HOW TO CHOOSE BETWEEN TWO JOB OFFERS

Or not so lucky because how do you know which one will be better for you in the long run? What if you choose one... only to regret it?

It’s definitely not a simple process (you can’t just toss a coin) and making the right decision will impact your career. There are so many factors in play (which pays better, which has better opportunities and even which is nearer to your home!) so how do you make the right choice?

Here are four questions to ask.

#1 Which one pays more?
Yes, which one pays more literally as in more salary but also you need to think in terms of personal satisfaction too. A good salary can only go so far but if you are miserable each time you go to work or you are expected to do a lot more than what you’re being paid, then the dollars and cents won’t bring you happiness.

Weigh your choices – will the higher salary make up for the job you’re slightly less interested in? But what if you are bored or stressed Monday to Friday, will the higher salary bring you happiness?

Remember, you can always go for the job you really want but pays less... and then prove yourself and get a salary you want. The thing to do is this: If the salary is pretty much the same, choose the more fulfilling job. If one salary is so low, go with the other one.

Don’t forget to consider the bonuses, incentives and other benefits like health insurance. The salary may be lower for one but if you get really good perks, it makes up for it if that is what’s important to you.

#2 Which one will meet my career aspirations?
Now that the ball is in your court, here’s something you need to think about: How will the job align with your career goals? Instead of what you can do for the company, it’s time to ask what the company can do for you.

A few things to consider: Which job has more opportunities for growth? Which one will give you the chance to learn new skills? Which one will challenge you more? And which one will give you more exposure?

Depending on what your career goals are, choose the job that will give you what you need to be happy and successful in your career. Consider which position is most promising and fulfilling for you.

#3 Did it feel right?
There’s really no science to gut feel but it works. Think back of your interview – which one made you feel more comfortable? If you had a chance to explore the office, think back to which one seemed more you. The answer to that will give you an indication of which offer to choose. If you had your prospective bosses interview you, then think of which boss you see yourself working better with because this is a huge factor to your career success.

#4 Which company is more me?
What’s also important aside from your job role? The company you will be working for. If you know people working in the company or a friend of a friend knows someone, it’s time to do some digging. Find out as much as you can about the company culture or do some reading online. Figure out what you want out of a company whether it is flexibility, the opportunity to learn or even something as simple as a fun place to work at, and assess which of the two options will give you that.

Photo by Robert Ruggiero on Unsplash