Why is it important to ask questions before you accept an offer? No matter how excited you are, you need to ensure that you understand exactly what the job is, what the company expects and how this job fits in with your career goals. There are a number of questions you should ask your potential employer as well as some questions you should be asking yourself. There’s more to consider than just how much you’ll be paid.
Questions to Ask the Hiring Manager
- Depending on what the offer is, you may want to know if the salary is negotiable. Is there any “wiggle room” in the budget for more money? You’ll never know if you don’t ask. You may be pleasantly surprised by the answer. Make your case for why you’re worth more and back it up with facts.
- What is included in the benefits package? Find out about the health plan and what is covered. Are there multiple plans available? Will it cover prescriptions? How much does the company pay and how much will you be paying for the coverage? Is there a dental and vision option? Health care is expensive and you need to know that you have good health care through your job. Ask when the coverage begins… is there a waiting period?
- Is there a retirement program? Many companies have a 401(k) or some other type of plan. Find out the details of how and when you’re eligible and if the company does any matching or has additional investment options.
- What are the vacation and sick leave policies? People get sick as well as need time off to recharge. A good employer will be happy to share their leave policies, whether for sickness, personal or parental time, or paid or unpaid time off. Find out how you accrue vacation time and how many sick days are given.
- Clarify your role and title. Make sure you truly understand the responsibilities of the job as well as how this position fits into the company structure. How will success be measured and how often will you be reviewed? Make sure you know what your schedule is (shifts, days, holidays) and if there is any flexibility to make changes.
- What is the company culture? How does the company manage work-life balance? Can you have a tour of the building to see where you’d be working? Is the environment casual or more formal? Do teams socialize outside of work? Are you encouraged to ask questions and make suggestions?
- Ask about your team. Find out who you will report to and what their leadership style is. How many people are on your team and how is the work divided? Can you meet some of your team members ahead of time? Is there someone you can go to for questions and guidance on the job?
- Career Development. Does the company offer any continuing education resources? What is the training like for this job? Is there an option for additional training and development opportunities? What is the average amount of time someone spends in this role?
- Ask for the offer in writing and when they need your answer. You MUST get the offer as well as any benefits and other perks in writing. You cannot afford to show up on day 1 and discover the role has changed or you no longer have access to a benefit that was discussed.
You don’t have to accept the offer on the spot, but find out when they need your answer and take some time to evaluate everything to ensure it’s the right fit for you. If you decide not to take the offer, do it gracefully. There are many different reasons for turning down an offer…it may simply not be the right fit for you. Be polite.
Questions You Should Ask Yourself
- Are you really excited about this job? Are you genuinely excited about this job and not just the fact that you got an offer? Does it use your talents and skills and will it advance your career?
- Do you truly understand the duties and the work you’ll be doing every day? Make sure you have a solid understanding of the job, your schedule, and how you’ll be evaluated.
- Is the salary in line with other positions like it in your area? Is the pay sufficient for your needs? Do you understand the benefits package and when you’ll be eligible?
- Are you comfortable with your soon-to-be supervisor? Will you fit in well with his/her leadership style and will you be given the tools and support needed to succeed?
Remember, if this job isn’t a good fit you can always decline. Saying no is always an option, just do it with grace and don’t burn any bridges. You don’t want to have to go through this process again in just a few months if the job doesn’t work out.