Marie Raperto, The Hiring HubA job offer is always exciting.It doesn't matter if you really need the job or if someone really wants you.The offer recognizes you and your talent.However, an offer deserves a thoughtful review as you should want to know exactly how this offer will affect you.Here are some things you should 'think' about:

1. Compensation:  How much money will you really be making.  Will your new salary take you into a new tax bracket?  There are many online salary calculators to help you figure this out.
2. Benefits:  What are they and what will they cost.  Will your healthcare be more expensive, is the new plan better or worse.  Be sure to compare all the benefits against what you have now.
3. Cobra:  If your new insurance plan doesn't start immediately, you will have to pick up Cobra insurance from your past employer.  Since you will be paying 100% for this coverage, be sure to check how much that will be.
4. Travel:  Is your new job closer or in the same vicinity?  If not, will you be spending more for gas, parking, train or bus?  Also remember to think about the quality of your life if this job will increase your travel time.
5. Etc., Etc:  Are you in a casual dress environment now and moving to a corporate dress code?  Are you moving from a campus company sponsored cafeteria to a city no cafeteria world?

While not all of these issues might seem important, you don't want to decide three months into a new job that they do matter.  Take the time to think the offer over and make sure you know all the answers.