WHEN TO SAY “NO” TO A JOB OFFER- SPOT THE RED FLAGS EARLY
Comments (0) Know When to Say No:
There is nothing like receiving a job offer or interview opportunity after a dry spell to cloud your vision. It is hard to say “NO” to a job offer. You used the right interview questions and you work with a headhunter. Yet you jump at the chance to take the wrong job seriously.
Part of the problem is you are in denial. “The funding issue isn’t a problem. They are talking to the right people.” “Sure, four people in five years had this job, but I am a better fit.” “I am a risk taker and this could pay off big in five years.”
And part of the problem is you don’t know what the wrong job looks like. How do you spot the red flags when you are completely focused on the outcome? Create a Go/No-Go list before you even begin your job search.
The list includes the basics like minimum compensation you will accept and location. But it should also cover all variables relevant to a job. Imagine the job in six months. The thrill of the increased compensation is worn off, now what is important to you? Everything you feel is critical to your success and comfort belongs on the list.
- Compensation
- Location
- Reporting Structure
- Sphere of Influence
- Number of people to manage
- Corporate culture
- Amount of Travel
- Tasks
- Market Niche
- Work Schedule
- Funding
- Budgets
- Credibility of the Board and Management
- Financial health
- Public vs private
- Company size
- Office vs cube
- Holiday allowance
- Insurance and other perks
- Car allowance
- Education benefits
- Same sex insurance
- Review cycle
- Opportunity for longevity
- Conference and trade show participation
- Dating policy
- Firing policy (some companies routinely fire the bottom ten percent of employees)
You have created your list, now you have to use it. If you are willing to accept an opportunity that doesn’t conform to your list, the item must be removed from the list or you must pass on the job.
But how do you spot the red flags. Most companies hope to dull your senses with glowing reports of their growth, ease of getting things done or prospects for your employment. You are considering where you will spend the next four or five years of your professional life and with whom. It is incumbent on you to do your research; talk to former employees, Google the company, use glassdoor and other sites that discuss companies and their culture. Find other links at the Riley Guide. Talk to the Board Members and seek out vendors. Don’t forget to vet the investors.
Evaluate the company as if you were planning to invest $50,000. If what you learn tells you it is a good investment, go forward. If not, run away.
Themocracy