What Should You Ask Before Accepting a Job?

Before you say yes

Getting a job offer is exciting, especially when it's your first one. But before you immediately reply with a yes, it's worth taking a moment to understand exactly what you're agreeing to.

You don't need to be an expert in employment law or workplace benefits. Just make sure you have a clear picture of what the job involves and what your employer is offering.

Here are seven things worth checking.

1. Salary

Make sure you understand exactly how much you'll be paid. Ask whether the figure is your actual salary or a pro rata full-time equivalent.

It's also worth checking:

• When you'll be paid
• Whether there are bonuses or commission
• When your salary will be reviewed
• Whether there are any other regular payments

2. Hours

What will your normal working hours be?

Find out:

• How many hours you'll work each week
• What your normal working days are
• Whether there are shifts
• Whether overtime is expected
• Whether there is flexibility around your hours

3. Holiday

Everyone needs time away from work. Check how much annual leave you'll receive and whether bank holidays are included within your entitlement. Some employers also offer additional holiday as you gain experience or through company benefits. Knowing your holiday entitlement before you start means there are no surprises later.

4. Pension

Your employer may enrol you into a workplace pension if you meet the relevant eligibility requirements. It's worth asking what pension scheme the organisation offers and whether the employer contributes.

You might not be thinking much about retirement when you're starting your first job, which is understandable, but it's worth understanding the basics early on in your career so you understand these things when you reach that point.

5. Training

If this is your first job, you're probably going to have a lot to learn. Ask what training you'll receive when you start and what ongoing development is available.

You could ask "What training would I receive during my first few months?". You might also want to find out whether you'll have a mentor, access to courses or opportunities to gain professional qualifications.

6. Progression

You don't need to know exactly where you'll be in five years, but it's useful to understand what could happen if you do well.

Ask whether there are opportunities to:

• Take on more responsibility
• Move into other roles
• Gain additional qualifications
• Progress within the organisation
• Increase your salary over time

7. Working arrangements

Where and how will you actually work?

Find out whether the role is:

• Office-based
• Remote
• Hybrid
• Client-based
• Shift-based

Don't be afraid to ask

Remember, accepting a job is a two-way decision. The employer is deciding whether you're right for the role, and you're deciding whether the role is right for you.

Ask if you:

• Don't understand something in the offer
• Are unsure about the hours
• Want to know what training is available
• Want to understand where the role could lead

Read the offer carefully

A good employer should be happy to give you the information you need to make an informed decision.

If you receive a written offer or contract, take the time to read it carefully before accepting. Your first job is a big step. Make sure you know what you're stepping into.