evaluate multiple offers

Know your needs and preferences ahead of time

• Know what you are looking for well before you find yourself in a multiple offer situation.
• Consider what is an exciting project or role for you.
• Think about new skills that you would like to add, or existing ones you would like to build.
• Contemplate the type of work environment you prefer.
• Determine your rate or salary, relative to market value for the type of position you are pursuing.
• If you are a consultant, know your ideal contract length.
• Decide whether you are willing to relocate for a contract or permanent position.

Be prepared to decide before you interview

• Research each company and opportunity fully before you reach the interview stage.
• Evaluate how each opportunity could help build your profile in the long run.
• Decide ahead of time which opportunity you would most like to accept.
• Use each interview to confidently sell your skills without having to make rushed assessments.
• Anticipate your reaction to an offer in each interview setting, knowing that there may be some pressure.

Be open and honest about your needs

• Be forthright about all of your needs and preferences during each interview.
• Request clarification of any factors about which you are uncertain.
• Map the opportunities offered by each position back to your established set of goals and preferences.
• If a good opportunity does not match your needs exactly, ask whether there is room for negotiation.

Evaluate each opportunity based on long-term career objectives

• Avoid basing your decision on salary or rate alone.
• Determine the skills and industry knowledge you stand to gain from each position.
• Inquire about future paths for promotion and growth within each organization.
• Ask about training programs available with each opportunity.
• Assess the business performance of each individual organization and the industry as a whole.
• Find out how important IT is to the success and culture of each organization. Make your choice based on sound business judgment rather than emotion.

Respond to each organization in a professional manner

• Word of mouth about professionalism can spread quickly throughout the IT community.
• Once an offer is extended, you may not have much time to make a decision.
• Establish timeline expectations early in the process.
• Respond promptly to all offers that have been extended to you.
• If you turn down an offer, take the time to clarify your reasons.
• Regardless of your final conclusion, be professional and courteous to everyone involved.