University of California Berkeley Career Guide - Flipbook - Page 45
3. The Job Itself
• Training and development opportunities
• Day-to-day activities
• Amount of stress or pressure, pace of work
• Requirements to relocate, travel, or work long
hours
• Responsibility, autonomy
• Opportunity for advancement and/or individual
achievement
• Salary and benefits package Involvement with
good supervisor, peer associates
• Physical environment
• Social significance of work
Evaluating An Offer
Typically, employers will make a verbal offer over
the phone followed by email/mail. Read over these
documents closely. You should be enthusiastic when
an offer is made. If you need some time to think it
over, it is fine to ask. Remember that once you accept
a position, it is unethical to continue looking for other
opportunities or to renege (i.e., back out of your
acceptance). Students that accept and then renege on
a job offer are at risk of losing their Handshake access.
Please see the Principles Of Professional Conduct on
page 5 for more information.
Things To Consider
4. General “Lifestyle” Factors
• Comfort with goals, philosophy of organization
• Geographic location
• Recreational and educational facilities, cultural
opportunities
Consider different factors in making a decision
regarding the acceptance of a job offer. Few, if any,
organizations will provide all that you would like to
have in your ‘’ideal’’ job, and you should know of which
factors you can make comfortable compromises and
which factors must be met.
Salary Negotiation
1. The Industry
• History of growth
• Predictable future needs
• Degree of dependence on business trends or
cycles
• Degree of dependence on government regulations
or actions
Apply these tips to maximize your effectiveness in
the negotiation process.
2. The Organization
• Prestige and reputation
• Growth potential
• Size and company culture
• Financial stability
• Strong management team
Practice – Negotiation is a skill. Make sure to practice
before you negotiate!
Prepare – Consider the four factors above and
determine how these fit with your budgetary needs.
Calculate the market value for the position based on
the industry and location.
Negotiate – Ask if the offer is negotiable. When you
choose to negotiate, be positive to maintain a strong
relationship with the employer. After you come to an
agreement, make sure to get the final offer in writing.
Career Tip:
When making a decision on a job or internship offer continue
to use email etiquette with the employer whether accepting,
rejecting or asking for an extension. You never know when your
paths will cross again.
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