How to accept a job offer | Ingeus
27 Mar 2025
Most people focus on interview preparation, but few plan how they’ll accept a job offer. Accepting a job offer is more than just saying 'yes'— it's an opportunity to start your new role on the right foot. In this blog, we'll walk you through the best ways to confidently accept a job offer, so you’re fully prepared when the moment arrives.
Post interview
If you’ve been successful in your final interview, you may receive a job offer or be asked to provide further background information where you need to supply references or proof of your right to work in the UK.
There are no legal requirements regarding how long it should take an employer to make a job offer and they don’t need to be put in writing. However, it’s a good idea to request this so you have physical proof of your job offer.
If you haven’t heard from them within three to four business days after your interview, it’s acceptable to send a follow-up email.
Types of job offers
Unconditional job offers
Unconditional offers mean the employer is satisfied with your
interviews and requires no additional steps. You and the employer will then decide on a date of when you’ll start working for them.
Conditional job offers
Conditional offers need further information regarding your experience and background before a final job offer can be made. During this, you may be asked to provide additional information, such as proof of your right to work in the UK.
How do you accept a job offer?
If you’re happy with the offer being made, you’ll want to formally accept the role. You can do this by:
Acknowledging the job offer
When you receive a job offer, start by sending a quick email to acknowledge it and let them know you’ll get back to them after reviewing the details. This is also a good opportunity to ask any questions that come up as you consider the offer.
Thoroughly reviewing the job offer
When reviewing the offer, you will want to delve into the salary, benefits and sickness allowance before accepting the role. You may also want to research the role and employer again to double-check this is the right opportunity for you.
Negotiate your job offer
Negotiating your job offer is a huge part of the acceptance process. You will receive information about the terms of your role, including salary, benefits, place of work, targets, which you may want to negotiate. You can arrange a call or meeting to discuss the needs and expectations you would like to be met.
Preparing a list of things you would like to negotiate will help you ensure you cover everything and prepare any additional information required to support.
Draft a reply
Now that you know you want to accept the role, you’ll want to start drafting a reply. It should be professional and start by thanking the employer for the opportunity. You should also mention the job title, a short summary of the agreed role, salary and benefits, and your expected start date to ensure everyone is on the same page and there’s no confusion before starting the role.
Identify how you would like to send your response
Most job offers are usually accepted via email, however, it’s best practice to send your response in the same form as the job offer was sent in. For example, some employers may use a recruitment portal.
Ensure your response is addressed to the right person
When accepting a job offer by email or letter, you should always address the person who sent it to you. You should find this at the bottom of their last correspondence to you.
Proofread your job offer response
Whenever you write anything it’s essential that you proofread it before sending it. This will help you spot mistakes and improve the flow of your sentences, ensuring you send a well-written and professional response.
Example of a job acceptance letter
Dear Beth,
I would like to formally accept your offer of Social Media Manager.
As agreed, my starting salary will be £30,000 with 25 days of paid leave plus bank holidays, and I understand I have health, vision and dental plans that will start on my first day.
I look forward to working with you on 7th April 2025. If there are any documents or further information I should prepare for my first day, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Annie
Other important steps
Once you’ve accepted you job offer there are a few other things you need to do or get ready for. This could include:
- Sending your letter of resignation to your current employer.
- Getting ready for your first day – planning where you’re going or who you’ll be meeting with, or what to wear and take with you.
- Asking any questions that pop up before your first day.