Receiving multiple job offers can be both exciting and stressful. It took months, if not longer, of sending out your resume, filling out applications, scheduling and attending interviews and its finally paid off! Even if the offers have similar salaries or benefits, there are a multitude of other factors to take into consideration.
Gather All of the Information
Firstly, to confirm an offer, make sure to get everything in writing. You should have a formal offer letter detailing all important information. Gather all of the information you can so you can make a confident decision. Salary is just the beginning – ask about their health insurance as well as additional benefits like pet insurance, tuition reimbursement or gym memberships. What do they do to improve and maintain employee engagement and appreciation? Is there a holiday or end of year celebration? Do they offer flex time in the summer months? What is there PTO, vacation or sick time policy?
Comparison
Make a side-by-side list of all opportunities. Breaking down the offer into smaller components can help you analyze the bigger picture. Compare everything from salary to commute time to company reputation. The list will vary from industry to industry, but here are few suggestions to consider in your list:
- Salary
- Bonus Opportunities
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
- Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
- Additional Benefits
- PTO
- Employee Appreciation/Engagement Events
- Parental Leave
- Business Hours
- Work-Life Balance
- Commute Time
- Growth Opportunities
- Reputation
- Mission, Vision and Values
What Really Matters to You
We all have our own priorities when looking for a new role, so point out what is important to you. What attracted you to the company or job in the first place? Are you thinking of continuing your education? You might appreciate a generous tuition reimbursement policy. Is culture important to you? It's always a good idea to reach out to current employees (LinkedIn or referrals from HR or the interview team). Current and former employees can give valuable insights into the company's culture and how they value employees.
Listen to Your Gut
Make note of anything you would consider a red flag throughout the interview process.
Did the interviewer give you their full attention? Were they checking emails or taking calls during your conversation? Did the interview last until 7 pm - Were there employees still working at that time? What was your candidate experience like? Did you get feedback in a reasonable time frame? Were they respectful of your time when scheduling?
Did you enjoy the individuals you spoke with during the interview process? These are people you likely will be reporting to, communicating and working with 40+ hours a week. Don't push aside your gut feelings for a larger salary or more prestigious job title.
Turn Down Other Offers Respectfully
You've made your decision - congrats! But, you still need to let the other company's know that you respectfully decline. Do not ghost a hiring manager or recruiter. You never know what will happen in the future and burning a bridge would not be in your best interest.
