So what should you do when you get to the next step of the job search?

If you get a job offer, there are a few immediate next steps you should take:

1. Ask any remaining questions that you have about the opportunity.

2. Ask to receive the offer in writing. You haven’t truly been offered a job until you’ve
received a written offer. Wait until you are a sent a job confirmation in writing before you
inform your current organization that you’re leaving or let other organizations know that you
won’t be taking their offers.

3. Negotiate a fair compensation package. Use online sources and your network to gauge
what a fair salary may be for your specific position. Don’t forget about insurance, retirement,
overtime, profit-sharing plans, stock options, vacation, tuition reimbursement, and other
benefits.

4. Ask for time to consider the offer. Taking the time to consider your options and verify
that all aspects of a job appeal to you is a good best practice. Asking for two or three business
days to think about it is a reasonable request.

If you get multiple job offers, you must weigh them against each other. When you’re
weighing competing offers:

1. Reflect on the different opportunities. Does one job align better with your passions and
skills? Which excites you most?

2. Consider key factors like room for growth and advancement, base salary, bonus potential,
long-term incentives, commute time, work hours, your fit with the organization’s culture, and
your confidence in the organization’s leadership.

3. Be diplomatic. Don’t try to make the two organizations compete for you. Instead, be
diplomatic in your approach. Only mention job offers if absolutely necessary, and say
something simple and professional like “I’ve recently received another offer. While I really
want to work for your organization, the other opportunity offers a more competitive
compensation package. Do you think you could match its offer to make my decision easier?”

If you get a rejection, you must keep in mind that you’re always networking and thus
should:

1. Politely ask for feedback. Understanding why one hiring manager decided to go in a
different direction may help you modify your approach and present yourself in a more
appealing light.

2. Thank the hiring manager for their time. You never know where your next opportunity
will come from. Ending your correspondence with hiring managers in a pleasant and
professional manner will help you leave a good impression and grow your network.

Regardless of the outcome, reflect upon your interview strategies. Understanding what went
well and what you can improve upon is essential to successfully moving forward in your
career.