Assessing a job offer - how to know if a job is right for you

You have been offered a new job, but how do you know it's the one for you? No matter the reason for switching jobs, searching for a job is hard work and can often be a stressful drawn-out process. If you are like most job seekers, you are delighted (or relieved) when a job offer comes in but before making that decision to accept, take the time to think about the job offer and your current role. Not sure where to start evaluating? Read through our list of guidelines that may assist and help determine if it is the right job for you.

Reflect on the job description

The job description will be the main basis of the day-to-day duties that you will perform. You don't like what you see you may want to reconsider. When making that decision you may want to consider:

• Will you enjoy them? Are the similar to what you are already doing?
• Will you be challenged? Are you seeking variety from your previous experience?
• Is the level of responsibility appropriate considering your skills and experience?
• Does it mention who you will be working with, reporting to or other colleagues? Can you work with them?
• Are you willing to make lifestyle changes to reflect what might be required? These could include extra travel, longer hours, too much responsibility?
• Is this a newly created role? Is the job description clear and concise?

Evaluate the company

Do you like the company? Your initial gut feeling will let you know if you fit within their culture and values. Google the company's website, check out any media if possible and evaluate if you could see yourself working for this company. Considering that you spend so many hours at work, you need to access your work colleagues, ask yourself if you will be able to work with them. If you found them annoying and frustrating during the interviewing process, and think they would be difficult to work with, then perhaps this isn't the company for you.

Review the compensation package

How does the salary that is on offer compare to your last position? Review the WHOLE package, does it include super (often a misconception), does it include expenses, travel or holiday loading? How attractive are the perks? It is best and easier to negotiate your package from the start. Don't undersell yourself, if you think you are worth it – ask for it.

The counteroffer from your current employer

Do you know why you want to move companies? Most current employers will always want to hold on to great staff so beware of the counteroffer (in the way of more money or promotion) if it arises. Counteroffers can be attractive but it is also important to think about the risks of accepting. People often get caught up in the counter offer incentive, do the following:

• Does the reason why you want to leave still exist? If you do accept the counter job offer will the workplace be tolerable?
• Keep in mind the company's intentions. Is the counteroffer for their benefit and not yours? Did they wait for you to resign to really know what you are worth to them?
• Consider the risk if you actually stay. Will they treat you differently knowing that you were looking around for other employment? Politics are in every workplace - like it or not.

Making the final decision

Accepting the offer can be a big step and you need to be clear and concise with your expectations of your future employer. Thoughtful analysis using the above guidelines will give you a greater understanding of which choice is right for you. If you are still unsure, seek further information about the company or use your networks to help your decision-making process. If you are using Paxus as your recruitment agency, question a Paxus Account Manager to give you insight into your prospective employer. They can give you their honest opinion to see if it meets your needs. There are a number of companies, for example, Glassdoor or Job Advisor, that will give you insight and reviews about the company from a current and previous employer perspective.

​After more career advice and tips?

Read our article on our top tips for effective job searching - find your dream job faster.