The answer is not always in salary alone... ask these questions to determine your entire package.

Questions to Ask to Help Evaluate Job Offers

Adapted from Planning Job Choices: by Keith Johnson

The Position

• Why is the job open?
• How long has it been open?
• What happened to the previous incumbent?
• What would your specific responsibilities be?
• Are the goals set for the position realistic and attainable?
• Can you successfully accomplish the responsibilities of the position?
• What is your growth potential in this position?
• How does this position fit into your short-term and long-term goals?
• Do the daily work activities appeal to you?
• Will you be developing new skills and experience?
• Are the demands of the job compatible with your desired lifestyle?

Your Supervisor

• How long has he/she been in the position?
• To whom does he/she report?
• What is his/her growth potential?
• Do you think you can work well with this person?

Future Opportunities

• What might I expect to be doing over the next three to five years?
• How much freedom do employees have to determine their own job movement and duties?
• What could be done if an employee does not feel challenged or satisfied?
• Are lateral or rotational job moves available to provide broader experience?
• How do promotional opportunities become available?

Employer's Continuing Education Programs

• How are employees able to stay current on changes and trends in their field?
• How are employees encouraged to continue their professional development over the long term?
• How have employees taken advantage of employer sponsored continuing education programs?
• What kind of training is provided for prospective supervisors or managers?

Quality of Management

• What is the quality of the company's management?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of management?
• What are management's basic philosophies in managing the business and employees?
• What do your employer's managers and supervisors have in common?
• How does a person become a manager or supervisor at this employer?
• Does the management team consist of new hires or people promoted from within?
• Does the company have a high retention rate of employees or a problem with attrition?

Employer's Values

• What are the employer's values? What does the employer stand for?
• How are the employer's values reflected in everyday activities?
• What kind of people are most successful or satisfied at your company?

Employer's Compensation Philosophy

• What is the employer's compensation philosophy compared with other employers?
• What kind of increase might I expect over the first several years?
• How are individual increases determined?
• How are changes to the benefits package made to keep it up to date with employee needs?