Careers in Transition, LLC

Additional Factors to Consider

Searching for a position is difficult. After spending many hours on a search, making a careful decision regarding a job offer is important. Getting an offer does not necessarily mean you will take the job. Most employers will not expect you to make a decision on the spot. You will probably be given a week or more to make up your mind. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages of the job will help you make a more informed decision, rather than deciding on impulse. There are some general parameters you should follow when evaluating job offers. How well the employer's values match your own is key to making a good decision. Consider ranking the following work values in order of importance by using this scale: 1-very important, 2-important, 3-somewhat important, 4-not important.

The Job

1. Duties and responsibilities
2. Match for values/interests/skills
3. Personalities of supervisors and colleagues
4. Variety of work assignments
5. Opportunity for individual achievement
6. Exposure to outstanding colleagues
7. Opportunity to work independently
8. Opportunity and frequency of travel
9. Overtime
10. Opportunity to apply academic background
11. Social significance of job
12. Physical environment and working conditions
13. Pressure and pace of work; turnover
14. Intellectual stimulation

The Organization

1. Technologically innovative
2. High involvement in research and design
3. Management styles
4. Opportunities for growth and advancement
5. Layoffs and restructuring
6. Reputation and image of employer
7. Financial stability and growth prospects
8. Salary, benefits, and compensation
9. People in top-level positions
10. Personnel policies and flex-time
11. Training and continuing education
12. Required relocations and transfers
13. Public or private employer
14. Well established vs. fledgling company

1. Growth history
2. Future need for goods and services
3. Dependence on the business cycle
4. Dependence on government policies and programs
5. Long-term future potential
6. Record of layoffs or downsizing

The Location

1. Proximity of graduate schools
2. Opportunity for partner's career
3. Climate
4. Cost of living; distance from work
5. Community life; environment
6. Location of company headquarters and branches