Wait for the written offer
A verbal congratulations is not enough to price a move, leave another job or stop interviewing. Ask for the role, compensation, location, start date, reporting line, contingencies and response deadline in writing.
Verify the employer and recruiter independently before sharing sensitive onboarding information. An interview and polished offer letter do not eliminate job-scam risk.
Convert the offer into first-year value
Use the same categories for every option, including staying in a current role.
- Guaranteed cashSeparate base pay and guaranteed stipends from discretionary bonuses, commissions or equity with uncertain value.
- Time and locationPrice expected hours, commute, travel, remote rules, relocation and the cost of living where the work must happen.
- Health and protectionCheck eligibility dates, employee premiums, deductibles, leave, disability coverage and what happens before benefits begin.
- Retirement and ownershipDistinguish employer contributions, vesting, equity terms and money that requires your own contribution.
- Role trajectoryEvaluate supervision, training, work scope, review cycles and whether the title matches the actual responsibilities.
Clarify the terms that change the decision
Ask focused questions before treating ambiguity as a benefit.
- ClassificationConfirm employee or contractor status, exempt or nonexempt treatment where relevant, and who handles payroll.
- Work arrangementAsk which location and schedule expectations are policy, team practice or manager discretion.
- Conditional itemsIdentify background checks, work authorization, graduation proof, references or other contingencies.
- Repayment clausesRead relocation, signing bonus, training and equipment terms for repayment triggers and time periods.
- Acceptance mechanicsConfirm the decision deadline, authorized signer and official channel without paying money or moving funds for the employer.
Respond without manufactured urgency
A professional response can be warm and still preserve a careful decision.
- AcknowledgeThank the employer and confirm receipt, deadline and any missing documents.
- ResearchCompare the role with occupation data, local costs and other live options.
- ClarifyBundle factual questions so the recruiter can provide accurate written answers.
- Decide or negotiateMake a specific, supportable request or accept and decline clearly within the agreed timeline.
