We have all been there… just graduated from college and ready to step into the real world. If you’re on the hunt for a new job, getting an offer can feel like the ultimate victory. You did it! Time to say yes and move on with the next chapter in your life.

But wait, not so fast! While receiving a job offer is indeed a huge accomplishment, accepting without asking a few questions is a missed opportunity to learn more about your new role and the company. Not only are you potentially neglecting a chance to negotiate your salary, but you also risk rushing the process and making the wrong decision. You need to use this time to ask about salary, company culture, and future growth if you haven’t already. It is always difficult to ask these questions, but if you have secured the offer, you should feel comfortable in knowing they want you. Now you just need to be 100% sure that you want them as well.

So what exactly should you know before saying yes to a new gig, besides the number of vacation days you’ll be getting?

Some things can only be learned through observation. Ideally, it would be best to shadow the person you would be replacing for a day or half-day. If that is too big a request, they shouldn’t have a problem with you sitting in on a meeting, which can be equally informative.

Do not forget to ask this before you officially accept if it did not come up during the interview process. It is important to find out what kind of challenges the company is facing. Ideally, you would want to know if any of those challenges are financial in nature or any pain points that employees are facing. Only you could know how much these issues will affect your well-being on the job.

You want to ensure that there is room for growth with this offer. Asking your manager to discuss opportunities to grow in the role can help you understand any opportunities and expectations. You need to make sure that by accepting this job, you are not only going to be able to do the job, but know that this is a place where you can truly grow your career.

This is the most important part, but also very intimidating. Keep in mind that negotiating a salary is common, if not expected to counter the initial offer. Remember, if you have gotten to the salary stage, they are invested in hiring you and (probably) aren’t going to rescind the offer. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean they can always meet you halfway. If your potential employer cannot go higher, be sure to ask how they got to the number they are offering you.