Before signing that offer letter, make sure you go through these 12 crucial points. They’ll help you avoid surprises and set the right expectations for your new role.
1. Designation
- Ensure the job title matches the one discussed during interviews.
- Avoid accepting vague designations like “Executive” if you applied for “Manager.”
- Designation can impact your future opportunities and promotions.
2. Salary Details
- Ask for a salary breakup – Basic, HRA, variable pay, and deductions.
- Confirm your net in-hand salary after all deductions.
- Check for performance-linked components and bonus eligibility.
3. Leave Policies
- Check annual entitlement for sick, casual, and paid leaves.
- Ask if leaves are carried forward or lapse yearly.
- Understand the leave approval and holiday calendar.
4. Working Hours & Days
- Clarify daily working hours (e.g., 9 AM to 6 PM or flexible).
- Know if Saturdays are working, half-days, or optional.
- Ask about remote work or hybrid policy if applicable.
5. Insurance
- Confirm if health insurance is provided and who it covers.
- Check the sum insured and hospital network.
- Clarify who pays the premium—you or the employer?
6. Probation Period
- Know how long the probation lasts—usually 3 to 6 months.
- Check if salary, leaves, or benefits are restricted during this period.
- Understand the criteria for confirmation.
7. Notice Period
- Find out the official notice period duration (e.g., 30/60/90 days).
- Ask if there's a buyout option or early release possibility.
- Shorter notice periods give you better career mobility.
8. Perks and Benefits
- Ask about transport, food, internet, or remote work benefits.
- Check if the company offers wellness programs or learning reimbursements.
- Evaluate the full CTC value including these non-monetary perks.
9. Bonus & Pension
- Clarify eligibility for annual or performance-based bonuses.
- Check if there's a contribution to PF, NPS, or gratuity.
- Ensure clarity on payout timelines and conditions.
10. Full and Final (FNF) Policy
- Ask how long it takes to receive your dues post-resignation.
- Check if pending leaves are encashed or forfeited.
- Late FNF can cause financial delays—ensure it's well-defined.
11. Working Culture
- Research online reviews on sites like Glassdoor or AmbitionBox.
- Connect with current or ex-employees on LinkedIn.
- Look for signs of toxic work culture, high attrition, or poor leadership.
12. Appraisal Cycle
- Understand how often appraisals occur—annually, bi-annually?
- Check if performance metrics are transparent and fair.
- Delayed or skipped appraisals are red flags.
📌 Final Thoughts
Getting a job offer is exciting, but signing without reading the fine print can hurt your long-term goals. Check these 12 points before you accept and ensure a smooth start to your next chapter!
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