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How to Choose Between Two Job Offers

Topics: Career Advice
job offers
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If you’re lucky enough to be choosing between job offers, you know that it isn’t an easy decision. Sure, this is a good problem to have — but how are you going to decide?

There are a few important factors that aren’t immediately obvious that you should probably keep in mind.

1. Compensation

Of course, salary is a key variable when you’re trying to decide between multiple offers. But, don’t just think about your starting salary when weighing your options. There’s a lot more to compensation than just salary. Don’t forget about benefits like health insurance, 401(k) match, educational assistance and paid time off.

2. Company Culture

Compensation is important, and it’s probably what comes to mind first when you’re making this decision. But, something like company culture can really make or break how happy you are with your job. So, consider this aspect of your two offers carefully as well.

Think back to your interview and any impressions you developed then. Also, do some research online, or through your professional network, to learn a bit about the reputations of these organizations. Ask yourself, will you be happy working there? All the money in the world won’t matter if you’re too miserable to be successful.

3. Flexibility

A lot of workers say they’d like to have the option to telecommute. These days, more people are making that a reality, at least part of the time. The latest flexible work stats show that 40 percent more U.S. employers are now offering flexible workplace options than they did five years ago.

Still, only seven percent of companies say that they give this opportunity to most of their employees. So, if a flexible work option sounds appealing to you, consider exploring this possibility further with your prospective employers. It could make a huge difference in the overall quality of your work experience.

4. The Long-Term

Carefully consider the potential long-term trajectory at each of these organizations. Think about where you want your life and career to be in a few years. Which one of these jobs is going to help you get closer to the future you’re dreaming of?

You may want to talk with the hiring managers at each employer to get a sense of how they envision you fitting in over the long-term. It could be helpful to gain a better understanding of what opportunities could be available further down the road.

5. Your Priorities

At Forbes, Lisa Quast recommends an interesting method for deciding between offers. Sit down with a paper and pen and get ready to do some writing. First, brainstorm a list of all of the things that matter most to you about your future career. Then, prioritize the list from most important to least important. Next, analyze how well each of the job offers satisfies these priorities. Go item by item and weigh the pros and cons. This kind of exercise could help you hone in on the opportunity that’s best for you.

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