Once you’ve received a job offer, you may want to take time to consider it before committing to your prospective employer. You could be evaluating the pros and cons of the job or negotiating with multiple companies. Knowing how to ask for time in this situation can help you remain professional throughout the hiring process. In this article, we explain why you might want time to consider a job offer and how much time you should ask for, and we provide steps for how to ask for time and examples to guide you.
Why ask for time to consider a job offer?
It is advisable to have a valid reason if you want to ask for time to consider a job offer. Having a reason ensures you’re not wasting your time or the hiring manager’s time. Also, you are not obligated to give them a reason why you require more time to consider their offer.Here are some reasons to ask for time to consider a job offer:
Unsure about the position
If you have a gut feeling telling you to hold off on accepting the job offer, you can give yourself some time to think it over. Asking for time is better than accepting a position you are still unsure of. Doing this helps you avoid changing your mind and declining the job after you’ve already accepted it.
Considering other job offers
If you’re interviewing with other companies or have multiple job offers, it can be best to ask the hiring manager for more time to make a strategic and well-informed decision. You can analyze and compare the job offers and decide which one you want to take and which ones you want to decline.
Want time to research the company further
Even if you have a good understanding of the job and the company, asking for more time helps you ensure that you’re ready to commit to the position. The extra time lets you do enough research, while also allowing you to consider what it’d be like to work for the company and the compensation package you were offered.
The role requires you to relocate
If the job requires you to relocate, you may want to ask for more time to consult with your spouse and your family. Since the move would affect everyone in your household, it’s important to ensure it’s worthwhile for everyone involved.
How much time you can ask for to consider a job offer?
Companies offer prospective employees varying amounts of time to accept a job offer. Often, the offer letter or email gives you a specific timeframe. Typically, two to three days provide you with enough time to consider the job offer. If you plan to ask for time, you can likely ask for a week at best. If you want to negotiate any part of the compensation package, it is advisable to consider a more conservative timeframe.
How to ask for time to consider a job offer?
When you receive a job offer, you are not obligated to accept it right away. Your prospective employer may expect you to ask for time to consider their offer. If you decide to ask for more time, it’s important to be careful about how you ask so you avoid insulting the hiring manager and risk losing the offer.You can use these steps to ask for time to consider a job offer:
1. Thank them for the job offer
Even if you don’t know whether you want to accept the offer, reject the job offer or ask for more time, consider responding within 24 hours of receiving it. It is beneficial to express your gratitude for the opportunity. Thank them for the job offer and convey to them that you’re still interested in the position and excited about the opportunity.
2. Ask about the deadline
Once you’ve thanked the hiring manager, ask if there’s a deadline to respond to the job offer. Knowing how much time they’re giving you ensures you don’t risk them retracting the job offer if you fail to reply in time. It also helps you determine if you want to ask for even more time.
3. Ask for more time
If the deadline they provide you with doesn’t seem like enough time, consider asking the hiring manager if it’s possible for them to give you an extension. It is advisable to do this if you have a particular reason for asking for additional time, such as requiring time to consult with your family or to help you compare your other job offers.
4. Ask questions about the offer
Apart from asking for more time, you can also ask the hiring manager questions regarding the job offer. If they require some time to get back to you, this gives you additional time to consider the offer. It also helps clarify any questions or concerns you have about the offer or the position. Consider asking relevant questions to get greater clarity about the compensation package in its entirety, and ensure that you’re not just asking these questions for more time.
Examples of what to say
When you ask for time to consider a job offer, it’s important to keep the conversation positive in order to maintain a good relationship with the hiring manager. Here are some examples of what to say when asking for time to consider a job offer:
- “Thank you so much for the opportunity! I look forward to working with your company and helping grow the business. I’d like to ask for a few days to consider the offer in its entirety.”
- “Thank you for the job offer! This is such a great opportunity with your company. I’m excited to bring my skills to your company while continuing to grow my career. I was under the impression that the job would not require travel, but I see the job offer states that I would be required to travel approximately 20% of the time. Can you let me know why this has changed? I’m available to discuss this at your earliest convenience. Thanks again!”
- “Thank you so much for your time and for the opportunity to work with your company. This is exactly the type of job I’ve been looking for. I look forward to putting my skills to good use at your company. Is it possible to have a few days to respond to the job offer? I remain honored to be considered for the position and I want to make sure I fully understand the job offer before making a major decision. Thanks again for the opportunity!”
Examples of what not to say
If you don’t take the right approach when asking for time to consider a job offer, you may risk losing the offer altogether. It may also negatively impact your relationship with the hiring manager. It’s important to avoid saying certain things when you ask for time. Here are some examples of what not to say when asking for time to consider a job offer:
- “I’ll get back to you.”
- “I’m not sure. I’ll think about it.”
- “I thought the job would pay more.”
- “I don’t know if I like the job. I’ll let you know.”
- “I don’t know if I want the job. I’ll get back to you later.”
- “I’m not sure if I’m still interested in the position.”
- “I’m not a big fan of the position and the schedule. Let me think it over.”
Tips for considering a job offer
When you consider a job offer, it’s important to keep several things in mind in order to make a well-informed decision. Doing this improves your chances of finding success in your future position. Use these tips to help you consider a job offer from your prospective employer:
Consider what you’re giving up
Before you accept a job offer, consider what you’re giving up with your current position. For example, maybe you’re giving up an easy commute or a higher salary for a job with greater advancement opportunities. Make sure to weigh both the pros and cons before making your final decision.
Fully understand the job offer
Consider taking some time to understand all aspects of the job offer. This means understanding the benefits, vacation time, and your salary or hourly rate.
Evaluate growth opportunities
It can be beneficial to evaluate whether this new position presents you with new challenges and the ability to learn new skills. Consider ensuring that the new job comes with the possibility for advancement into another at the same company. Having growth opportunities makes it that much easier for you to achieve your long-term career goals.