Things to know before signing the contract for your new job
By Cham Posted Date: May 23, 2017
Feeling all excited that you’ve got that new job offer and was successful getting through the gruelling interviews and application process? It’s not over yet, the next thing is signing that employment contract. Don’t just skip the details and sign the contract just because you’re getting the salary you want, it’s always good to read through everything, including the fine print before you do.
Listed below are some of the important things to look at before signing the contract for your new job:
- Job Responsibilities: This is important because it tells you exactly what the scope of your role is and any duties your employer can ask you to do or not to do. Make sure that the job description and responsibilities do not try to impose any roles you cannot do (or don’t want to do)
- Location of work: If you have agreed that you will work in different locations like different branches or even overseas, your employer can be in stronger position if you say you do not want to move to another branch, so make sure you look at these clauses.
- Salary, benefits and any bonuses: Be sure to check that your contract reflects whatever was in the offer given to you. You must ensure there is inclusion of any other benefits and payment that was agreed upon as well as any bonuses or commissions you can be entitled to receive.
- Hours of work: Do not agree to a working pattern that you may regret later, it’s important to negotiate any variation early on if needed. In addition to the hours of work look at the shift patterns and whether you must work on weekends or public holidays.
- Holidays: You generally cannot take holidays as and when you please, if you are limited as to when you can take them make sure you discuss this with the employer. Also find out if you are entitled to roll over any holiday you have not taken.
- Notice: Check that your notice to leave or to have to leave is not too long (or too short). A long notice can hinder your opportunity to get a new job while a short period might not give you the stability you need.