You're feeling elated because you’ve just been offered a new job (or even your first job) so you probably feel like skimming that detailed contract and signing as quickly as possible.... right?
Wrong! It’s always best to read and understand what you are signing.
1. Job title and responsibilities
You should check that the job description adequately reflects the role you are applying for, and does not look to impose added responsibilities that you can’t or don’t want to do. Also check that the job title is correct. If the role is for a managerial position, for example, you won’t want the job title to simply state “executive”.
Make sure your employment contract reflects what was in your offer letter. Check if bonuses are guaranteed or discretionary. If based on performance, there should be set targets and an understanding of who decides whether the objectives have been met.
Don’t agree a working pattern that you will later regret. It’s best to negotiate a variation at the outset if necessary, including flexible working arrangements if discussed in the interview. Also, if you are being asked to “work reasonable additional hours to complete work”, check to see what is expected.
4. Restraint
A post-employment restraint is a restriction on what you can and can’t do when you leave. It can be hard to think about leaving a potential new employer before you’ve even started, but you need to.
When considering a restraint, consider how it will impact your ability to find a new job in the future and if it is reasonable.
Check your notice is not unduly long or short. For most employees a notice period of 4 - 6 weeks is usual. A notice period that is too long could hamper you being able to take up a new job, and too short a period may not give you enough stability.
www.orionsearch.com.au
Adrian Osuchowski - Orion Search
Orion Search assists Primary Processors (Abattoirs & Boning Rooms) and Further Processors (Value Added Meat, Ready To Eat & Smallgoods) within Beef, Lamb, Pork and Poultry employ their hard to find, permanent staff all across Australia.