Should I accept this new job?

Knowing when a job is the right one for you is a very subjective thing, and is a decision that has ramifications in other areas of your life. Everyone has a different idea about what is of greatest importance, and what they are willing to go without, and it is gaining this insight into yourself that is essential to make sure you make the right choice.

Consider each of the following points carefully before accepting:

• First things first, you need to rate all components of the role and your decision in order of significance. Location, culture, flexible working, company mission, salary and opportunities to progress will all play their part in your decision making process, but to varying degrees. What works for your friend, isn’t necessarily the right strategy for you. Make a positive and negative list of what you think about your current role and company. Be self analytical about think what your deal breakers really are
• Is the culture the best fit for you; for your aspirations, your views, your workstyle - you’re going to be there for a large portion of your day so it is imperative that you work somewhere that you enjoy. If your interview wasn’t in the same building of your proposed work location, then think about visiting so you can get a proper feel for it. Ask questions, speak to prospective colleagues; don’t leave it until your first day to find out what environment is really like
• Research the company - their website should detail what their mission is – does this align with your values? Also look further afield on social media or news articles, is this a company that matches your aspirations? Will the role itself challenge you enough in the right way? What developmental opportunities exist and does this impact your decision?
• Ask questions of your prospective employer – and potential colleagues too if you can - find out about team size, a typical working day, any social side to the role. Is flexible working appealing so that you can juggle personal commitments with your role? Now is your chance to ask!
• Think introspectively about what type of setting you thrive in, and what hinders or frustrates you at work. Do you want to play a lead role in small start-up company, or do you really wish to be a part of a large multinational firm? Do you think that a highly supported setting gets the best out of you or do you work best with a degree of autonomy?

We’ve all had a job along the way which brought with it an acute anxiety each evening about what we were going in to the following day – don’t let this next role be the same. Make a list of essential criteria that you aren’t willing to go without, and then start making a shortlist of the roles that fit the bill.

It’s natural to have reservations about certain aspects of a role, but make the distinction between nervous apprehension and actual area for concern. Talking yourself out of something for anything other than a genuine reason will only cause you to regret it later on, so consider if this is your nerves sabotaging your chance at a promotion or a pay increase, or if your gut really is telling you that something about this role just isn’t right.

Ok, you’ve thought long and hard through the pros and cons of the role now. Still feeling excited about it? Does it still tick enough boxes for you? If it does then it’s time to take the plunge and accept the offer.