Receiving a job offer is an exciting occasion. With today’s tough market, accepting the position could be a knee-jerk reaction. But before committing yourself to the new company, think long and hard about a number of work-related aspects. Sometimes these aspects are overlooked. For some, these easily made decisions turn out to be long-term regrets as they miss out on job satisfaction and engagement because of failing expectations. It pays to pause before you say yes. To help you prepare, here’s a short list of job features you should consider before saying yes to that new desk.
Company Values
Most companies, particularly small ones, have their own core values, or beliefs and goals shared by the business owners and those who work for it.
If a company hires you and, without your knowledge, the company’s values are opposite of your own, it could pose issues with your daily duties and relationships with your co-workers. Who wants to work toward something they don’t believe in?
Familiarize yourself with the company’s values before accepting the offer.
Other Employees
Co-workers can make or break a position. When you click with people in the office, your job satisfaction is sure to be higher. But if you despise your co-workers, it may cause you to hate your job.
If you’re unfamiliar with the company and the people who work for it, do some research and check LinkedIn or Glassdoor. And gauge as much as possible from your interview.
What’s the average age demographic of the other employees? You might find that working with people your age is more enjoyable because you’ll share more relatable ground.
Management
Bosses also play a huge role in your work experience. Your leader’s personal traits and leadership methods impact your position. You surely don’t want to work for an ill-tempered bully.
Evaluate the communication skills you see as you set up your interview. Did it take her forever to email you back? How is her tone?
Once in your interview, try to get a feel for the personality and management tactics of your potential boss. If you don’t click in the interview, it might be best to run in the opposite direction.
Personal Budget
As they should, people often take salary and benefits into consideration before accepting a position. But it’s also important to consider more.
For example, when you have to move for the position, there could be hidden fees. Will you have extra taxes? How does the cost of living compare to where you’re currently located?
Think about your living situation, your weekly groceries and your standards in general. Map out a personal budget and make sure the salary will cover it all.
Office Comfort
In addition to its inhabitants, the office’s comfort level can hugely impact your work experience. An office with no windows, for instance, is said to cost individuals 46 minutes of sleep each night. Such darkness could certainly be depressing day after day.
On the contrary, an office equipped with open windows, fun posters and free snacks could really boost your morale on a daily basis.
At the interview, picture yourself spending eight or more hours there each day; how do you feel about it?
Office Safety
It may seem unnecessary or minor, but it’s best to work in an office that has its safety protocols in order. Well-organized safety procedures could be the difference between life and death.
The office should meet OSHA requirements, having all electrical training in order. Consider fire drills, severe weather procedures and escape plans. If you have not been to the office before, and have been interviewed remotely, it is a good time to consider a quick trip before accepting the job offer or contact employees to know about workplace conditions.
Companies have these requirements for insurance and liability reasons, so not having them in place is a red flag.
Day-to-Day Duties
While a job’s title may sound appealing, you will be living the job every single day. Before taking the plunge, make sure the position consists of exactly what you think it will; not much more and not much less.
It’d be a shame to show up for the job only to find your duties stretch way beyond what you expected, or to find that you’re bored out of your mind. Ask around to current or former employees to get a better feel for what you’ll be dealing with.
Your Future Within the Company
Are you looking for job stability, or to progress quickly within your company? Different jobs come with different opportunities, and you should make sure your future employer has potential that appeals to you.
Try to get a feel for the company’s policies regarding promotions. Some companies base progression upon time with the company, while others base it upon performance. Know this ahead of time; you shouldn’t expect to move up right away in a company that only awards longevity of service, for example.
Keep these things in mind, while also remembering the obvious considerations like salary and benefits. Doing so, and refusing to enter a job blindly, is the best thing you can do to ensure long-term job satisfaction.
About the guest post author:
Sarah Landrum is a freelance writer and the founder of Punched Clocks, a blog on which she shares advice on navigating the work world and finding happiness and success in your career. Follow her on Twitter @SarahLandrum or subscribe to her blog for more tips on making your career a bright one.
