By Goretti Kimani
Getting a job offer letter is nothing short of a miracle these days, owing the scarcity of vacancies. It is proof that one has successfully marketed their skills in the job market and can now graduate from job seeker to employee. However, mishandling an offer may see one end up jobless or in a position they regret later.
Take the case of Andrew, for example. After two years of interviewing and waiting, he eventually had an offer in his hands.
Excited
He was understandably excited and immediately began celebrating. However, he failed to notice that the offer was due to be returned in seven days after completion of some preliminary documentation. Five days later, he signed and returned the offer but was time-barred, as he had not filed the necessary papers. He ended up being disqualified.
Before you begin to celebrate, it is important to first analyse a job offer. During the interview process, some things are left unsaid and may only become clear once an offer is made.
Ask yourself if the offer is consistent with your expectations from the interview. Are you up to task with the responsibilities? Are you happy with the job description? What about the notice period and salary package? What are the offer timelines and deadlines?
It is the responsibility of the job seeker to make an informed decision. Always seek clarification where things are not clear. Assumptions must be avoided at all costs. Remember you have only one chance to make the situation right and this should be done before you accept the offer.
Consider the opportunities for career advancement. Relocation issues should also be factored in especially for individuals with personal commitments that curtail their mobility.
Responsibilities
And the remuneration package should always be looked at in light of the inherent responsibilities the job carries. It is expected that compensation should be directly proportional to the responsibilities assigned and be aligned with current and expected figures.
And do not be afraid of asking for more time to carefully consider an offer. It is better to do so than to hastily accept an offer and change your mind later.
Even if you will not accept a job offer, always receive it with gratitude. Every rejection must then be handled gracefully. Immature rejection tactics such as ignoring phone calls and emails must be avoided at all costs.
Be grateful for each offer and treat all employers with decorum. This not only safeguards your professional image, but also ensures a soft landing ground for you in future.
And should you be fortunate enough to receive two offers simultaneously, take time to consider each in depth. Avoid simple comparisons, which tend to be shallow and biased towards factors such as remuneration. Rather, analyse the offers objectively and pick the one that gives you better future prospects.
The writer is a human resource specialist with Peoplelink Consultants Ltd. Email: goretti@peoplelink.co.ke
