Most experts recommend waiting a short period of time before accepting a job offer, even if you plan to say 'yes.' Express your appreciation and strong interest in the job, and ask any immediate questions that you have, but request at least 24 hours to consider the offer.

Then, think about the following issues while considering an offer:

• Work environment
• Responsibilities
• Wage or salary
• Insurance benefits (medical, dental, life, and disability)
• Sick and vacation leave
• Medical and other pre-tax accounts
• Retirement plan options
• Profit sharing or stock options
• Parking or transportation
• Child care needs
• Flexible scheduling
  

Once you have considered the offer, decide promptly if you will take the position and respond to the person making the offer. If you decide to accept, ask for the offer in writing to protect yourself. If you turn it down, do so professionally—you never know when you will cross paths with that employer again.