JobBound

Thursday, June 25, 2009

After job searching for months, your first offer might feel like you've found the oasis in the middle of a desert. But it's important make sure it's not a mirage!

The Wall Street Journal recently published an article that gave insight about the proper steps to take before accepting a position. Even if you have been searching for 8 or 10 months, there is no reason to lower you standards when looking for a position.

Job seekers also should be wary of taking a title that's too far below their most recent position, says Allison O'Kelly, chief executive of Mom Corps, an Atlanta-based staffing firm specializing in flexible employment.  At least temporarily, a salary can be less important than a title, Ms. O'Kelly says, because "it will be hard to get back into the higher role." She adds that "people looking at your résumé will wonder why you were willing to take such a low-level position.

The article also says it is important to meet with your supervisor before you accept any position. You want to make sure you get along with the people you are going to working with - that way, you'll enjoy the job more!

Companies that don't provide a written offer may be worth avoiding, says Mr. Miller. And that's particularly important during times when many firms are struggling.

Verbal offers "mean you really have nothing to stand on because the employer can renege," he says. "If it's a legitimate job offer, everything should be in writing."

Get it all in writing. It's your safest way to make sure that all of the details discussed in the interview are carried over to employment.

The article provides more hints here.

Posted by Brad Karsh on June 25, 2009 at 09:43 AM

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