Let’s face it, when it comes to choosing between job offers it can be difficult juggling the different options.
And if you’ve ever done this before with no one in your corner it can be even more frightening.
But don’t worry, we have you covered, no matter the segment of the construction industry you are in, there are 5 principles that will help you choose between different job offers.
Each step in the process builds off each other. You can’t progress to other steps without first working through the present step. Slow down. Take your time. Reflect.
After all we are talking about setting yourself up for success in your career in construction and not having to find a new job every other year because we didn’t take time to evaluate our role and fit within the company.
1st Step – Get Multiple Job Offers
Getting multiple job offers can be a daunting task if you have no system but lucky for you we are here to walk you through each step. First you need to build a great resume, check out “how to have a killer resume guide” for the first step to getting a job offer. Second, do your research on the companies you want to talk to. There is nothing more terrifying than talking to a representative from a company and not knowing a single thing about their organization. Take time before each interview to memorize two things about each company that align with who you are. Lastly, prepare for the interview process. If you are looking for more information check our free guide on “how to nail the interview.”
2nd Step – Determine What’s Most Important to You
Before you accept a job offer you need to assess what are the things you can’t live without. This isn’t being selfish, this is being honest with yourself. The construction industry isn’t a career for the faint of heart and if you haven’t evaluated your top priorities then the time when hardship comes, because it will; you will end up at square one looking to work for another company. A lot of people skip this step, and to us it is the most important.
Examples:
- Are you trying to get out of student loan debt?
- If so, you are probably going to want sacrifice time at home to travel so you can make extra money.
- Do you want to max out your retirement early?
- If you are out of debt and want to look at maxing out your 401k early then sitting down with the company provided financial coach is your best option.
- Does the company have strong opportunities to assist in your retirement?
- Does the company provide opportunities to further your education; do they have tuition assistance/reimbursement?
- Is there a ceiling at your current career path? Is it worth going back to school so you can continue to grow your career? If so, ask to see if the company is willing to help provide assistance in your education.
- Is flexibility important – so that you can be with your family at a moment’s notice?
- Has the company defined your path for advancement?
These examples only scratch the surface on what you value, take a step back find your top three and use these for your opportunity to ask questions and gain clarity.
3rd Step – Weigh The Value of The Company’s Culture
Compare your personal values with respective companies. It is one thing to find a job, it is another to find a career. At Laying Foundations, we want you to be passionate about what you are working towards. Finding a company that believes in you, is willing to train you, and walk through difficulties with you is how you find your career. If the company’s values don’t mean anything to you, then there is a high probability you will get burnt out after the honeymoon stage is over and begin the job hunt all over again. This is another good opportunity to ask follow up questions when you are talking with the company representative. I always asked the other person, take off your corporate hat and really tell me what it is like to work for “_____.” What is it like on a good and bad day?
I always like to flip the script on the interviewer, and ask them questions. Look for someone who is gives you an honest answer. Saying our company is the greatest in the world is them trying to sell the company. But if you find someone who says our company really values one another and would do anything for their teammate. There are good days and bad days at that is to expect at any company but at the end of the day we truly value each other.
– Is this company a good fit for you?
– Do there values align with who you are and what you believe?
4th Step – Weigh All Benefits
This step is the most analytical part of the guide, dissecting each benefit can take a lot of time but it is worth it in the end. This step also directly applies to step 2 – determine what is most important to you. If you haven’t taken the time to evaluate and answer step 2, then STOP and come back. Know what is most important.
Scenario 1: Step 2 Answer – Spending the most time I can with my family is the most important thing to me, if I am out traveling all the time I don’t feel that I will be able to spend the quality time I desire with my family.
The above scenario allows you to think and say I need to find a company that is fine with letting me work from the office or field in the town of my family.
Scenario 2: Step 2 Answer – I am working on getting out of debt or have a big purchase coming up. I am willing to travel so that I can make extra money.
If you are traveling, discussing a few options up front is crucial. Most companies will offer a living stipend / per diem to help offset costs for traveling.
If you get $400/week x 4 weeks = $1600 a month.
The best thing to do with this money is to live below your means. Find someone who can help you walk through how to set up a budget (if you need help, feel free to reach out to us) and stick to it. Remember that you took the out of town job for a reason, stay committed to the plan.
In either scenario you need to be looking for a great overall health insurance plan, a 401k and/or financial coaching option, mental health employee assistance program (the best companies have this and will often take care of the first few sessions), a physical wellness incentive. And if you are in the field, a company that provides voluntary life insurance, short term disability, and accident insurance.
5th Step – Take Your Time
Don’t let anyone pressure you into your decision, the truth is construction companies desperately need you. You wouldn’t be getting multiple job offers if you weren’t a great candidate. Slow down, weigh all the options, reach out to someone in your corner if you need help to process the decisions. Also know during the negotiation process that the person you are interfacing with is trying to get the best deal possible for his or her company. Know your worth, don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t be afraid to walk away. It seems intimidating but the person across the table has done this countless times and this could be your very first.
