A number of factors come under consideration when you’re making a decision about a job offer. Obviously there’s “the package” – but putting the monetary value of the position aside for one moment, there are other aspects of the job to evaluate.

The Position

• Why it is available and how long has the position been open for?
• What happened to the previous employee?
• Have you seen a detailed job description? What are the specific responsibilities?
• Can you perform the responsibilities set out for the role?
• Do the daily activities actually appeal to you?
• Is there an opportunity for you to develop new skills?
• Are the goals set for the position fair, realistic or achievable?
• What is the growth potential in this role? Will it be a stepping stone to your next desired role? How does this position fit with your long-term career goals?

The Company

• Where does the company sit in its own market? Who are its competitors? What is its market share?
• How is business? Is the company growing, maintaining its size or shrinking? What is the potential of the company, and how will that affect your role?
• How experienced/respected are its management, and how long have they been there?
• Does the company have a high retention of people, or is there a problem?
• Is the company culture (and its values) compatible with your own?

The Boss

• How will this new role fit with your existing (or desired) lifestyle?
• How will you cope with the stress and pressures of the new role, and of changing jobs?
• How long do you think this job will keep you happy?