You’ve aced several interviews and have now been offered multiple positions – well done! But which should you choose? Making the decision can be stressful and overwhelming, but if you know how to compare each position and analyse their pros and cons, it can really take the weight off your shoulders.
If you are in the process of looking for a new job, there are a few important factors that you should consider if you want to secure the right role for you and have the best chance of long-term satisfaction.
Is the company a good fit?
Start by looking into the background of the company you are considering, with a particular focus on their mission, story, and culture. Compare your values to the values of the company. For example, if corporate social responsibility is important to you, and the company you are looking at isn’t geared towards it, it may create too much of a mismatch. Or maybe you are very people-focused and would prefer a role which involves helping people. You’ll also find out more about the company’s stability, reputation, and effectiveness, and you can even do a bit of research on the company’s management team.
Where is the job?
It’s a good idea to scout out the location of your potential new workplace. How long will the commute take? How much is accommodation in the area? Are there useful amenities in the vicinity, such as bus routes and shopping centres? It’s also important to consider if the position offers a hybrid working model, and how many days you would need to be in the office. These can be easy to overlook but are important in the long run, and they can have a big effect on your overall wellbeing.
What are the hours?
Will the working hours of the position fit in with your personal commitments and preferences? New parents, for example, may have different needs when it comes to their working hours, and value a more flexible approach. Or maybe the position involves international relationships, in which case you may be needed after regular working hours, which you would need to take into consideration when figuring out your work-life balance.
How much does it pay?
Of course, the advertised salary will be of the first things you look at, which is totally ok. Assess what’s on offer, including base pay, bonuses, and other benefits. Compare it with industry standards and your financial goals to ensure you’re fairly compensated for your skills and experience. Remember, there’s always room for negotiation if it isn’t quite there.
What will your responsibilities be?
Even if the salary meets your expectations, if you’re unsure whether you can handle the responsibilities of the job it may not ultimately be the best fit. Assess whether the responsibilities align with your skills, expertise, and long-term career goals. Also remember to clarify any potential growth opportunities and room for skill development, so you can align yourself more securely for the future.
Does it align with your long-term goals?
When considering a new position, it’s important to factor in your long-term career goals. Figure out where you want to be in five years if you haven’t already, and decide whether the positions on offer can make your goals become a reality. It’s also useful to reflect on your past career experiences to figure out what you found fulfilling and what you would rather avoid. This self-analysis will help you prioritise your preferences and make an informed decision.
What types of relationships do you want to make?
Consider the type of relationships you could benefit from in a new position. Do you need a mentor that can help you develop in a certain area? Or maybe you want the opportunity to lead yourself and would thrive in an environment where you can take staff members under your wing.
What’s the work-life situation?
Does the company you’re looking at value work-life balance for its employees? Look for indicators such as flexible working hours, remote work options, and policies that support employee well-being, including physical and social well-being and financial support.
What is your gut telling you?
Ultimately, you can weigh up all the factors as much as you want, but if your gut is telling you that something isn’t quite right, it might be best to listen to it. Accepting a new position is a long-term commitment, and you need to feel at peace with your decision. Investigate further if something feels off, but also don’t immediately rule a position out.
Once you’ve carefully considered all the pros and cons of the positions on offer, you can move forward with a greater sense of confidence, make an informed decision, and look forward to your future career. But before you do - if you’re leaving your current position, be aware of the counteroffer.
If this happens to you, go back over the tips in this post and carefully evaluate the situation so you can walk away from the situation with confidence in your decision.