You’ve been busy tailoring resumes, filling out applications, networking, attending interviews and now it’s all paid off - you've been offered a job.
So why don’t you feel more excited about it?
There are times when something just doesn’t feel right and in these moments, it’s important that you trust your gut.
If you’ve been offered a job and you’re not sure whether to accept it or not, there may be a good reason for this.
But if you’re feeling unsure and worried about making a mistake, here are five signs that you should definitely pass up on that new job offer.
1. The job package is not competitive
When you received the job offer, you should have also received an overview of the whole package, including working hours, benefits, salary, vacation days, and more.
If this is not competitive and you've seen similar companies offering far more impressive packages, this is a big warning sign.
Sure, lots of businesses have been hit hard over the last couple of years, but that’s even more reason to invest in talented employees.
Ultimately, you've got to think about what you’re worth and what other employers would be willing to offer you, and if they aren’t meeting your expectations, it’s best to turn them down.
Otherwise, you could be left feeling undervalued, underpaid, and resentful just a few months down the line.
2. There are no opportunities to progress or grow
Career development is so important, no matter how senior you are. After all, without the ability to learn and grow in your position, your job can quickly become repetitive and mundane.
With that in mind, you want to look for a company that offers opportunities to progress and learn new skills. Those that allow you to branch out and work with new areas of the business or to take on courses and new training initiatives.
It’s also good to know that there is a chance you could be promoted in the future. Admittedly this is harder when you’re applying for more senior positions, but there should always be room to keep learning and evolving within the company.
If you've been made an offer that feels stagnant and there was no discussion about career growth or progression, it’s probably best to turn it down for the sake of your future self.
3. Their values don’t match your own
The job description, company website and interview all give you an opportunity to learn more about the company’s missions, visions and values. If these don’t match up with your own, then it’s not the company for you.
After all, you want to feel passionate about what you’re doing every day and the impact the company is having on the world around you.
Some examples of this could be working for a company that is actively damaging the environment when you are very eco-conscious. Or perhaps helping to sell goods that are manufactured by undervalued and underpaid workers when you believe in fair pay and working conditions.
If your values don't align, you’ll never be truly happy, committed, or satisfied in your role.