The exciting phone call or long-awaited email has finally arrived: you've been offered a job! But what now? Whether you're super excited and want to say "yes" immediately, are still unsure and need more time, or want to negotiate the terms, it's essential to respond professionally and make the most of the opportunity. But how do you go about this? And how do you know if an offer is truly right for you? Let us guide you through it!
Before you make a decision, it's smart to first think about what you find important in an employer. Consider whether the employer can offer you what you are looking for - is the atmosphere in the office good? Do you think you have enough challenge? And do you like the work you do? Then you can think further about taking up the offer.
Next, make a list of your priorities when it comes to fringe benefits. These are the extra benefits you can expect when you start working in the position. You can negotiate these conditions with your employer. 👉
It is always good to ask friends, family or acquaintances for their opinions. Ask questions like: What would you look for? What do you think is a reasonable offer in my situation? How do I ask for more salary? How did you negotiate? The experiences of others can help you make your choice, but ultimately you have to feel good about it!
To get a good idea of the offer, it is important to take a moment to check what the job description says and what others in similar positions earn. Check out a salary website like Glassdoor to see what is normal in your field.
Negotiating is the most common scenario when receiving a job offer. It is an important step in the application process and can lead to terms that are a better fit for you. Perhaps negotiating will get you a higher salary, better benefits or a finer work-life balance.
Starting the conversation about salary or conditions can be quite exciting. To come across well, it is important that you are confident and calm. Prepare well and practice conversations with friends or family so you know exactly what you want to say.
Determine for yourself the minimum you will agree to and be proud of your skills and accomplishments, but remain realistic. For example, if your salary requirement is much higher than average for your position, an employer is less likely to go along with your proposal.
Explain calmly and clearly why you want something different and what your expectations are. Also think about your position in the job market. Is there a shortage in the sector you work in? Then there is probably more room to negotiate. Explain what qualities you have and what the team can offer and that a different salary than in the first proposal is appropriate.
If you get an offer that completely matches what you are looking for, you may consider accepting it immediately. This may be because you are dying to work at this company and the terms are top-notch. Or simply because you are happy with what they are proposing. Is this the case? Then you can get to work on your professional "yes"!
Often employers allow for some negotiating room in their proposal. Therefore, even if you are satisfied, it can be smart to make a counter-proposal. That way you can be sure to get out what's in it. No shot is always wrong!
To accept an offer, send a clean e-mail. Make sure you read all the paperwork carefully and sign the contracts. In the email, it's important to clearly state that you accept the offer, thank the employer and let them know you're looking forward to it.
It may happen that you can't come out of negotiations, or an offer may not fit what you are looking for or want to achieve. In such cases, it is important to reject an offer nicely and respectfully. Be direct but polite: thank the employer for the offer and briefly explain why you reject it. Keep it professional; who knows, you might run into them again in the future!
It can happen that you don't come out of negotiations, or that an offer doesn't fit what you are looking for or want to achieve. It is then important to reject an offer nicely and respectfully. Be direct but polite: thank the employer for the offer and briefly explain why you are rejecting it. Keep it professional, who knows, you might run into them again in the future!