All good examples of professional dress.
You did all of the right things. You went to the career fair, sought out an employer that would suit you well. You had a kick-butt resume complete with three-five references available upon request. You dressed up in a suit and tie or those nasty nylons and even made sure they didn’t have a run in them. Then you went to the interview and answered all of the questions correctly and got a call back two weeks later saying “you’re hired.”
All you can think now is how happy you are that you got the job, but what you don’t know is that this time is also a very important part of your career.
Your first question you should be asking yourself, I know this is difficult to ask, is “do I want this job?” Is this job right for me and do I fit well with the company? These questions often ought to be asked in your interview. This is the reason for you asking questions to the employer. The questions you should be asking should be around what kind of environment is the job position and asking whether you would genuinely like this job.
Another question you should ask yourself is if this job will get you anywhere? Your job should allow for movement up the ladder and pay increases. You should also understand their policy on giving out raises. Also will this job look good to other employers because chances are you will eventually work at another company and you want to look good to that company as well.
This period is also a very important time to negotiate your salary. Never negotiate your salary until they have decided to hire you. You should give serious thought into what you feel is the correct and best salary for yourself and don’t be afraid to start a bidding war between two companies if they both really like you. Your starting salary is very important and it does determine how much you will get paid in the future.
Another important thing you will need to discuss with your employer is your benefits package. These can add anywhere from 15-28% to your salary. Be prepared to discuss the benefits that are important to you and be prepared to negotiate these with the employer. you should also be prepared to ask what benefits packages are available.
Also, before you go into work make sure you know exactly where you will be working. Don’t show up to the front desk and say “this is my first day, where am I supposed to be?” Be prepared for what that day will bring.
I guess the most important thing is to be prepared for whatever the employer throws at you.
