Putting A Contract Out On Yourself

If you're unemployed and searching diligently hopefully you will entertain an offer (ideally two). With that said it is important to remember a few keys points before accepting that next step in your career. Remember that each person's needs and career desires are different. For some health insurance is important, others it might be culture but regardless be sure to have everyone on the same page before 'day one.'

• First and foremost, get the offer in writing from the perspective employer (email is fine, but make sure there's a hard copy being sent behind it).
• Get a full job description. Don't put yourself in a situation where people assumed your role meant more, or less than it does. Within this description be sure that success criteria is listed, this is very important if part of your role is developing new business.
• Get a defined list of health care (include dental and eye coverage) and life insurance programs.
• 401k? Do they match, and to what percentage?
• Is there a travel percentage expectation in a standard month?
• Do they have profit sharing?
• Outline any specific computer type (operating system), office materials or additional allocations that will be needed prior to acceptance.
• Miscellaneous: Cell phone reimbursement (include apps', if your position should have an understanding of mobile trends), company credit card and defined departmental budget. Is there parking or tolls outside the standard day that could accrue against you?
• Continuing education: Will money be put aside for additional education, seminars or conventions for your position?
• Relocation: Will they pay for the move? Will they provide packing services? Will they find you a home or will that be your responsibility? If they will not find you a home, do they have corporate housing or apartments? And IF your previous home does not selling within "X" number of months will they purchase it at market value?
• Additional protection: Ask that if you are laid off for any reason that there is a built-in severance allocation of three months or more. This is especially important if you moved to take the job.

Needless to say you won't win them all. Remember, it's important to understand that you need to make sure that you get everything buttoned up prior to starting the job. Chances are extremely slim that you'll get anything after signing the employment agreement. A good employer wants to keep you happy as much as you want to do a great job for them. So get it all in writing and start a job on the right foot.