Job Search Madness: The Championship! You won the job, what’s next?

Through our “Job Search Madness” series we offered resume advice, identified places to search for jobs and reviewed tips on interview etiquette. We hope our playbook has been a helpful resource in your job search. Now, Kforce wants to help coach you through game-winning advice you can leverage as you make the decision to accept an offer, negotiate compensation and strive to become a star-player on the team. Moving Forward When offered a new position, you want to be prepared to make a quick decision. Keep in mind that replying to any job offer is an art. When speaking with the hiring manager you want to point out how you enjoyed meeting the rest of the team and your interest in the opportunity. Make sure to address any questions at this time, and ask how soon they would like your decision. In general, 24 hours is an appropriate timeframe to request in order to make final decision.

 “Accepting a job, can sometimes be a life-changing decision so you want to involve the people at home who are your support system,” says Kim Bohinick, Kforce Market Director. Making a list of pros and cons could also help you come to a decision on whether to pass up the opportunity or accept the job.

Accepting the Pass

If you are ready to accept the position offered, you want to stay on top of your game. For many new hires though, the toughest part of the championship round is discussing wages. Rather than fouling on this play, Bohinick says you have to remain confident, but realistic about your compensation goals.

“You want to point out that money isn’t the only motivating factor, but be honest in mentioning your compensation expectations based on your previous salary and commission earnings,” adds Bohinick. You can expect that most companies will consider your past compensation and offer a comparable, or slightly increased, compensation based on your skills and qualifications.

While compensation may not always be negotiable, it is an issue that will have to be discussed. Just as you may have kept a positive and enthusiastic attitude during an interview, you should also employ this approach when it comes to discussing compensation goals. Once the hard part is over though, you can score extra points with your new boss by asking if there is any pre-reading or research you should do before your first day on the job.

Get into the Game on Day One

Just as the top college basketball players are feeling about their big game, you too may be anxious for your first day on the job. Again, try to remember the plays you employed to become the clear winner for the position. Remain positive, confident and enthusiastic as you meet and interact with your new team.

Take initiative by asking questions about your new position or the tasks that your teammates are working on. Connecting and interacting with the group allows you to hone in on the strengths of each team member. Ask your new teammates what advice they can offer you or how you can start helping contribute to the team’s success.

Bohinick says the best trick is to ask different people the same questions about the position, the company, or the work environment. “Take the time to get to know your team members and find out what their roles are and how they impact the organization,” adds Bohinick. “Leverage their knowledge and experience and use it to excel in your new career.”

When it comes to sharing ideas with your new team, keep timing and approach in mind. “Once you have a good understanding of how the organization operates, bounce an idea off another team mate before bringing it up in a meeting,” says Bohinick. Just remember, suggesting change is all in the delivery -- be polite and positive.

At the end of the day, it is up to you to continue your winning streak. Make your first few days on the job nothing but net and become a dedicated employee. By taking initiative and seeking out the great advice of others, you can quickly begin to add value and make an impact on your team. At Kforce, we wish you luck in your championship round. Now, it’s up to you to stand out as the most valuable player!

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