It is always exciting when, following the recruitment process, the employer returns to you with positive feedback and a job offer. But the decision can be stressful. Here are the things to consider before accepting a job proposal, including what to look for when evaluating a job offer.
The job offer is a document issued by the employer and represents its commitment towards a future collaboration. It contains the essential information, which will then be found in the employment contract. It is often transmitted both verbally and in writing and requires a response within a limited timeframe.
When we extend you an offer to join the Michelin team, the offer will include the following information: your name, address, identification data, classification, internal position name, department, job-specific risks (if the case), responsibilities, evaluation criteria, the start date, the duration of the employment contract, the number of vacation days, the monthly base salary, other bonuses (if the case), benefits, duration of legal notice, duration of work (number of hours worked per week), and length of probation period.
Before accepting the collaboration proposal, evaluate it carefully so that you can make an informed decision. The last thing you want to do is make a rushed decision, which you might regret later.
If you have two offers to consider, use a comparison list with pros and cons to help you decide which one to accept.
Weigh the pros and cons and take the time to analyze the offer, to be sure that the position is right for you.
There can be very good reasons to give a negative answer. It is perfectly acceptable to ask the employer for more time to think if you are unsure, and to ask for additional information.
Here are some things to evaluate before accepting:
Make sure you consider the entire compensation package, not just the salary.
The base salary is essential, and during the previous steps of the recruitment process, you have probably discussed the salary with the recruiter, even if in general terms. Therefore, there is a good chance that the salary offered will be close to what you are looking for. It can be useful for you to know what jobs with the same responsibility pay in similar industries.
Benefits are part of the compensation package and can make a difference if the salary is lower than expected. This is especially true when it comes to health insurance / medical service subscription, transportation costs, reimbursement of certain expenses, meal vouchers and so on.
If you are unsure of the benefits, ask for additional information or clarification.
Did you understand the responsibilities of the job – specifically what you will do in your role?
Make sure it will allow you to use the skills that are most important to you. Evaluate the trust you have in the company and its products / services. Be convinced that you want to contribute to the results of the organization and that you will enjoy working with the people you met during the recruitment process.
Is this role a lateral move or a promotion? The role / function is a subjective consideration, but it is important that it is aligned with your professional training and expectations.
If you want to develop your skills, make sure the organization focuses on developing its talents through training, mobility and internal promotion. Evaluate whether training will be available or not. Identify existing development paths and what will be needed to pursue them.
In today's labor market, no position is forever. With every step you take you need to follow your career plan. Find out what the real chances of promotion are and be open to lateral moves that can bring significant improvements to your skills.
It can be difficult to assess the work environment until you actually work there. But interactions with the future manager or colleagues should be a good enough indicator. Make sure you ask questions about the most important aspects for you. You can also learn a lot from looking for former company employees in your network or from their reviews on dedicated sites.
Find out about the company's reputation and be convinced that you identify with its values.
Once you have identified the most important elements of the job offer, compare the list of advantages and disadvantages with your current job. If one outweighs the other, the decision will be easier.
Regardless of the choice made, whether or not you will accept the job offer, inform the employer about your decision in writing, politely and concisely.
