However, before you start the celebration party, there are a few questions you should ask.

Is this a definite job offer? - This may sound a bit ridiculous. You don't have to ask it right out, but it is important to clarify. An employer telling you "We will likely have a position/work for you next week," is different than "We are offering you a full-time position starting next Monday." It is best to be certain about what is being offered. If at all possible, get it in writing.

So what does the offer look like? Ask as many questions as you need to gather all of the details.

Wage: What is the starting wage, are there wage increases and when do they take effect, is there room to negotiate on the wage?

Benefits: What are they and when do they take effect? (i.e., medical, dental, life insurance, vacation)

Start date: hours, lunch breaks

Dress code policy

high

medium

low

know equipment

know programs

know process

quick learner

have experience

good communicator

nervous with new people

slow learner

unsure of expectations

don't know all duties

Does the boss know my weak points?
Should I confirm with the boss my capabilities?
Should I confirm the boss's expectations?
Will people be physically hurt if I don't do my job properly?
Will others lose their jobs if I don't do my job properly?
Will equipment be damaged if I don't do my job properly?
Will I be held responsible for damaged equipment?
Are there job-specific issues I need to consider?

Other things to consider

What is the average salary/wage for this position in my city?
Is the salary/wage contingent upon education/experience?
If this is an entry level job, there may not be room for negotiation about the salary/wage. (It is, however, not impossible.)
Are there many people with similar skills, talents experiences in your area?

Pros & Cons

If you can secure some time to think about the offer then you have the benefit of being able to develop a list of pros and cons. This is a huge advantage. Look at the offer objectively and thoroughly. Gather feedback from family, friends or others in the field. Here is a small checklist of questions you can ask yourself. Be sure to add your own.

• Will the position be challenging?
  
• Will you enjoy working with the staff?
  
• Will there be opportunities to learn and move around within this company?
  
• Do you need new clothes/tools for this job?
  
• Are you able to acquire them?
  
• Is the wage satisfactory?
  
• The job may not be ideal, but does it meet the majority of your needs?
  
• What does the offer say about you?

This is not always a possibility. Remember the point of negotiation is to clearly communicate your value and qualifications to the employer in exchange for money, benefits and position. Here are some points to keep in mind:

prior to negotiation, research what average wage and benefit packages look like for similar positions in other companies

negotiation should be done in person if at all possible

hold your ground, but know when to compromise by "reading" the situation

do not discuss personal issues as reasons for higher wage

Spend some time preparing yourself mentally. Entering your new job with an open mind is essential. You can not go into this job with preconceived ideas and strict expectations. Employers look for adaptability and you want to be able to give them that. Have confidence in yourself. They offered you the job didn't they? You are friendly, willing to learn, and capable of handling anything that comes your way.

Take it one day at a time and you will most definitely succeed!