"Congratulations – You’ve Received an Offer! Your research, preparation, and practice have paid off, and you are one step closer to starting your new role. Here’s how to manage the process from offer to acceptance..."
Time for Reflection
Take at least 24 hours to consider the offer before responding.
This allows you to overcome the initial excitement and evaluate the opportunity objectively.
If the salary seems insufficient, communicate your concern to us while requesting time to review the offer.
Some employers negotiate, some do not; flexibility depends on company policies, your performance at interview, and the perceived value of your skill set.
Evaluate the Offer
Consider more than just financial reward; factors such as job satisfaction, work environment, and career progression are also critical.
Evaluate aspects such as:
Office environment and culture
Location and commute time
Line management style and peer group
Potential for promotion
Car allowance, holiday entitlement, pension scheme, bonus structure, and other benefits
Flexible working arrangements
Life insurance, medical coverage, or other corporate benefits
Preparing for Negotiation
Decide whether your priority is career progression, opportunity, or remuneration improvement.
Consider: “Why should the employer improve the offer?”
Have a clear salary range in mind, including your absolute minimum.
Summarise the key benefits you bring to the role and employer to strengthen your case.
Communicate Your Expectations
Be open and honest with your consultant regarding your current package, future expectations, and motivations for seeking a new role.
Ensure any changes in expectations are communicated promptly to avoid surprises.
Clarify your total package, including bonuses, pension, and benefits, and indicate if you are willing to trade certain elements for other opportunities (e.g., travel, responsibilities, skill development).
Discuss and review the benefits you offer to the role and employer.
The Negotiation Loop
With the information provided, your consultant can negotiate on your behalf.
We understand the employer’s business needs, reward framework, and benefits policies, and are best placed to manage a professional and effective negotiation.
Negotiations may be protracted before the employer makes a final offer.
Direct Negotiation
Some clients may wish to negotiate directly. We will only provide your details with your consent.
If you prefer, we can negotiate entirely on your behalf.
Verbal Acceptance
Only give verbal acceptance once you are happy with the revised offer.
This should be in principle, subject to reviewing the written offer.
Verbal acceptance triggers the drafting of the formal written contract.
Written Offer
Read the written offer thoroughly and make notes on points requiring clarification.
Common areas to check include:
Start date and job title
Commission and bonus structure, guarantees, and timing
Benefits package, car allowance, flexible working arrangements
Reporting line and notice period
Raise any questions directly with the employer or via your consultant.
Written Acceptance
Send a covering letter with your signed acceptance.
Thank the offeror, quote any reference numbers, include job title and start date, and express enthusiasm for joining the organisation.
References and Resignation
Only provide referees from your current employer after you have formally resigned.
Ensure your current employer is informed verbally or via resignation letter before any reference checks occur.
Declining an Offer
If declining, remain professional and gracious.
Treat every offer seriously; future opportunities with the organisation may arise.
Follow up any verbal decline with a written letter promptly to allow the employer to consider other candidates.
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