5 Factors to Consider Before Taking That Job Offer

Finding a job post-graduation is a goal for just about every college student, and getting more than one offer is ideal.

If you happen to be one of the lucky ones, you’re struggling to figure out which job offer you should take. Whether you’re preparing for your first job or taking the next step in your career, consider these factors when deciding which job offer is right for you:

1. Benefits: For many recent college graduates, having a comprehensive benefits package is equally as significant as a competitive starting salary. In fact, new research from the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists finds that millennials are more interested in protecting themselves from various life risks and planning for their long-term futures than past generations. Access to quality health, dental and retirement plans can make a big difference in your future and your quality of life, and provide financial stability for you and your family, should you encounter unexpected obstacles.
2. Workplace culture: Since you’ll be spending most of your time at work each day, study each company’s organizational culture and decide whether or not it is a good match for your working style. Are people supportive, or competitive? Will you work on a team, or individually? Do the company’s values align with your own? All of these questions can help you determine if whether a company is the right fit for you, both personally and professionally.
3. Proximity: Bear in mind the location of the company, and decide if you’re willing to relocate for your job or spend several hours commuting to and from work each day. If you’re planning on making it home for dinner each night or dropping the kids off at school on your way to work, scratch far-flung opportunities off your list and focus on those closer to home.
4. Opportunities for advancement: Take your long-term career goals into account, and evaluate which role or organization can best help you achieve those goals. Choose a role that allows you to develop the skills you’ll need to be successful, and offers opportunities to take on additional responsibilities and advance to the next level.
5. Opportunities to add value: You’re more likely to succeed at a job that you enjoy doing, and your organization will benefit as a result. Think about how well each role aligns with your strengths and personal interests, and if you would feel fulfilled by this work, even if it meant putting in some extra hours from time to time. Choose the company or position that will allow you to contribute something of value while feeling good about the work that you do.

While it may be tempting to evaluate a job offer based solely on your starting salary, it’s worth your time to reflect on how other factors, such as work/life balance and advancement opportunities, will affect your career development and overall job satisfaction. Thinking critically about how a position fits in with both your professional and personal goals will help you make the right decision.