How to Accept a Job Offer for a College Graduate

You must be happy with a job offer before accepting it.

Accepting a job offer is not as simple as it seems. You must take a number of things into account before deciding to take the offer. College graduates usually apply for jobs with several organizations. The first offer might not be your first choice. What do you do when you still have to hear from companies on top of your list? If this is the only organization that is offering you a job, does the offer meet your career goals?

Instructions

1. Ask your prospective employer for additional time if you're still waiting to hear from other organizations on top of your list. Many employers understand a top candidate just graduating from college has other options to consider. An employer might give you additional time, provided it's within a reasonable time frame. Remember the company is also considering other top candidates eager to take their first job offers. You can expedite the process by calling your priority company to find out if it could make a decision within the grace period you have been given by the other organization.

2. Compare offers -- if you have more than one -- to ensure you take the opportunity that aligns with your career goals. Consult with a career services counselor, parents or a professor to help you analyze job offers and help you understand what each job offer means in the long run. If there are certain things you don't understand about an offer, contact the organization to avoid surprises once you commit yourself.

3. Evaluate other factors in the job, including the company's values, to determine whether they in line with your own. Look at the compensation package--salary, benefits, vacation, retirement plan--to determine if it meets your career needs. Some organizations allow you to negotiate a salary and benefits. If that is the case ensure to get the best possible deal before accepting an offer. The reputation of the organization matters, too. How innovative is the organization? An innovative company that is ever expanding is likely to offer you more opportunities for personal growth.

4. Write to the company restating your interest when accepting a job offer. If you received the offer through an email or hardcopy, you must respond the same way. State in the first paragraph that you're writing to accept a specific position. You have to identify the position by name. Also, thank management for having given you the opportunity to join the organization.

5. Withdraw your name from all the organizations you applied at. You must also notify the people who helped you to look for the job and those who served as references. If you had other job offers, write to the organizations informing them you have decided to join another company.

References

• "Job Web;" Evaluating Job Offers & Negotiating Salary; Thomas J. Denham
• "Job Web;" Managing Job Offers; Mimi Collins

Resources

• University of Notre Dame: Evaluating a Job Offer