How to accept a job offer: What to check before saying yes

4 min read | Hays Experts | Report | | Accepting a job offer

Candidate reviewing a job offer letter and salary details on a laptop before negotiating

Quick steps before you accept

  • Pause before saying yes. Take 24-48 hours to review the offer.
  • Get it in writing. Always confirm details via email or letter.
  • Check the full package. Salary, benefits, start date, flexibility, and culture.
  • Negotiate if needed. Research market rates and ask respectfully.
  • Confirm in writing. Use a short, professional acceptance email.

Download the New Job guide (free) for full checklists and scripts.
 

Why you shouldn’t rush to accept

It’s tempting to say “yes” immediately, but experts agree you should review the offer carefully. Even if it’s your dream job, take time to confirm the details and negotiate if needed. Most employers expect this pause.
 

What to check before accepting a job offer

Before you commit, review these essentials:

  • Salary and benefits – Compare against market rates using the Hays Salary Checker.
  • Job title and responsibilities – Do they match what was discussed?
  • Working hours and flexibility – Hybrid options, overtime expectations.
  • Company culture and values – Will you thrive there?
  • Career progression – Are there clear growth opportunities?
  • Location and commute – Factor in time and cost.

 

Should you negotiate before accepting?

Yes - if something doesn’t meet your expectations, negotiate before you sign. Employers expect it. Research salary benchmarks, decide your priorities, and communicate professionally.

Pro tip: Negotiation isn’t just about pay - consider benefits, training, and flexibility.
 

Quick tips for negotiating your offer

  • Do your homework – Use tools like the Hays Salary Checker to benchmark your role and location.
  • Prioritise what matters most – Salary, flexibility, training, or benefits? Decide before you start the conversation.
  • Frame it positively – Express enthusiasm for the role, then explain why your request is reasonable.
  • Use evidence – Back up your ask with market data and examples of your value.
  • Be flexible – If salary can’t move, consider alternatives like extra leave, hybrid options, or development opportunities.
  • Get it in writing – Once agreed, confirm the revised offer by email.

 

How to accept a job offer professionally

Once you’re happy with the terms:

1. Thank the employer for the offer.
2. Confirm acceptance in writing (even if you said yes verbally).
3. Restate key details: job title, start date, agreed salary.
4. Express enthusiasm for the role.

 

Sample acceptance email

Subject: Job Offer Acceptance – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you for offering me the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am delighted to accept and confirm my start date as [Date]. Please let me know if you need any additional documents before then.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
 

Sneak peek: What’s inside our New Job guide

In our guide, we help you to evaluate:

  • What to consider when leaving your current role
  • What to consider when taking a new job 
  • How to negotiate for what your skills are worth
  • How to accept a job offer via email
  • Tips for settling in at your new job

Download the New Job guide (free) for the full resource.

 

How to accept a job offer - FAQs

1. How long should I take to accept a job offer?

24-48 hours is standard. Use this time to review and clarify details.

2. Can I negotiate after accepting?

It’s best to negotiate before you formally accept. Once you’ve accepted an unconditional offer (even verbally), you’ve likely entered a binding contract. While you can still ask, the employer can refuse or even withdraw the offer. To avoid risk, review and negotiate before accepting.

3. Do I need to accept in writing?

Yes. Even if you said yes verbally, send a formal email for clarity.
 

Useful tools and further reading

 

About this author

Hays Experts – Your Career Partner

Established in 1968, Hays brings almost six decades of experience in helping professionals discover what’s next in their careers. With a global network of over 10,000 recruitment experts – including 1,800 in the UK&I – we operate across 31 countries and 21 specialisms to offer personalised guidance, career advice, and access to opportunities that match your skills and ambitions. Whether you're exploring your next role or planning a long-term move, we’re committed to supporting your career journey.

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