to keep you on flawless terms with the company as they finalize your paperwork.
Keep this emailed thank you letter simple. Something like this sample email would work great:
I wanted to formally thank you for the job offer at [Company Name]. I am very excited to begin working, learning more about the company, and finding ways to contribute my skills to the team.
Please reach out at any time if you need anything else from me. The best way to contact me is through email, but feel free to call me at [number].
Again, thank you for this opportunity. I can’t wait to begin working for such a talented team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
6. Don’t Update Your Online Job Status—Yet
Sure, you’re excited to update your LinkedIn and other social networks with your newly minted job title. But it’s better to wait.
Once you’ve been with your job for a few months and are sure it’s the place for you, it’s a safe time to update your social networks with your new job title.
Brush up on a skill to get a jump-start on that new job. Check out Mediabistro’s online courses to get started. Whether you’re looking for a crash course or a full courseload, our instructors deliver the most in-demand skills for today’s digital media jobs.
FAQs: Navigating Job Offers and Next Steps
Q: How should I respond when I receive a job offer call?
A: Express gratitude and excitement for the opportunity, and ask for time to review the offer details before giving a response. It’s important to communicate your interest while ensuring you have enough time to make an informed decision.
Q: What are red flags to watch out for when I get a job offer?
A: A major red flag is if the employer pressures you for an immediate decision. Companies should allow you time to review the offer and make a well-informed decision.
Q: How can I determine if the salary and benefits are competitive?
A: Use websites like Payscale or Glassdoor to research market standards for the position. Evaluate the entire compensation package, including perks and benefits, against industry norms.
Q: What steps should I take to negotiate the job offer?
A: Draft a counteroffer letter expressing your enthusiasm for the position, highlight your key selling points, and propose a revised salary based on your market research and the value you bring to the company.
Q: How do I inform other potential employers about my job acceptance elsewhere?
A: Send a courteous email to withdraw your application, expressing appreciation for the opportunity and possible future collaboration.
Q: What should I include in a thank you email after accepting a job offer?
A: Thank the employer for the opportunity, express your excitement about joining the team, and provide your contact information for any further communications needed before starting. Ensure to express positivity and graciousness in your email.
Q: When should I update my job status on social media after accepting a new position?
A: Wait until you’ve been in the position for a few months and are sure it’s the right fit before updating your job status on social media platforms.
