Got 2 offers? Choose best fit

Dear Joan:
I have been offered two jobs and although I feel very fortunate to be in this position, I don't know which one to take. I'm worried about making a mistake I will regret later.

I have a strong track record in various sales positions. The first company whose offer I received is more high risk than the other. It is a start up company with two million in sales. The potential is great and I would be in charge of leading the sales effort for the company as it grows. This job is paid on commission and the potential is very high. The second job is more secure but doesn't offer the same open-ended opportunity.

Both jobs are sales jobs and I feel confident that I could succeed in both of them. What I'm wondering is what are the factors I should consider before I choose? I've made several lists of pros and cons but I'm still not able to decide.

Answer:
When you choose an employer it's a little like choosing a marriage partner; you need to make sure both parties are a compatible match that will provide a strong foundation for your future. Often job candidates make the mistake of letting the potential employer do all the questioning, instead of asking a few questions of their own. Typically, job candidates don't ask enough about corporate culture, leadership styles, fiscal health and expected results. In the end, it's these things-not the technical skills- that derail careers.

If you feel paralyzed by this decision, remember that unlike marriage, you probably aren't trying to join this employer for life. What's the worst that can happen? If you discover that you've made a bad choice, your past performance will help you find another job. Considering your track record of good results, you're a highly marketable person who can land on his feet. So the important thing is to gaze into the crystal ball with as much information as you can collect beforehand and then make your choice.

Here are some areas in which to probe for more information:

Culture
Which culture seems like a better fit for you? Ask your potential boss if you can speak to a few of the people you will be working with if you are hired. If he or she is hesitant, it could be a bad sign. It could also be a bad sign if you are only allowed to speak to some people but not others. Be suspicious if, for example, you aren't allowed to speak to your potential employees or to other people who report to this boss.

If you do have an opportunity to speak with fellow employees, suggest that the meetings be conducted one-on-one (so you have a better chance of getting candid responses).

Ask them questions such as:

·        What is the best thing about working here?

·        What is the most frustrating?

·        What is the management philosophy?

·        What is your biggest concern about the person who is hired for this position?

·        What behaviors get rewarded? Punished?

·        Why isn't this job being filled from within?

Leadership Style
What kind of leadership style allows you to succeed? Examine each interview process and choose the potential boss with whom you got along best. Which one has a sales philosophy most like your own? Whose expectations are the most realistic?

Ask both of your potential bosses:

·        What are your pet peeves regarding employees?

·        How would you describe your style?

·        How would you define success in this job six months from now? One year from now?

·        What are the biggest issues you want this new person to resolve?

Company Health
Which company's top management is the strongest?
Which one is more open about the financial health of the company?
In the entrepreneurial job, how stable is the company's future (have they let you see the business and marketing plan and sales results)?

In the end it may come down to what you're ready for at this time in your career. If your family and financial situations are able to sustain a riskier move, it may be the right time to take the plunge. Your best job security is your past track record of results. Even in a tight job market, great performers usually aren't at a loss for job offers. 

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