74 Davenport University Career Services Guide WHATTOCONSIDER EVALUATINGJOBOFFERS You have gotten through your interviews and have received the offer. Do not feel pressured to accept an offer on the spot. It is always best to ask for at least 24 hours after receiving the written offer to make a final decision, even if you fully intend to accept it. There are many components to consider before saying yes. Salary Can you live on this salary? Use the worksheet on the next page to make sure you account for your current cost of living and that your bills will not exceed your projected take-home pay. While your current expenses alone may not be a reason to negotiate a higher wage, having a realistic expectation of what the salary for a specific position based on industry standards should support your request. Before finalizing negotiations, ask about annual increases, what they are based on and how they have been issued in previous years. See O*NET OnLine, onetonline.org and the Career Services NACE Salary Calculator for more information. Benefits It is not always about the money! Benefits can be negotiable and can include: insurance (medical, dental, vision, life, etc.), vacation, holidays, flexibility, overtime options, professional memberships, child care, retirement options. Keep in mind that benefits can make up about 40% of your total compensation. Office Environment/ Company Culture Will you enjoy it there? What are the personalities of your team and will you be comfortable with the management? If during the interview you got the impression you may not get along with your direct supervisor, take that into account. Do your attitudes, values, and goals align? Is the office culture casual, business casual or business professional? Keep in mind what your wardrobe looks like; are you willing and able to buy new clothes, if necessary? How is the Commute? This may sound trivial, but focus on what your commute will look like every day. Consider high traffic times of day, gas, winter weather, construction, work from home flexibility and how far away you are from children, daycare or medical appointment locations. If you are moving to a different city or state, the cost of living will change. Use CNN Money Calculator for different Cost of Livings: money.cnn.com/calculator/pf/ cost-of-living/ The company may offer a relocation package if you are forced to move. 74 Davenport University Career Services Guide