Page 53 - NEDBANK YES BOOKLET

Section 13

An offer of employment

If you are successful as a candidate, an employer will issue you with a contract of
employment that will regulate the terms and conditions of your employment as well
as benefits, which you will be expected to accept in writing. The Basic Conditions of
Employment Act guides the rights of employees in terms of working hours, leave, job
information and remuneration as well as the termination of employment.

On receiving an offer of employment, you should respond gratefully, even if the
offer is below expectations, and ask for some time to review the details of the
offer. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification of any aspects of the offer and the
companies’ policies regarding career advancement opportunities, among others.
Before accepting the offer, do extensive research on the market value of salaries
for comparable positions in the industry and same geographic region. Also consider
and prioritise your own needs and wants based on what is more important to you.
If you want to negotiate the offer, you will have to develop a realistic course of
action and initiate negotiations in good time. After negotiations you must review
the outcome, decide and provide a response as soon as possible.

Not all aspects of an offer can be negotiated. See below what can be negotiated:

Usually non-negotiable Sometimes negotiable Usually negotiable
Medical aid Flexible work practice/ Offer deadline
Telecommuting
Retirement/Pension Position title Start date
funds
Non-disclosure Location Salary
agreements
Leave days and other Non-compete Relocation expenses
benefits that apply to agreements timeframe
all staff
If you choose to decline the offer, do so in writing starting with a positive
statement expressing your thanks to the organisation for the offer. Provide an
appropriate reason for the decline (for example you have another offer you are
going to pursue, the location, benefits, etc). In closing, thank them again and
wish them well.
If you choose to accept the offer, do so in writing by accepting the letter of
employment before the agreed due date and thank them for the offer.
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