10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Accept a Job Offer

You finally got that long-awaited job offer. Here are 10 questions that you should ask yourself before you accept the position.

1. How are women treated within the organization?

Even if you aren't a woman, you will want to pay careful attention to how women are treated within the organization. If there are many women working within the office, but few if any hold management positions, it is best to keep looking. An organization's treatment of women may or may not become apparent during the interview process. If you are a man, do you really want to work in an organization that doesn't treat people solely on the basis of merit?

2. How is the company structured?

A company may appear to be a small, flat organization, but many times, such companies may be a part of a large, multinational organization that may or may not value the company. Doing a little research can help you avoid a lot of headaches down the road. You want to go into your new position with your eyes wide open.

3. What type of work environment will I be entering?

There are a lot of poisonous work environments out there, and it can completely kill your career. In addition, during an interview, people are on their best behavior. It can be very difficult to tell what type of work environment into which you are entering until it is too late. Key in on any stories that you hear with regards to people leaving their positions. They can be words of caution.

4. How will I be evaluated?

When you enter a new position, you might hear a lot with regards to how you will be evaluated. However, the reality might be very different. Key in on any differences in what you are told by the human resources department and what you are told by the man or woman who will be your direct manager. You should ask both parties to address the issues. The evaluation process can be a way in which you are set for failure right from the beginning.

5. What type of training will I receive?

Your initial training is imperative to the success of your career. If you have issues with regards to how you are being trained, speak up as soon as possible. You might realize that you received poor training once it is too late.

6. Am I willing to move out of state?

If the position is out of state, you will seriously have to consider the impact that such a move will have on your friends, family, and your finances. Are you ready to deal with the impact, and is it worth it?

7. What type of neighborhood surrounds the company?

You might accept your dream job only to realize that the company is located in an incredibly unsafe area. You don't want to feel unsafe every day. Do your research well.

8. Is there affordable housing nearby?

If you will have to move, whether out of state or in state, you will also have to research housing options in the nearby area. You might be in for a longer commute than you realize. You don't want any nasty surprises once you accept the position.

9. Will I have an opportunity to continue my education?

In an interview, it is always a good idea to ask with regards to opportunities to further your education. Continuing education doesn't have to mean obtaining a masters degree. It simply refers to continuing professional education. Many companies offer such classes on-site.

10. Will I be able to live comfortably on the salary or hourly wage offered?

A comfortable living wage in one area of the country does not equally a comfortable living wage in other areas of the country. Take time to research annual income levels in the area.

With a little research and foresight, you can potentially avoid a disastrous career move.