Understanding the Job Offer

You have done research, you have interviewed, written thank you notes, done all that you can and finally the day comes – you receive a job offer! You are so caught up in the moment that you say “YES” before asking some key questions.

Here are some tips of things to ask in the offer stage”
1. What does the compensation consist of – is it salary, commission, bonus?
2. How and when does it get paid?
3. Benefits –
a) When do they begin?
b) Is there a cost to you? If so, how much?
c) What is actually covered – medical, dental, vision, prescriptions, health club reimbursement?
d) Is there a co-pay for services – if so what is it?
e) What is the deductible?
4. Reimbursements? What expenses are covered and when are they reimbursed?
5. If travel is required, will they give you a company credit card or do you need to take on costs? Do they provide upfront payments to help cover travel costs? What is the per diem while on the road (what will they cover for meals)?
6. What is the start date?

Make sure you understand the job expectations before signing on, don’t set yourself or your hiring manager up for surprises after you start.