Evaluating Job Offers

As we detailed in our last blog post, the decision to leave a job is rarely an easy one. This is especially true if you like your current position – but what happens when another job offer presents itself? How should you go about weighing the offer against your current situation? Or even one job offer against another?

It wouldn’t hurt to start with an old-fashioned pros and cons list. Here are some aspects to consider:

Salary

I hope that this doesn’t come as a huge shock to you, but yes, the money is important. It can come in many forms: hourly wage, base salary, bonuses, commissions, etc. One job might have a higher base salary, but the other could have the potential to bring in more money due to bonuses. Sometimes the comparison is more straightforward. Either way, make sure you completely understand the financial ramifications of all situations/offers. It is ultimately up to you to decide how big of a role salary will play in your decision.

Benefits

The benefits package included with a job is not to be overlooked. Talk with HR and make sure you understand what is included. Take a close look at the health/life insurance options, 401(k) matching, vacation days, and sick time (to name a few). A good benefits package can easily make up for a dip in salary, so don’t completely write off an opportunity based on the pay without comparing the benefits. Again, it is up to you to decide what is most important when looking at a job offer, but you would be remiss if you didn’t at least consider the perks included with each situation.

Schedule

Will one job require more hours or more travel (or both)? If so, carefully weigh the implications of a heavier workload. Make sure you can handle the lifestyle change, and above all, make sure that the increased workload is worth it. Also consider the commute that each job requires. Driving half an hour or more to work will really add up over the course of a year. It may even nullify bump in salary you receive. Remember: time (and gas) is money!

Culture

The work environment of each job should be a big factor in your decision. Sometimes this might even be a “gut feeling” type of decision. Let’s say you got a job offer that will pay you a little more, but you didn’t like the vibe of the office. Should you really take that offer if you love the work environment at your current job? Well, it’s up to you, but your overall comfort level and happiness should not be tossed aside in the name of the almighty dollar. On the side of things, don’t turn down a great opportunity because you are so comfortable in your current position. Leaving a place you are familiar with for a new job is uncomfortable by definition, but it might be the right decision.

Nobody said that world of job hunting is full of easy, black-and-white choices. Regardless, if you find yourself with any type of job offer you are already in a good situation, so don’t stress out too much. Consider your situation carefully because it is unique. What might be a great fit for you could be a not-so-great fit for someone else, and vice-versa. Good luck!

-Cobey Culton