How to compare job offers

From salary to company culture, comparing job offers can be boiled down to some tangible and intangible considerations. These four areas can help you review job offers so you can make the best decision for your career.

1. Compare all of the financials in your job offer comparison

Gather as much information as you can about each offer. This should include salary, insurance options and retirement plans. Prioritize which factors matter most to you, then rate each offer in each area to make a side-by-side job offer comparison.

2. Consider the position

Money and perks are important, but so is the work itself. When comparing job offers, ask yourself these questions: Is the work challenging and rewarding? How well does the position align with your long-term career goals? Is there opportunity for career growth within the company? How much can you contribute to the company's mission? What are the hours? Is there flexibility?

3. Work through the small details of any job offer

Non-monetary factors such as commute time can and should be used in your job offer comparison. Think through a typical day at each company, from the moment you leave the house in the morning until you return in the evening. The office setup may even be a factor, especially when the pay and position are similar.

4. Assess the culture of various companies

Evaluate the company culture by reaching out to current employees via LinkedIn, visiting Glassdoor for anonymous employee reviews or even searching "workplace culture at [company name]" online. Although those are just opinions, they may reinforce positives or negatives you've learned about the company.