Turning down a job offer? What? How crazy does that sound? It may sound crazy, but believe it or not, there are some jobs you may actually want to think twice about before you jump at an offer, no matter how good it sounds. Here are times to think twice about accepting a job…

The person calling you to set up the interview is less than pleasant. The applicant shouldn’t be the only person who needs to make a good impression, so should anyone the candidate comes in contact with in the company. If they are rude when calling you to set up an interview, how rude do you think they will be once you’re hired?

Do you have to sacrifice your morals, ethics or values? Believe it or not, there are dishonest companies out there. Do your research and ask around. If you find out that they are not a reputable organization, consider turning down the job offer. The continual need to compromise integrity is stressful. For example, sales can be a difficult career especially when it’s commission. The cut-throat atmosphere of some sales/customer service jobs, while not dishonest, can sometimes require you to choose sale over integrity.

Do the employees seem genuinely happy or does everyone look miserable? Not everyone in the company should be expected to stand around smiling for your benefit, but a company with a bunch of depressed workers is probably the last place you want to consider. You may think you will bring some life to the party, but chances are they will just end up disliking your perky attitude.
Is there any type of movement in the company – lateral or promotion? While a lack of promotions makes the list as to why you should turn down a job offer, it should be considered along with other factors and rarely on its own as a determining factor. If the job will enable you to learn new skills, by all means accept the position, but know that you will be stuck in the same position until you quit.

Will taking the job be detrimental to your career? Take, for example, you are a serious journalist, but decide to take a position with a sleazy newspaper? You might end up losing the respect of your industry peers making it difficult for you to find “serious” writing jobs in the future – otherwise known as guilt by association.

There are so many reasons why one might turn down a job offer, but before you do ask yourself these questions. What are your alternatives? Can you and/or your family with the choice you have made, short or long term.