Accepting A Salary Offer

Regardless of whether you are satisfied with an employers initial salary offer or you have gone through negotiations to agree on a different offer, when it comes time to accept a salary offer there are some specific things you should do.

Put it in writing

Most employers will put their salary offer in writing, but if you have negotiated anything different or do not feel their document clearly notes all of the offer details you should not sign it. Ask the employer to add in the items you feel are missing, or alternatively, write those details into your letter of acceptance and ask the employer to indicate their agreement.

Multiple job offers

If you find yourself in the happy situation of having more than one job offer in front of you, be sure to consider each one very carefully before signing. Once you have what you feel is an acceptable offer in hand and have made a choice, sign your acceptance. Notify the other companies right away that you have accepted another offering, thanking them for their interest and taking great care to be gracious and polite.

Thank you notes

Thank you notes are an important part of post-interview etiquette, and they are equally important once you have accepted a salary offer. There are probably many people who helped during your job search, so take the time to send each one a thank you note. People to consider include those who served as your references, career counselors, mentors, friends, or others who provided emotional or professional support along the way.

Wrap it up

Upon acceptance of a salary offer, wrap up your job search by withdrawing yourself from consideration for any other jobs that are still in process. Gather up all of your job search materials and records, putting them in a safe place for future reference if needed. You should also collect receipts and verification of all expenses incurred during your job search, as many of them are tax deductible.

And finally

Finally, celebrate your successful job search. It is not easy finding a job so it is perfectly appropriate to congratulate yourself and treat yourself to something special. Perhaps you can buy a new outfit to wear on the first day, or maybe you indulge in a massage or dinner out with friends. Whatever you choose should be meaningful and fun, wrapping up your job search in a way that leaves you ready and excited to launch into your new position.

Click here to go to the next salary article - Rejecting A Salary Offer