A Coach’s Roadmap to Navigating Multiple Offers
Ermahgerd! Yasssssss 👑!
You did it. You rocked the job search and interview process so hard you’ve gone and landed yourself MULTIPLE job offers.
That’s more than one.
I’m proud of you, and, as you should be, I know you’re proud of you, too.
Now, not to dampen your spirit as you’re dancing circles to Whitney in your living room (I would be, too, go on with yo’ bad self), you now have to make the tough decision of choosing the right opportunity that aligns holistically with your long-term career goals, lifestyle, and values.
What do you do?!
Well, as a coach, here’s my checklist for how to navigate multiple offers:
🧭 Reflect on and clarify your priorities
Remember all that value work you did when you first outlined your job search strategy? Yes! Go back now and remind yourself of your career priorities and what you were looking for when you started this journey.
What were your non-negotiables? What are they now? Being set with your priorities will serve as a compass, guiding you toward the offer that aligns best with your goals.
🧭 Compare company culture and values
Hopefully, you’ve already done this step because why would you want to interview with a place misaligned with who you are?! At this point, you’ll want to revisit your conversations to assess which, you believe, had the most positive and supportive work environment. Have questions or need some clarification on culture fit? Reach out to a potential peer for candid feedback about company culture.
🧭 Evaluate compensation beyond the salary
Now, while base salary is possibly the most crucial factor in determining whether or not a role is for you, it’s worthwhile to look at the complete compensation package, including benefits, bonuses, stock options, and additional perks offered. Sometimes, a slightly lower salary with excellent benefits can outweigh a higher paycheck with fewer benefits.
🧭 Assess growth and development opportunities
With the above in mind, when you speak to the recruiter or hiring manager about your offer, ask them candidly about the potential for professional growth within their organization. Do they offer a learning stipend (excellent added value!) or mentorship opportunities?
Since you’re the type of person who always likes to learn, I’d venture to guess that a job with adequate room for growth and skill development will be more valuable in the long term than one with an immediate high salary.
🧭 Gauge work-life integration
Now, we’re getting into the non-tangibles.
To ward off burnout in the long term, you want to maintain a healthy work-life blend. Get the real-real about each company’s remote work policy (does WFH really mean being in the office two days a week and are you cool with that?), working hours, and overall flexibility. At this point in your career, you deserve to be trusted, not micro-managed.
🧭 Consider the commute and work arrangements
This one’s a doozy! I remember how much I loved my team and my job when I was at Facebook. What I didn’t love after nearly two years? The commute seemed to become endless by the day… even on a cushy luxury shuttle. If a four-hour roundtrip isn’t for you when you need to be in the office, be mindful of it and honest with yourself about it.
🧭 Seek clarification and negotiate for the best fit
Yes, negotiate! If one offer is your preferred choice, don’t hesitate to negotiate. In fact, you must. It’s an expected play at this point in the game. Negotiating demonstrates your commitment to finding a mutually beneficial agreement, whether it’s salary, benefits, or work arrangements.
And no, contrary to many of my clients’ fears, they will not rescind your offer should you ask for more money or stock. (wink)
🧭 Source feedback from those who know you best
Seek advice from mentors, family, and friends. Their insights can offer valuable perspectives and help you make informed decisions. Then, trust them.
🧭 Trust your instincts and gut feeling
Maybe this one should be first because, at the end of the day, you know yourself best. After thinking through all the pros and cons, the best advice I can give is to trust your gut.
What excites you most?
Where can you offer the most value?
Where will you grow?
It may not be obvious initially, but you’ll know it when you feel it.
Are you stuck and not landing the number of interviews you’d like? Do you not know where to start your job search strategy because you’re unclear on your goals, values, and ultimate priorities for a successful job search?
I get it! And I’m here to help.
Need a thought partner? I’m your girl. Need to brush up on your interview skills? I’ll give you real-time feedback on how to craft and articulate winning answers to those pesky “tell me about you” and “tell me about a time when…” questions.
I’m ready when you are and, in the meantime, I’m cheering you on!
🥂 nicole:)
