Accepting a job is a big decision. Sometimes, if you really need the job, you might make up your mind that you’ll accept the offer during the interview process. However, if you have doubts about the position or you have multiple options, it can be harder to decide and you may need time to consider a job offer.
You really don’t want to accept a role that you’re not sure you want. It’s awkward and also a big problem for the employer if you decline the offer after you’ve already accepted – especially if they had to reject their second choice candidate. But it’s even worse if you start the job and then you realise very quickly that it was a mistake. It’s better to take some time to analyse the offer to be sure of your decision.
Job candidates often feel they have to rush to give an immediate answer. This is not the case. Employers generally understand that accepting a job is life changing and that you need to think it over before you accept a job offer. You don’t need to accept on the spot.
There can be several reasons why you might not want to accept the offer immediately. You could have received more than one offer or you’re in final interviewing stages with other companies and you’re likely to receive another offer.
Perhaps you’re dealing with a personal or family emergency and you’re too distracted to accept a job offer on the spot.
You can also be unsure if the position is the right fit for you and you might need a bit of time to decide.
Remember you are in a position of strength. The employer has read your professional resume, has interviewed you, and now wants you to accept the position. Consider the offer carefully and ask for time to do so.
However, it’s important to be careful about how you ask the employer for time to consider a job offer. You don’t want to give the wrong impression and jeopardize the offer.
How to ask for time to consider a job offer?
If you receive a job offer which you’re interested in but need more time, it’s important to stay positive and professional. You need to convey to the employer that you are keen and motivated.
Always start by thanking them for the job offer and by showing your interest in working for the company. Often the job offer is made by email which gives you some time, but sometimes it’s made in the second interview. In these cases, resist the urge to answer on the spot. Unless it’s your dream job and they’re offering you exactly what you were looking for or more!
Even if you know you want to accept the job, requesting time to consider a job offer gives you the opportunity to carefully weigh up the position’s pros and cons. It can put you in a stronger position to negotiate your salary.
After you’ve thanked the employer, ask if there’s a deadline to respond to the job offer. The employer is unlikely to say “now” as this is unreasonable, then you’ll know exactly how long you have. Typically employers will give you up to a week to decide.
How to ask for MORE time to consider a job offer…
There are a couple of tactics which you can use to buy yourself more time to consider a job offer. You can send an email asking questions about the job, it’s perfectly normal to request specific information about the salary, benefits, and perks. This will put the ball in their court and give you more time.
Secondly, you can negotiate. Not only will this give you more time, it could result in an improved offer which could make your decision easier. Aside from the salary, there are many aspects of a job offer which can be negotiated. Think about the whole package.
When you ask for time to consider the offer, be honest about your reasons. Perhaps you’re waiting for another offer and you want to make sure you make the best decision for your career.
Here are some example of how you can ask for more time:
“Thank you for considering me for this position. I am looking forward to working with you. Can you tell me when you need my decision, please? I have a few questions related to benefits that I’d like to discuss before making this decision. Thanks again for this opportunity!
“Thank you so much for the offer! It’s in line with what I’m looking for. However, currently I’m reviewing two other job offers, and I want to make sure I make the best decision for my career. Would it be possible to have a few extra days to respond to this offer? Thanks again!
How much time to consider a job offer?
Knowing how long is appropriate to consider a job offer is important as waiting too long to respond could cost you the job. Always reply to the offer immediately, even if it is to ask for more time to consider a job offer.
Stick to the deadline they give you. You don’t know the company’s time pressures so don’t risk going over the deadline. They could withdraw the offer and give the job to another candidate.
What to consider before accepting a job offer…
Whether to accept a job or not can be a complicated decision. There are a number of things to consider when accepting a job offer, which is why it is reasonable to need time to consider.
How to evaluate a job offer: Firstly, you need to consider the pay package. The salary is the most important part but you want to also weigh up the other perks.
If there are bonuses, free lunches, travel, or gym membership, try to work out how much these benefits are worth. Sometimes, the package with the highest basic salary isn’t always the best.
Aside from the money, there are a number of other things to consider before accepting a job offer. How happy will you be in the new position? What is the schedule? How long will it take you to get there? What’s the atmosphere like at the new place of work? If you’ve been working remotely during the pandemic and you want to keep working that way, ask them what their remote working policy is. Money isn’t everything. Your time and happiness are invaluable.
How to reply to a job offer
When you’ve made up your mind, it’s time to tell the employer. Even if you decide not to take the position make sure you let the employer know as you don’t want to burn any bridges.
How to accept a job offer: Your job acceptance email shouldn’t be long but should include a few things: thank them for the opportunity, confirm the starting date, and include your contact information.
You can also briefly explain why you’re excited to start in the acceptance letter. Although it should be short, take time to compose the email and proofread it. You don’t want to make silly mistakes and give the wrong impression before you’ve even started.
If you choose to turn down the offer, politely give a brief reason and thank them for the offer. There are more jobs out there for you. Make sure your resume is up to scratch by using an online resume builder to help get your ideal job.
