Accepting a new job is a career milestone. The communication that follows your “yes” sets the tone for your relationship with the new employer. How you formalize your acceptance and manage the transition period can reinforce the positive impression you made during interviews, ensuring you begin your new role with confidence.
Writing a Formal Acceptance Email
Your first official communication after a verbal acceptance should be a formal email. This message serves as a written record of your decision and confirms the terms of employment. This email solidifies your commitment and continues to build a positive rapport with your new manager.
Begin with a clear and direct subject line, such as “Job Offer Acceptance – [Your Name]”. This helps the hiring manager immediately recognize the email’s purpose. In the body of the message, address the hiring manager by name and express your gratitude for the opportunity.
Next, state your formal acceptance of the position and mention the specific job title. It is good practice to reiterate the key terms of the offer as you understand them. This includes your agreed-upon start date, salary, and title, confirming that both parties are aligned.
Conclude the email with a professional closing. You can briefly reiterate your excitement about joining the team. A simple closing like “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name and contact information, is appropriate.
Subject: Job Offer Acceptance – Jane Doe
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally accept the offer for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am very grateful for this opportunity and excited to join the team.
As we discussed, my starting salary will be [Agreed Salary], and my start date will be [Start Date]. I look forward to contributing to the company’s goals and working with you and the team.
Please let me know if there is any paperwork or additional information you need from me before my first day.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
Asking About Next Steps
After formally accepting the offer, inquire about the next steps in the onboarding process. Asking logistical questions demonstrates that you are proactive and organized. These questions can be included in your acceptance email or sent in a separate message for a smooth transition.
One area to ask about is new-hire paperwork. Inquire about any forms, such as tax documents or direct deposit authorizations, that you can complete in advance. This shows initiative and helps the HR department process your information efficiently. It also allows you to prepare necessary documents, like identification for an I-9 form.
It is also helpful to clarify first-day logistics. Ask about the expected arrival time, the specific location to use, and the person you should report to upon arrival. Inquiring about the company’s dress code can also help you prepare and align with the workplace culture.
Finally, you can ask if there is anything to review or prepare for before your start date. This could include company handbooks or introductory materials about your team. This question signals your eagerness to get a head start and contribute from day one.
Communicating Before Your Start Date
The time between accepting a job and your first day is an important phase. Maintaining light and professional communication during this interval reinforces the employer’s decision to hire you. A lack of communication can cause concern, so a proactive approach is beneficial.
Respond promptly to any emails you receive from HR or your new manager. These communications may involve onboarding paperwork or introductions to team members. Quick replies show that you are engaged, and you can also connect with new colleagues on professional networking platforms.
This period is not for frequent or unnecessary contact; communication should be purposeful. A brief message to your new boss a few days before you start is a nice touch. You can express your excitement and confirm any last-minute details.
What to Avoid Saying
Once you have formally accepted a job offer, your communication should remain professional and focused. It is not the time to attempt any further negotiations or damage the trust you have built. Avoid the following:
- Reopening negotiations on salary or benefits. Any discussions about compensation should be finalized before you accept the role.
- Using overly casual language, slang, or emojis. Your initial interactions set the standard for your professional identity within the company.
- Speaking negatively about your previous job, boss, or colleagues. The focus should be on the future with your new company, not on past grievances.
- Overwhelming your new manager or HR with an excessive number of emails before you start. Group your logistical questions into a single, concise message to show respect for their time.