Should you take the job offer or wait? 13 questions to know for sure

Should you take the job?

I meet with many job seekers agonizing over whether to take a less-than-perfect job offer.

It’s not an easy question to answer because the right decision depends entirely on your situation, but there are questions to ask yourself to help you make the right choice.

13 questions to ask before accepting the job

1. Do you know in your heart that you will hate the job? If so, run, don’t walk away. If on the other hand, you are you just mildly worried about aspects of the position, be open to the offer or negotiate to make it more to your liking.
2. Are your family members supportive of you taking the position? Why or why not? Don’t rush into a new job without carefully considering their concerns.
3. Will it provide adequate income and benefits? If not, can you or other family members supplement your income with other income to make ends meet? If you are in desperate financial straits answering whether it pays enough may be a moot point if you need to earn money now no matter what.
4. Are you qualified? If you are too under- or overqualified, you could be frustrated or bored.
5. Are the company’s expectations for the position determined and attainable? If not, you may find yourself in the unfortunate position of never meeting their demands.
6. Do you expect to enjoy or dread your duties? It's a lo-o-o-ng day when you dread your job.
7. Is the commute bearable? Or is it in an area where you want to work?
8. Will the schedule work for your lifestyle and family?
9. Are you a good fit for the company? Are you willing to drink the “company Kool-Aid”?
10. Will the work environment be right for you? Will you be comfortable in your work space? Are the facilities acceptable? Is the location safe? Are you OK with the dress code?
11. Will the people aspect of the place be right for you? Do you have a good feeling about working with your boss and coworkers? Are you comfortable with the expected work pace?
12. Does there appear to be a future for you at the company? Is there a clear career path? Is the company well run and growing ... or is it in serious trouble?
13. Do you feel called to take the position? Sometimes you can feel like a position is meant to be despite your concerns. If you have that feeling, you might be willing to look beyond expected challenges.

So should you take the job?
You may not be able to answer positively to each question because no company or position is perfect, but you should be able to answer most questions positively … or perhaps the job is not the right one for you.

Share your comments!
What other questions should people ask themselves before they consider taking a job? Share your ideas!

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