5 Essential Job Tips - Tip 4 : The Offer by Matt Ford

Finding a new job or changing jobs is difficult but there are some simple things you need to know which can make the whole experience a lot easier and smoother. Classifind.com.au lets you search over 100,000 job listings from 4 of the 5 major Australian job boards in one place making the task easier. Even once you have overcome the obstacles of the application and the interview you still need to deal with step 4 - the offer.

Generally, if you get to the stage where a potential employer wants to offer you a job you will have been through several interviews. You should know, then, whether the job is right for you and have a good idea about what to expect in terms of job responsibilities and salary expectations. Some jobs require a huge amount of daily negotiation skills, such as sales jobs, however many do not and it is important to be well prepared when commencing this component of the process to apply for or change your job.

If you are offered the job during the interview, you should absolutely not accept the job on the spot. You can indicate the likelihood of accepting the job but you should wait for a written offer detailing your role, salary, benefits and other pertinent details, like the length of time before you get a pay review, etc. You need all the information to hand to make an informed decision and, since it is your career you are considering, the decision you are making is very important. However, if an employer is convinced enough to offer you the job during the interview then they may very well be prepared to begin the offer negotiations there and then as well - who knows, you could walk out of your interview with a written offer!

In terms of salary negotiation you are obviously looking to build on what you earn in your current role. However, it would be foolish to overstate your case. The employer has a range that they can work within, allowing room for negotiation, and you should be aware of this salary range. Aiming for 10-15% above what you currently earn is reasonable, and exceptional candidates can aim even higher. Once again, the more you can manage to find out, the better your chances of negotiating a higher salary. Asking questions during the final interview stages about things such as salary is acceptable and likely expected.

When you receive your written offer, examine all the details carefully to ensure it includes all the details agreed upon. Check the working hours, salary details, bonus scheme, holiday entitlement and any other extras previously discussed. If you're uncertain about anything, or find that any elements are missing, phone your new employer to rectify the situation.

Finally, you should not resign from your current job until you have a signed contract because if anything goes wrong you could be left in the lurch, and suddenly find yourself unemployed!

You can use Classifind.com.au to search for other similar roles, some of which may outline salary expectations, and use these are the basis for starting your negotiations. There are many resources such as this which you may use even when you are so close to securing your new job.

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