The Right Way to Extend a Job Offer

Summary

This episode of HR Party of One, presented by BerniePortal, outlines the effective approach to extending a job offer. It emphasizes the importance of gauging a candidate's interest before making an offer to ensure they are likely to accept. Key steps include discussing role expectations and confirming alignment on compensation and benefits before asking if they would accept the offer. The episode also stresses the importance of delivering the offer through personal communication—either in person, via phone, or video—rather than email, to avoid negotiation complications and leverage issues. By following these guidelines, hiring managers can secure top candidates more effectively.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understand the candidate's interest before making a job offer to ensure a higher chance of acceptance.
• 😀 Review all terms of the role, including responsibilities and compensation, with the candidate before extending an offer.
• 😀 Ask the candidate when they would be available to start to gauge their readiness.
• 😀 Phrase the job offer as a question to gauge the candidate's excitement and willingness to accept.
• 😀 If the candidate shows hesitation, schedule a follow-up conversation to discuss their concerns.
• 😀 Avoid making a formal job offer until you have clear buy-in from the candidate.
• 😀 Be aware of other potential interviews the candidate may have to prevent awkwardness after making an offer.
• 😀 Conduct job offers in person, over the phone, or via video to encourage open communication.
• 😀 Offering a job via email can lead to complications and negotiation pressures for the candidate.
• 😀 Following the right method for extending a job offer can help avoid power imbalances and ensure a smoother hiring process.

Q & A

What should be considered before making a job offer to a candidate?

You should ensure that the candidate is likely to accept the offer by assessing their interest in the role and checking if they are still applying to other jobs.

How can a hiring manager gauge a candidate's commitment to the role during the interview process?

By asking the candidate questions about their understanding of the role and observing their engagement and willingness to continue through multiple interviews.

What is the first step in extending a job offer according to the script?

Review the terms of the role, including responsibilities, compensation, benefits, and PTO, to confirm they match the candidate's understanding.

Why is it important to ask the candidate when they would be available to start?

It helps gauge their readiness to join and ensures that you are on the same page regarding the timeline.

What question should a hiring manager ask to confirm a candidate's excitement about the role?

The hiring manager should ask, 'If I were to offer you the job right now, would you say yes?' to prompt a direct response about the candidate's willingness to accept.

What advantage does confirming a candidate's acceptance before making an official offer provide?

It prevents the candidate from having leverage to negotiate after being informed they are the top choice, which can lead to more straightforward discussions.

How does offering a job via email differ from a verbal offer?

Email can lead to prolonged negotiations and give candidates time to consider their options, whereas verbal offers facilitate immediate discussion and clarification.

What should be avoided when making a job offer?

Making an offer without first confirming the candidate's interest can lead to awkward situations where they may still be considering other opportunities.

Why is it recommended to make a job offer in person or via video call?

It allows for real-time communication and enables the hiring manager to gauge the candidate's reactions and feelings about the offer.

What should hiring managers do if a candidate needs more time to consider the offer?

They should propose a follow-up conversation to check in on the candidate's thoughts after they've had time to consider their options.