What to Research Before Accepting a Job Offer

Congratulations! After all of the handshakes, resumes sent, and interviews, you finally made it to the last step - accepting the job offer. This milestone should be celebrated, but it is now your responsibility to keep yourself informed on what this job offer entails. Here is What to research before accepting a job offer.

Salary 

The salary is important to know before accepting a job offer. It is useful to do a quick search to understand the salary range of a person with your experience. There are great online resources for doing this. There are websites with vibrant communities of employees and employers that share their salaries and experience levels that will help guide you in your decision.

Benefits     

It is also essential to do some background research on your employee benefits. Medical insurance, gym memberships, retirement plans, and paid time off are just some of the benefits your employer may offer. Whether your goal is to receive tuition assistance for going back to school or help to grow your 401K, it is important to have an idea of the benefits that best support you.    

Corporate Culture

Are casual Fridays important to you? What about corporate retreats and leadership development programs? Corporate culture can play an important role in your success and the morale within a company. It is important to find a workplace that best suits you. Reaching out to your recruiter or doing a quick search in the “About Us” section of the company website can give you some insight into the corporate culture.  

Career Growth

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? Are you seeking a company that offers training programs and promotion opportunities? Perhaps, you may be seeking an intermediate position to keep you on your feet while you are searching for a long-term role. It is important to identify your career goals in order to determine how you can grow within a company. You can find out more about career progression online or with a conversation with your recruiter or the hiring manager.

Coworkers

It is important to build strong relationships at an early stage. Researching the members you will be working with helps you build rapport and discover shared interests. Getting to know your team members before you accept a job offer displays your enthusiasm and commitment to the company. Linkedin is a powerful tool to do this. The platform allows you to search for and connect with future coworkers and members of your upper management.

Before signing on the dotted line, taking the time to research these key aspects of a job offer can help ensure the role aligns with your career goals, values, and lifestyle. By evaluating salary, benefits, corporate culture, growth opportunities, and potential coworkers, you can make an informed decision that sets you up for long-term success. A little research now can go a long way in finding a job where you can truly thrive.