by Julie Desmond

You saw something in this position that you wanted. You applied. You interviewed. You got the offer. And then you got cold feet. What if it’s not what I expected? You wonder. What if I don’t like the people? What if the hours don’t work out? What if I get a better offer tomorrow?

The next worst thing to being unemployed is probably having a job offer in hand. It feels like an engagement ring burning a hole in your pocket. One false move, you think, and my life will change forever. True, isn’t it? But risk and reward are close friends and rarely do you find one without the other.

Making a career move is a big decision, but the key to making it happen is to acknowledge the risks, recognize the rewards, and realize nothing in your career is forever.

What are you afraid of? The risks inherent in accepting any job start with day to day adjustments: new commute, new schedule, unknown or uncertain expectations. Hopefully, you thought through the logistics during the application and interview process. When they become real, however, these adjustments can seem daunting. Talk to the people who know you best for reassurance and start putting the wheels into motion on child care, transportation and other needs so you are 100% ready on your start date.

Why did you go after this job initially? Fill in the blank to answer the question, What’s in it for me? Better __________. This could be money, commute, opportunity, stability… you name it and let this become your mantra. As you negotiate the offer and leave other things behind, keeping in mind your reason for doing this improves your motivation for seeing it through.

Remember, it’s a job, not a marriage. For most people, getting out of a bad job situation is complicated and uncomfortable, but rarely expensive and never impossible. From day one on your new job, start looking for the next opportunity, both internally and externally. Either you or the job or the company or the economy will surely change in the future, so plan to make another move at some point.

Once you are on board in your new role, fast forward a year or two. The people who manage you are your next employment references. Your new co-workers are you next best shot at a new job in another company after they leave this one. No bridge burning allowed. Get along, help others when you can, and put your best effort into every workday.

And in the meantime, take the offer, and get moving on your career.

Julie Desmond is Contract Specialist for accounting and finance with Specialized Recruiting Group in Edina, MN. Write to Julie@helpwantedworkshop.com.