Evaluating Job Opportunities

Once job offers begin to roll in, you'll need help trying to decide which position is the right next step for you. After all, this is an important decision, and you don't want to accept an offer, start back to work, and find out later that you made a terrible mistake. So what can you do?

Ask yourself these questions as you evaluate whether an employer or position is a good match for you:

• Does the organization’s business or activity match your own interests and beliefs?
• How will the size of the organization affect you?
• Do you want to work for a relatively new organization or one that is well established?
• Does it make a difference to you or your future if the company is private or public?
• Is the organization in an industry with favorable long-term prospects?
• Will you be satisfied with the nature of this position for the foreseeable future?
• Does the position offer you the level of challenge, variety, and authority you were seeking?
• Are career advancement and professional development opportunities available?
• How do you feel about the company's location and your commute route?
• Does the work match your interests and make good use of your skills?
• Are you comfortable with the hours?
• Will the salary and benefits offered meet you and your family's needs for the foreseeable future?

Although there is much, much more to the process of evaluating a job offer, these important questions will help you leverage the offer into a brighter future for you and your loved ones.