With all of the challenges that 2020 has thrown our way, it comes as little surprise that people are facing financial hardship while being worried about economic uncertainty and what the future holds.
As a result of the current health crisis, we’ve observed an increase in the number of jobseekers finding a role that’s the right fit for them, applying, going through the interview process, receiving an offer and then ultimately turning it down.
It is understandable that people are apprehensive and afraid to make drastic changes in an already turbulent climate. It can also be hard to tell if a job is going to be the right fit, while representing a massive commitment on both a personal and professional level.
When all is said and done though, receiving a job offer can be both rewarding and satisfying. It’s also proof that you presented yourself in such a way that you led the employer to decide you were the best person for the job and there’s no better feeling than that.
This is why we firmly believe that now is the time to take the plunge, accept that dream role and advance your career pathway. Doing so will result in better opportunities, a new environment and culture to immerse yourself in and overall longer term security.
Here ,Emilia Thomas, our Compliance & Financial Crime Consultant, explains the benefits of why now, more than ever, it’s a good time to embark on a fresh job prospect and tell your prospective employer you’ll be happy to accept the offer.
The chance to learn new skills
Your career is what affords you the opportunity to learn new skills and undertake training so that you’re able to perform at your peak. If your current job isn’t stretching or challenging you and you feel bored as a result, then now is the time to realise your ambitions and move on.
A new role will help you to develop new skills and interests, making you a more attractive prospect to future employers. If, at this stage, you’re still unsure as to what you want to do on a long-term basis, accepting a position you’re less experienced in could open up doors you might never have known existed.
Extra incentives
It can be difficult to find the perfect package of benefits which come hand in hand with a new role. Healthcare, life insurance, a sound commission structure, paid annual leave, pension plans and flexible working are all important factors to consider when accepting a job.
However, even if the position you’re considering doesn’t offer all of your must-have incentives, is this reason enough to turn down the perfect job opportunity? The simple fact is, many employers are cutting back on the benefits they offer employees as a result of the current climate, so seize any opportunity going as you never know what scope there is for extra perks in future.
Don’t forget, the offering of benefits shows that the company in question genuinely cares about the well-being and happiness of their employees, while appreciating their time, effort and dedication. Any employer that expresses gratitude for your hard work is one worth aligning with, even if the benefits aren’t the same as your current package.
An easier commute
As we’ve all become accustomed to working from home, the thought of spending several hours a day commuting or stuck in traffic sounds like a waste of time which could be spent attending to important tasks.
If the job you’re offered is close to home, this is a huge incentive in itself and, by working locally, you’ll save money on petrol while helping the environment. That said, in the current circumstances and with working from home increasingly becoming the norm, a job's location and commute shouldn’t necessarily play a key part of your decision making process. If your new role has a slightly longer commute but the opportunity on offer will add invaluably to your skills and experience, then surely those few extra miles are worth the effort.
Reliable routine and pay
For many, the goal of having a job is to be able to support yourself financially and to strike a good work-life balance, allowing the ability to further your career while having breathing space to enjoy time with friends and family.
If the position you’re considering has a consistent daily or weekly schedule and pay scale, along with set days off, then grab the opportunity while you can. It’s unusual to find employment where the number of hours you work are the same from week to week. Consistency within your work schedule and budget allows for more flexibility when it comes to planning recreational and leisure activities. In addition, annual leave is easier to plan because you’ll know exactly which hours you’re missing and the work that needs to be accounted for during your absence. All of this also makes it easier for your employer to effectively manage your time away from work, meaning you will feel organised and ready to go upon your return.
A strong instinct
As simple as it sounds, you should always listen to your gut instinct. If you genuinely feel optimistic about the role following your interview, then trust that accepting the offer is the right thing to do.
It bodes well if your prospective employer seems like someone you could get along with and feel comfortable approaching with any issues or new ideas. And if the expectations surrounding the position seem to be clear and reasonable, stop overthinking all the possible negative outcomes and run with the opportunity, as it’s likely to turn out to be a favourable option.
Seeking a new role can be stressful and time consuming, while making a decision can be daunting and confusing as you take the time to sound out all of the options among your family. Sometimes, even after weeks or months of searching for a job, it can feel risky to accept the first one that comes your way.
After all of the hard work filling out application forms and attending interviews, it’s normal to feel uncertain about taking the plunge and accepting the role in question. However, it’s important to remember what prompted you to submit your CV initially and your reasons for seeking a new role. Take time to reflect upon this by weighing up all of the options, considering the benefits and listening to your instincts. In doing so, you’ll most likely make the final decision which is right for you and your career ambitions.
If you’re looking for a new role but would like further guidance, MERJE would be happy to help so get in touch.
