Considering a new job? Many job-seekers focus on rate of pay and benefits, but there’s so much more to consider before agreeing to a new position. Don’t sign on the dotted line before you’ve asked these five important questions! Understanding the company, yourself, and how you will fit together are crucial for success, and your success affects everyone involved. When a company offers you a job, they are choosing to invest in you- and you, in turn, are investing in them. Make the investment a wise one by making sure you’re the right fit. In addition, asking the right questions before you’re hired avoids potential conflict and embarrassment later.

5 Things to Ask Before Committing to a New Job
Considering a new job? Ask yourself these 5 questions before signing on the dotted line.
1. Do I agree with the company’s vision and mission?
Although a company’s vision and mission might not be the first thing one considers when looking for a job, it definitely should be a major factor in deciding whether to accept a position. If you disagree with the major aspects of the company’s vision or mission, it will be a major struggle to find a niche in the company that suits you well, and you will likely be unhappy with your employment.
Even if you agree with the vision and mission of a company, consider the clarity of it’s purpose and how it has gone about pursuing that purpose. An unclear purpose often makes for a confusing work environment.
2. Am I a good fit for the company?
If you agree with the mission and vision of the company, the next thing to consider is whether you are a good fit. Will the characteristics you possess complement and work well with the dynamics of the employees and work environment already in place? Does the job description fit well within your strengths? Do you feel that you could contribute to the company and be an asset? According to Pierrette Raymond of Pierrette Raymond Group, “Being self-aware enough to know that a position isn’t a good fit for both parties means opening the opportunity to someone else who is. It’s okay to walk away when the fit isn’t right. You’ll both benefit from your honesty.”
Don’t be afraid to communicate honestly with the hiring agent about both your strengths and weaknesses. Employers appreciate knowing exactly what they are getting, and often times are willing to work within the strengths of individuals that they really like. When you accept a new job offer you are entering into a relationship with your employer, and honesty and transparency can go a long ways in getting the relationship off to a good start.
3. What is the job description and expectations of the position?
Although salary and benefits are definitely important, don’t let the number signs do all the talking. Just as important as salary is what you’ll actually be doing to earn that wage. Ask for an example of an average work day in addition to the job description. This will give you an idea of exactly what the position entails. If you’ll be working closely with others, see if you could meet them and scope out the work space before sealing the deal.
Assessments are a big part of promotions and pay raises, so don’t forget to ask what is needed to be successful in the position and how you will be evaluated. Does your training or evaluations include continuing education? What happens if you receive a less-than-favorable evaluation?
In addition, ask if it will be necessary to sign an arbitration agreement. Believed to be an easy way to resolve disputes without a need for legal action, arbitration is not always as pleasant as it sounds. Be sure to read any fine print regarding and agreement, and know your options. According to Jonathan Marigliano, partner at PMHP Law, the company, “…cannot force you to sign the agreement. In some cases, this step is optional although it appears to be mandatory…"
4. Is there room for career growth?
If you plan to stay with the same company for a number of years, ask about opportunity for career growth. How often are promotions granted, what do the positions entail, and how often is movement up the ladder granted?  Don’t be afraid to ask how long other employees in the same position have been there, and what positions other employees have graduated to within the company.
If there isn’t room for growth within the company, there still might be some worth in accepting the position if you plan to stay in the same career field and don’t mind switching companies in the future. Smaller companies that don’t offer room for promotion will likely tend to expect a shift in employment over time due to their size and diminished leadership capacity.
5. How stable is the company
Before agreeing to a job offer, do some research into the company. How long have they been in business? How long has the current owner been in ownership? Do they have any current law suits against them? Promises of a large salary won’t mean much if the check bounces at the bank.
Just because it’s a small business doesn’t mean that it isn’t stable. For example, a business expanding in order to accommodate increased demand is always a good sign. However, it is always prudent to observe market trends and make sure the boom in business is not just a phase that would leave you in the midst of a layoff.