How to accept a job offer in the best way possible
While it may surprise some, there's more to taking on a new job than just saying yes. If you want to accept a job offer like a pro, take our tips!
Back to TopIt seems simple. You find an interesting job listing, you submit your materials, you earn an interview, you ace that interview and then you get the call. You got the role! It seems natural that you would say yes and resign from your existing position, right? Wrong. Now is the time to accept the new job in the best way possible.
Don't worry. We'll tell you how to do it step-by-step!
1. Adopt an "acceptance" attitude
A lot of pressure is placed on writing an acceptance letter or taking the phone call. But instead of focusing all your energy there, you should lead by being positive and making a great first post-interview "hello" moment happen, so that the employer remembers why they hired you.
You can do this by:
- Telling them you're excited and appreciative.
- Reiterating why you care about the offer.
- Coming to any pre-hire interactions in an open manner that is more about finalizing the offer than critiquing details.
2. Reply quickly
Even if you intend to negotiate, respond to their initial offer quickly and cordially. You don't want them to think you're not interested! You want to acknowledge receipt to reinforce that they made the right pick.
3. Clear up all questions
Once you have an offer, it's time to get on the same page. Some areas to focus on are:
- Salary – It's important to ensure the position matches your salary expectations. This will become a point of contention later if you don't.
- Benefits – Like salary, you will want to make sure you fully understand the benefits package, including any perks you will have access to.
- Hours – Review the offer letter to check that the working hours are listed, that you agree with them and to find out if they can be flexible, depending on your needs.
- Timing – See what the employer wants your official start date to be so that you can give notice to your current employer and start strong.
- Onboarding – You will want to know what the onboarding process will look like. How long will it last? Do you need to complete actions before your first day? These are all good things to know!
4. Negotiate, if necessary
Once you clarify the points above, the next step is negotiating the offer before signing. You need the offer to work for everyone involved so that it can pave the way for a long-term fit. Just remember to be respectful, grateful and clear throughout these conversations. That will get you further.
5. Formally accept
If you and the employer agree to the terms, you can accept by writing a letter and signing any contract they provide.
To write your letter, use a simple format like this one from Indeed:
- Choose a clear subject line
- Express your thanks
- Officially accept the job offer
- Restate the final offer details
- Confirm your start date
- Conclude with good wishes
Further examples and details about how to craft your letter are available in this article.
6. Be ready
Plan your next steps
Decide what your notice period will look like. By now, you will have already decided if you will take time between roles; flesh out what that time will be filled with.
Start shopping
You might need new clothes, shoes or tools for your next job. Or maybe now is the time to treat yourself to something special for your new workspace? No matter what "it" is, be prepared by purchasing it in advance.
Onboarding
Some onboarding steps may need to be completed before your first official day, such as submitting any contracts, tax forms or other relevant items that have been requested. You may also be able to pre-introduce yourself by replying to any welcome emails you get.
Soon, you'll be meeting your new team members, setting up your desk and having your first meetings. Good luck! We hope it's everything you wished for.
What's that? You don't have a job offer in hand yet? We can help! Browse our latest listings to get started.
Sources and inspiration
