A job offer is exciting, and it’s tempting to accept on the spot. But the offer letter is the point where you have the most information in front of you and the most room to ask questions. Twenty minutes spent reading it properly can save you from unwelcome surprises later.
1. Check the role itself
- Job title and level. Do they match what you discussed? Your title can shape your next move as much as your pay.
- Who you’ll report to. It should be named, or at least the role should be.
- Where you’ll work. Office, hybrid or remote — and whether that’s written into the offer or was only mentioned in an interview.
2. Understand the money — all of it
The headline figure on an offer isn’t always the amount that reaches your bank account.
- Fixed versus variable pay. If part of your pay is a bonus or “variable” component, find out what it depends on, how often it’s paid, and how much people in the role typically receive in practice.
- CTC versus take-home pay. In India, offers are often quoted as CTC — cost to company. That figure can include things you never see as salary, such as the employer’s retirement contributions, gratuity, insurance and variable pay. Ask for the monthly in-hand figure after deductions.
- One-off payments. A joining bonus is welcome, but check whether you’d have to pay it back if you leave within a set period.
- Pay reviews. When is the first one, and how is it decided?
3. Read the terms that bind you
- Probation. How long is it, and do different notice or leave rules apply during it?
- Notice period. How much notice must you give to leave — and how much must they give you? A long notice period can make your next move harder.
- Restrictions after you leave. Look for clauses that limit working for competitors, approaching clients or hiring former colleagues. Whether these can be enforced depends on the law where you work, so if one worries you, ask a lawyer.
- Service agreements or bonds. Some employers ask you to repay training costs or a fixed sum if you leave early. Know the amount and the period before you sign.
4. Check the everyday details
- Working hours, and how overtime is handled
- Paid leave and public holidays
- Health insurance, and who it covers
- Your start date, and any conditions the offer depends on — background checks, references or documents
5. Get it in writing, and take your time
If something important was promised in an interview — remote working, a pay review after six months, a particular team — ask for it to be added to the offer. Spoken promises are easily forgotten, especially if the person who made them moves on.
It’s normal to ask for a day or two to consider an offer, and it’s normal to ask questions about it. A reasonable employer expects both. If you want to negotiate, do it before you accept: be polite, be specific, and give a reason.
A short checklist
- The title, manager and location match what you agreed.
- You know your fixed pay, your variable pay and your monthly take-home.
- You understand any bonus clawbacks, bonds or repayment terms.
- You’ve read the probation, notice and post-employment clauses.
- Everything you were promised is written down.
This article is general information, not legal or financial advice. Employment law differs between countries, and sometimes between states within a country. If a clause in your offer concerns you, speak to a qualified professional.