When a recruiter calls and offers you the job you've been hoping for, your first reaction is to whoop, high-five the nearest person and do a little happy dance. It's fine to do all of those things -- after you get off the phone. Instead, ask the recruiter any remaining questions you have so you know what you're agreeing to before you tell her you'll take the job. Keep in mind that once you say "yes," you've signaled your commitment to your new employer, so only agree if you're absolutely sure about taking the job.
If you still aren't sure about whether to accept the job after asking your questions, tell the recruiter you need a few days to carefully consider the offer. Don't let yourself be pressured into making a decision that isn't the right one. At the same time, however, do not drag out your decision. Generally, you want to respond within two to three days.
As soon as you have officially accepted a job offer, let other prospective employers know that you're no longer available.
Don't give notice at your current job until you have a formal, signed agreement with the company offering you the new position.
Step 1
Thank the person who called to extend the offer. Tell her you're excited about the prospect of working at the company.
Step 2
Clarify the terms and conditions of the offer. Ensure that you know exactly what the important details are -- the complete compensation package, when and where you'll be working, and what the company's leave policies are, for example.
Step 3
Verify that the job you are being offered, and the duties and responsibilities that go with it, are exactly what you applied and interviewed for, This will head off any unpleasant surprises later. If you have questions about your chain of command, work hours, travel requirements or other specifics of the position, now is the time to ask them.
Step 4
Give a tentative acceptance of the offer after your questions are answered to your satisfaction. Ask the hiring manager when you'll receive the written offer that confirms all of the details you've just discussed. Tell her you'll sign it as soon as you receive it and return it to her as your formal acceptance of the position.
Tips
Tips
Warnings
References
Tips
- If you still aren't sure about whether to accept the job after asking your questions, tell the recruiter you need a few days to carefully consider the offer. Don't let yourself be pressured into making a decision that isn't the right one. At the same time, however, do not drag out your decision. Generally, you want to respond within two to three days.
- As soon as you have officially accepted a job offer, let other prospective employers know that you're no longer available.
Warnings
- Don't give notice at your current job until you have a formal, signed agreement with the company offering you the new position.
Writer Bio
As a national security analyst for the U.S. government, Molly Thompson wrote extensively for classified USG publications. Thompson established and runs a strategic analysis company, is a professional genealogist and participates in numerous community organizations.Thompson holds degrees from Wellesley and Georgetown in psychology, political science and international relations.