4 Good Reasons to Say No

Not necessarily. Remember that the company is looking for the best possible employee; therefore, it stands to reason that they will make an equal effort to put forth their best possible impression on you, as you have on them.  This is not to say that employers misrepresent themselves, but there is always more to the organization than you can possibly observe during a job search.

At the moment when the offer arrives, there are tell-tale signs that may indicate the decision requires further thought: 

1. Timing: if a company offers you a job during and interview, this is not indicative of a well thought-out decision on their part.  An impulsive move of that nature is unsettling and certainly reflects their business style.
2. Presentation: making an offer by telephone is fine, as long as it is promptly followed up with a written version of what was discussed; particularly on finer points including salary, benefits, and any other special circumstances.
3. Content: if the employer has failed to hit your requirements in several categories of negotiation, you will probably not be happy with your terms of employment.  Of course, you sometimes have to compromise on a few things, but consider how far removed the overall package is from what you described to him.  Is it acceptable? Is it too far off the mark?
4. Pressure: an employer takes the time he needs to make a decision about the right candidate.  He should extend you the same respect and be prepared to give you adequate time to consider the offer and discuss it with your family; 48 hours is reasonable. Insisting on an immediate reply is disrespectful and a sign of his management style.  This is what he will be like as a boss.

These are a few things to consider when you are deciding about taking a job.  Don’t be afraid to turn down a job offer if you evaluate it thoroughly and find it to be unsuitable for you.