The first impression you make during a job interview is your selling point. In fact, 33% of recruiters believe that 90 seconds is enough time for them to give you a thumbs up or thumbs down. So, if you match your skills with an excellent presentation of yourself, that job offer will come soon!
However, no matter how good it appears on the surface regarding role description, salary and benefits, you must dig deeper before accepting it. Here are some questions to consider.
Can You Embrace the Company Culture?
You’re as productive and positive as your workplace. And, because you devote most of your day to work, you and the company must be on the same page regarding behavior patterns and values. So, before you put pen to paper, consider whether your work pace, ambition, and interpersonal skills are compatible with the company culture.
Reach out to employees if necessary (LinkedIn is your friend) to learn more about workflow, communication within teams, advancement, dress code, and other aspects that are important to you.
How Does This Role Affect Your Long-Term Career Prospects?
Back to first impressions. What is written between the lines of your CV speaks volumes. So jobs that lasted less than A Midsummer Night’s Dream are the last thing you want on your resume. Still, your decision should have a long-term impact, not just in terms of climbing the corporate ladder.
Assess the potential for gaining new knowledge and skills and broadening horizons. A healthy business climate leads to valuable experiences beyond simply staying in one job.
Is Your Technical Know-How Sufficient?
Almost every industry today is dependent on technology. For example, retail and agriculture, two traditionally non-digital industries, incorporate tech to improve efficiency. And with the rapid implementation of smart devices and automation, having strong technical skills in the workforce is more critical than ever. If this is not your comfort zone, you should try to master it.
However, if your professional path is closely related to specific software, internet tools, or ERP, learning more about the technical skills required for your role would be beneficial. Not finding it in the job description? Contact the employees and request clarification.
Are Working Hours Burdensome?
Do you ever forget to read the fine print? Consider what you want to avoid seeing written there and double-check it! For example, some shifts may conflict with your personal obligations. Perhaps you don’t want to work occasional overtime, or part-time doesn’t meet your current financial needs.
Check the company’s location and the commuting time you automatically add to your working hours if you don’t work remotely. So, before you apply for a job or sign the contract, do the math and determine whether it’s profitable. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Can You Balance Work and Private Life?
When it comes to time, it goes without saying that juggling work, family, friends, and hobbies is essential to your overall well-being. Even if your working hours are convenient, certain job positions may require your time after that, such as communication with clients, meetings with colleagues from other time zones, training, travel, research, etc. Plus, some employers oppose paid personal and sick leave and the right to take time off for national and religious holidays.
Which cup on the scale will be the judge? Suppose this initially distracts you from your private life and doesn’t make you feel good. In that case, you should continue your job search.
What Is Your Gut Telling You?
Let’s say the recruiter or employer sends you mixed signals, and you need help figuring out what to do. That’s the perfect moment to remind yourself that intuition never lies. Even though the brain’s rational part leads the way in business, it is sometimes necessary to consult your gut. If the offer makes you feel conflicted and you’re going against yourself, you shouldn’t take it. Your feelings are most likely justified. On the contrary, if you are energetic and eager, you should get this show on the road!
Choosing which road to take is often tricky, especially when several offers are on the table. However, you can make a well-rounded decision with research, weighing the pros and cons, and introspection. Then, just prioritize what matters most to you, professionally and personally, and let an open mind lead you to the goals you have set for yourself.