You’ve worked hard polishing your resume and your interview skills. Now you have a job offer. Congratulations! There are a few more steps you should take before you arrive for your first day of work. Here are a few tips to help you know what comes next now that you have a job offer.
Understand the Job Offer
A job offer is a cause for celebration. It’s also easy to get so excited you forget to ask the right questions before you accept the position. When the phone rings, take a deep breath, and hold off on saying “yes” until you feel confident you understand the job offer. Of course, you’ll ask about compensation. Compensation isn’t only your salary. Most employers offer a compensation package that includes salary, insurance benefits, paid time off, and in some cases, retirement benefits. There’s nothing wrong with asking about any of these things. In fact, not asking up front could cause an awkward first few weeks at your new job.
Getting to Work
Another item of business you should handle before accepting a job is figuring out how you’ll get to work. If you have your own transportation, make sure you know how far the job is from home. Figure out how long it takes to get there during heavy traffic. Also, consider what you’ll potentially spend each week for gas. Is the commute something you can manage? If you rely on public transportation, make sure you know which bus route will get you there on time. Starting a new job can be stressful and you don’t want to add to the stress by having trouble getting to work.
How the Job Affects Your Benefits
Before you accept a job, talk with your Ticket to Work representative. Their priority is helping you take advantage of employment opportunities. They also help you understand how it will affect your disability benefits. This is important so that you are aware if benefits end up being reduced due to employment. Also, you may qualify for work incentive programs that help minimize reductions to your benefits.
Requesting Reasonable Accommodations
Depending on your unique situation, you may consider disclosing your disability to your new employer. The primary reason for disclosure is so that you can discuss any reasonable accommodations you might need to help you do your job. It’s always a good idea to speak with your SSA Ticket to Work program representative before you talk to your new employer. Your representative can talk with you about the types of accommodations available and the best ways to discuss them with your employer. If you should decide to disclose your disability, you’ll want to make sure you know who the contact person for accommodations is at your new job.
Success on the Job
Once you evaluate the offer and accept the job, you’ll want to be ready for the first day. You got the offer because you showed you have the skills and did well in your interview. Take things one step further and be sure you’re on time and ready to work. Not only on the first day, but every day. Communicate with your new manager and make sure you understand your role on the team and what’s expected of you.
Are you currently receiving benefits and need help with career questions? The Ticket to Work program offers support and help locating job opportunities for people with disabilities. To learn more about making the Ticket to Work program, visit DisABLEd Workers today!