Receiving a job offer is one of the most exciting feelings imaginable, especially if you have been unemployed for an extensive amount of time. However, before you sign your name on the dotted line, you must review the offer; this is a major decision, and you must understand if this is a good fit. Here are three aspects to consider when you evaluate a job offer in 2021.
Compensation and Perks
Reviewing the salary of the position will always be crucial. However, there are other compensation offerings and perks to consider while you evaluate a job offer in 2021. It’s essential to review the salary, commission structure, bonuses, and other items that affect your income. You must also take a look at the benefits package to ensure this is a position that can support your retirement goals and medical needs. Don’t jump to signing the offer letter before you review the entire compensation package. If the numbers are not precisely where they should be, prepare to negotiate. Do some research on the compensation of other professionals with similar experience in your location. Working from home may impact salaries in the future, so be sure you are satisfied with the compensation before accepting the position.
Flexibility
If the pandemic has taught us anything is that flexibility is vital for both employers and workers. It is essential to understand what kind of flexibility the employer offers while you evaluate a job offer. After the virus is in the rearview mirror, will this employer return to its old, rigid ways? Or are they committing to being innovative, open-minded, and adaptable? For example, are you going to have the option to work remotely periodically or have a hybrid schedule where you work both from the office and home? These are questions that you will want to answer before signing your offer letter. It is important for your future employer to offer flexibility when needed to take care of you and your family.
DEI Initiatives
When we were in a candidate-driven market a couple of years ago, many job seekers were searching for a job with the right “culture fit.” However, finding a company with a good culture isn’t everything. When evaluating a job offer this year, take a good look at the company’s diversity, equality, and inclusion initiatives. But how can you analyze a company’s DEI initiatives without being part of the team yet?
First of all, the best way to understand an employer’s DEI programs is to ask about them in your interview. Ask the hiring manager to elaborate on them and provide examples of how the company supports them. Additionally, you can do some research online to understand them better. Review the company’s core values, mission statement, and online reviews from past and current employees. You can also see what people are saying about them on social media. DEI will be an essential item to consider with any future company, and you want to ensure it’s a priority for your prospective employer.
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