Receiving a job offer is exciting – but it’s also a moment that calls for a clear head. How you handle it can have a lasting impact on your new working relationship.
Take a moment before you respond
It is perfectly reasonable to ask for a short amount of time to consider an offer, particularly if it involves significant decisions around salary, notice periods, or relocation. Most employers will expect this and will not think less of you for taking 24 to 48 hours. What is not reasonable is to leave someone waiting indefinitely.
Review the offer carefully
Before accepting, make sure you have a full picture of what’s being offered. Salary is just one element – consider the complete package:
- Basic salary and any guaranteed bonus or commission structure
- Holiday entitlement – the legal minimum is 28 days including bank holidays; many employers offer more
- Pension contributions – particularly the employer contribution rate
- Working hours and flexibility, including any expectation around overtime
- Probationary period length and conditions
- Benefits such as private healthcare, a company vehicle, life assurance or enhanced sick pay
- Opportunities for development, training and progression
Accepting the offer
When you’re ready to accept, do so clearly and enthusiastically. If you’re working through Personnel Selection, notify your consultant first and we will handle the formal acceptance on your behalf. Once accepted, you should receive a written contract before your start date – read it carefully and raise any discrepancies promptly.
Declining an offer
If you decide to decline, do so politely and promptly. The professional world is smaller than it seems, and burning bridges is rarely worth it. A brief explanation of your reasons is courteous, though you’re under no obligation to go into detail.
Handling a counter-offer from your current employer
If your current employer makes a counter-offer when you hand in your notice, think carefully before accepting. Research consistently shows that the majority of people who accept a counter-offer leave within six months anyway – the underlying reasons for wanting to move rarely change. Speak to your consultant before making any decisions.
