Six Pointers to Consider Before Signing Your First Job Contract

Six Pointers to Consider Before Signing Your First Job Contract

When you receive the contract for your new job, things start seeming a little real. Your efforts to apply for work and going to interviews have paid off finally. Before getting excited about starting a new chapter in your career, every top employment lawyer recommends that you should look out for these aspects on the contract. There is more information to be found at the Levitt LLP website.

1. Job Information

First things first, are you signing a contract for the job you applied? Although it seems like a minor deliberation, many organizations have different job titles internally and externally. In case the title has changed after the interview or the description varies, make sure you understand everything. Your new job title should also reflect on your role.

2. The Probationary Period

The first three months of your employment contract are known as the probationary period. During this time, your employer will be assessing your skills, attitude, willingness to participate in joint activities, and your performance level. If the organization feels that you lack the skills they were looking for, they may lay you off after the period ends. If you are successful, they will retain you. The contract should stipulate how long the probation will last and your payment during that time.

3. Salary, Benefits, and Bonuses

Most organizations offer comprehensive benefits to their employees, and some of the common ones include private healthcare, ride to work scheme, and gym membership. Read through your remuneration package in the contract before deciding whether you like the offer. If you are eligible for a bonus at the end of the year, understand how to calculate it. Sometimes it depends on the employee’s performance; so, ensure that the contract stipulates the details. If you don’t understand any of the clauses, talk to a top employment lawyer.

4. Working Hours

Understand the number of hours you are dedicating to your employer before signing a contract. It should include how many hours you should work in a day and the time allocated for breaks and lunch. Find out if you need to work beyond the regular hours and if you will be compensated for that. If you don’t like some of the clauses, consider negotiating.

5. Holidays

Every task is easier when you can take regular breaks to refresh your mind. Before signing an employment contract, find out the terms for taking a holiday and the number of free days you get. Find out if there is an option for rolling over your holidays or if you can sell or buy days.

6. Confidentiality

Most employers value their privacy, which means that this clause will be on most employment contracts. Understand what the employer feels is valuable and the information you aren’t allowed to reveal. That way, you will stay out of unnecessary problems.

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