MANAGERS SOAPBOX

This month we feature an article published in Durbans Daily Mail on 16 May 2007, which features our very own Rowene Bowker (manager of Bryanston Finance and Technical Engineering).

AN increasing number of South Africans are finding they have to, more often than not, choose among numerous job offers when looking for alternative employment. Though people in sectors such as construction, financial services, manufacturing and utilities are mostly on the receiving end of multiple job offers, we find that other job categories, such as receptionist and secretaries, are also attracting a range of job offers, says Rowene Bowker of Manpower Recruitment. To add to the dilemma, she points out, South Africans are not only receiving employment offers from local companies but also from leading companies across the globe. It is exciting to be in demand by more than one employer she says. It boosts your confidence and you have the luxury of making the best decision regarding your career and lifestyle. However, she adds, being faced with more than one excellent option can cause confusion and anxiety. It is happening more and more, it helps job seekers in all industries and on all levels to learn how to weigh the options and make the best decision, she says. Bowker believes it is best to consult someone, preferably a recruitment consultant, to ensure you take all the relevant issues into consideration. Remuneration and monetary benefits may play a role, but candidates usually look beyond the money she says. Ideally the candidate must make a list of all the reasons he or she wants to change jobs and weigh those reasons against what the prospective employer is offering. When comparing offers, candidates should gauge which position will enhance their skills the most; which company aligns best with their personal goals, vision, ethics and culture; geographical location and; how the position will affect their lifestyle and work/life balance. It is tempting to accept an offer from a big corporate, she says. You need to decide whether you want to work in a corporate where you may become just a number or for a smaller organisation where you know what you do will matter and that you are making a measurable difference. Due to increasing traffic congestion on our roads, Bowker says that a position close to home may be better if quality of life and family responsibility are high priority Needs that vary from person to person include professional development, a sense of belonging and a wish to work on international projects. It is of utmost importance that the candidate uses the interview process to get as much information as possible so he or she can make a proper comparison, she advises. The company that meets most of the candidates’ needs and expectations is the better option. The candidates existing employer often comes up with a counter offer, making the candidate uncertain about leaving. Counter offers add another dimension to the process as there are loyalty issues and the candidate may feel bad about leaving, she says. To keep perspective, we need to revisit the reasons for wanting to leave and compare the counter offer to the other offers.