Ask An Expert: How Do I Choose Between Multiple Administrative Support Roles?

You’ve been interviewing for new administrative support opportunities and now, seemingly all at once, you get multiple offers! As exciting as this situation can be, deciding between multiple job offers can be challenging.

According to Shana Cohen, a Managing Director within The Execu|Search Group’s Office Support division, this a predicament that administrative professionals often face. “There is a continual need for administrative support, and today’s job market reflects this more than ever before,” she says. “Due to the increased demand, there are less administrative professionals to go around. This has led to a very candidate-driven market where top talent must be prepared to receive multiple job offers.”

So, how do you make the right decision? To help put you on the right path, here are four tips for comparing job offers from Shana herself:

Compare the opportunities for growth

Your long-term career goals should be the top priority when deciding between multiple administrative support roles. To do this, remember why you decided to look for a new job in the first place. “If you are leaving your job because you have limited room to grow or advance your skills, don’t get blinded by a higher salary,” warns Shana. “Focus on the big picture and think about which position will enhance your skillset and marketability. In the long run, these are the factors that will maximize your earning potential.” Read also: How To Strengthen Your Administrative Skills For Career Advancement

Consider the company culture

Culture can refer to a wide range of factors, from a company’s shared practices and beliefs to the actual work environment. As a result, it’s important to ensure you can see yourself being happy at the company you choose to work for in the long run. To do this, make the effort to learn all you can about each company’s culture by doing you research, meeting your potential teams, taking a tour of each office, and asking the right interview questions.

Look at the total package

When reviewing their offers, many administrative support professionals make the mistake of getting caught up in the salaries that are presented to them. However, rather than focusing just on the number of each offer, Shana advises her candidates to consider the entire package. “When evaluating an offer, it’s always important to look over the entire package. For instance, benefits, bonuses, retirement plans, and vacation policy are all factors that can make up for a lower salary.”

Follow your gut

A pro/con list can only do so much if your intuition is leading you in a certain direction. This is especially true if both organizations stack up similarly in terms of career growth and compensation. Whether you are leaning towards one organization or you have concerns about a specific role, listen to your gut. You have the power to choose!