What to Watch Out for in Your First Job Offer

You’ve just finished your training or studies and are holding your first job offer in your hands? Congratulations! Starting your career is an exciting milestone — but also a decision that should be made carefully.

Before you sign too quickly, take some time: We’ll show you what to pay attention to in order to evaluate your first job offer objectively — and make a decision that you’ll be happy with in the long run. The following 10 questions will help you set the right priorities.

1. Does the salary match my qualifications and cost of living?

Especially at the start of your career, it’s tempting to accept the first offer immediately. But make sure the pay is fair and appropriate for your education, industry, and region. Use salary comparison websites or discreetly ask in your network about average salaries. Also check if bonuses such as vacation pay, Christmas bonuses, or other incentives are included.

To quickly see your net income after taxes, use our handy salary calculator — so you always keep track of your earnings.

2. What is the work environment like?

A good salary won’t mean much if the company culture is poor. Try to learn about the team, leadership style, and collaboration during your interview. It can also help to check review platforms like Kununu or ask current or former employees about their experiences. This way, you get a realistic picture of whether the company truly fits you.

3. Are there development opportunities?

Think beyond the job you’re accepting today and consider your prospects in two to three years. Are there training programs? Career paths? Internal promotion opportunities?

Long-term development opportunities are crucial because they help you grow professionally and personally, achieve your goals, and adapt to new challenges. This way, you won’t stagnate but actively shape your career.

4. How flexible are working hours and location?

Whether flextime, home office, or shift work — clarify early on what your future daily routine will look like. Such organizational conditions not only shape your day-to-day work but also greatly affect how well your job fits with your private life. The clearer you know what to expect, the better you can assess if the job matches your desired work-life balance.

5. How secure is the position?

Pay close attention to the type of employment: Is the contract fixed-term or permanent? Are there realistic chances for permanent employment after the probation period? The company’s financial stability is also important, as uncertain finances can quickly lead to layoffs or restructuring. For career starters, a secure position is especially important because it provides financial stability and planning security. An insecure job, on the other hand, can cause additional stress, hinder professional development, and make entering working life unnecessarily difficult.

6. What social benefits does the employer offer?

Many companies offer benefits beyond salary that make the job more attractive. A company pension scheme supports long-term wealth building. Mobility allowances ease financial burdens and promote sustainable mobility. Meal subsidies or discounted cafeterias save money and help with healthy eating. Sports programs or health initiatives like check-ups or stress prevention strengthen wellbeing. These “benefits” are often real plus points and should factor into your decision.

7. Do the company’s values align with mine?

Are aspects like diversity, sustainability, or social responsibility genuinely practiced in everyday business? If these topics matter to you, the employer should not only communicate these values but also visibly implement them through concrete actions, projects, or company culture.

Reflect on which values are important to you personally: Is it teamwork, transparency, fairness, innovation, or work-life balance? Only when your own beliefs align with the company’s lived values will you find a work environment where you can truly feel comfortable long-term.

8. What about the commute?

Read the contract carefully. Make sure probation periods, notice periods, overtime rules, and vacation days are clearly defined. Clarify unclear or missing points beforehand to avoid surprises later. Having the contract reviewed by a lawyer can also be helpful. A clearly written contract provides security and forms the basis for a good working relationship.

9. What does the employment contract look like?

Read the contract carefully. Make sure probation periods, notice periods, overtime rules, and vacation days are clearly defined. Clarify unclear or missing points beforehand to avoid surprises later. Having the contract reviewed by a lawyer can also be helpful. A clearly written contract provides security and forms the basis for a good working relationship.

10. What does my gut feeling say?

Finally, your personal feeling plays an important role. Do you have a good impression of the employer and future colleagues? Do you feel welcomed, respected, and taken seriously? A pleasant work environment where you feel comfortable is crucial for your motivation and satisfaction. Ask yourself if your first impression matches your idea of a good workplace and whether you can see yourself feeling at home there long-term. Trust your intuition.

Conclusion: Keep your eyes open with your first job offer!

Career starters shouldn’t just see their first job offer as an opportunity but should critically examine whether it fits their personal and professional goals. Asking the right questions lays the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.

If you haven’t found a suitable position yet, feel free to check out our current job listings — maybe your dream job is already waiting!

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