When that call finally comes from the company you just spent weeks interviewing with there are 3 things to be prepared to ask them when that verbal offer is made.

First and foremost try to avoid negotiating on the spot. You want to see the complete offer with all the details before countering or going into any negotiations. So the first question to ask when the verbal offer is made is; when will you be receiving the complete offer in writing. Job offers are more than just base salary. You want to know the other details like bonus eligibility, vacation and benefits as well.

Secondly ask who can talk to in the event you have questions after reviewing the written offer. This tells you who you will be negotiating with. Whenever possible negotiate with the hiring manager, they are the ones with the business need and the budget.

Lastly ask when do they need a decision by. This tells you how much time you have to review the written offer and formulate a negotiation strategy. Also in the event you have other pending offers, it gives you a chance to notify the other prospective employers and let them know you are entertaining multiple offers to ensure that they put their best offer on the table.

Getting that call with a verbal offer is so exciting that long term job seeker want to quickly shout from the roof tops “yes!” But by showing some self restraint and asking 3 key questions you can accept that job with complete information and confidence.

After a long job search, when that call finally comes with a job offer, job seekers are often so excited that all they think about saying is a resounding “YES”! But this is a time you want to keep your composure so that you know exactly what you are signing up for. Asking some key questions will ensure that you don’t prematurely agree before knowing all the details.

Question #1 : Ask them when you can expect to see the offer in writing. Too often a verbal job offer entails just base salary. A written offer typically includes other details like bonus potential, vacation eligibility, and start date. I advise job seekers that they will want to see the whole picture of what an employer is offering before accepting the offer.

Question #2: Another question to ask when you get a verbal offer is who should you follow up with once you review the offer. This indicates who you will be negotiating with in the event you choose to do so. Typically you will be negotiating with either the recruiter, human resources or the hiring manager. Whenever possible try to negotiate with the hiring manager, they have the need and the budget.

Question #3: When you get a verbal offer be sure to ask when they need a decision by. This will give you time to review the details of the offer, consider a negotiation strategy and even leverage other offers you may be considering. One word of caution however. Be careful not to put a prospective employer off too long, they may question your intentions and commitment to take the job.

It is very exciting when that call with a job offer finally comes, keeping your composure and asking some key questions will help you say “yes” without reservation.