You're three or four interviews deep.  The hiring manager and other decisions makers have talked with you (and maybe even your spouse) and like what you bring to the table.  Finally, someone at the company offers you the job.  The compensation package is acceptable and you genuinely like your potential co-workers.

Now it's time to hit the snooze button.

That's right - hit the snooze button.  Don't accept the offer just yet.  Even if it seems perfect.  Here's how hitting the snooze button can help you:

Negotiation. They want you - otherwise the offer wouldn't have been made.  But by delaying your decision, you will apply some gentle pressure.  This pressure may help increase the offer - even in a soft job market.  Brush up on your negotiation skills here, here and here and you may well earn thousands of dollars more annually   (it's also a good idea to know what negotiation practices can hurt you). Asking for a few days to consider the offer can strengthen your bargaining position.

Investigation.  Is this really the place you want to spend the next few years?  Before accepting the offer, hit the snooze button and do a bit more research on the company.  Yes, you could arrange to shadow a potential co-worker to determine whether the position is a fit or not.  You could also take this extra time to conduct more Internet-based research on the company to determine whether it fits into your long-term career plan.

Decision.  Hopefully, you'll have several decisions to make because you've received multiple job offers.  This would be a good problem.  Even if you're only weighing one offer, there are several things to consider besides money (e.g. your lifestyle, hours, corporate culture, etc.).  Hitting the snooze button now could  save you heartache down the road.

IN THE CARAVAN: When you receive a job offer, hit the snooze button to allow time to negotiate, conduct further research and make informed decisions.

NEXT THURSDAY: Where Do You See Yourself?

Want more Interviewing advice?  Check out these posts and The Lion's Pride section of WildJobSafari.com!

Check out last Thursday's post on Projecting the Right Image

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