evaluating job offers
Important
Factors to Consider
Congratulations! After a long job search you have
a job offer and are waiting to hear from other employers.
Evaluating the job offer to make sure that it's the right
one for you needs as much effort as writing a resume or preparing
for an interview. Being prepared to discuss salary is also
an important part of the process. Remember that the Office
of Co-op and Career Services Office is available to help!
Evaluating
Job Offers
Carefully weigh all the important factors listed below in
considering the offer and don't hesitate to discuss any questions
or concerns you may have with your program coordinator.
• Job content or nature of the work
• Your future boss
• Salary and benefits
• Co-workers and corporate culture
• Typical work week
• Location
You should promptly acknowledge receipt
of all job offers and promptly inform the employer of your
plans, which are outlined next.
Accepting/Rejecting an Offer
Job Offer Options
• Stall - Not Ready To Make A Decision: Express appreciation
for the offer. Tell them that because this is an important
decision you would like some time to carefully think about
it. Agree on a reasonable time frame to get back to the company.
You should not need to accept any offer on the spot. If you
are waiting to hear back from other companies with whom you
have interviewed, contact those companies and find out when
they will be making a decision, informing candidates, and,
if you can, find out whether you are being considered for
the position.
• Accept - You Really Want This Job: Show your appreciation
for the offer. Ask the employer to confirm the offer in writing.
Do not interview for any other positions. Reject all other
offers immediately by telephone or e-mail. Report your job
to the Office of Co-op and Career Services.
• Reject - Thanks, But No Thanks: Express appreciation
for the offer. Say something positive about the organization
and be diplomatic. Let them know that the position is not
a good fit at this time.
• View sample acceptance
and rejection
letters.
Ethics
Of Accepting Or Rejecting An Offer
Once you accept a job offer, even verbally, you must not back
out, or renege on the job, to work for another employer. If
you have any questions/concerns about this, discuss with your
program coordinator before taking action!
Good employer relations are vital to RIT's relationship with
employers, and you, the student, are a critical link in this
relationship. In addition, reneging on an offer could damage
your chances of future employment with that company. Therefore,
consider carefully before accepting a position.
• Discuss offers thoroughly
with employers so you understand the terms and reach a mutually
acceptable date to respond to their offer.
• Request extensions from employers if you need more
time to consider other offers. Do not ignore deadline dates
you have agreed upon.
• Notify employers that you are accepting or rejecting
an offer as soon as you make your decision - never later than
the arranged date.
• Once you accept a job offer, immediately inform other
employers who have offers pending. Honor your acceptance of
an offer as a contractual agreement with the employer.
• Cancel any other scheduled interviews or on-site visits.