You have been offered the job of a lifetime, only to find the details of your employment are not what you had expected. Think twice before moving ahead as there are a number of reasons to turn a job down.

Careers coach and founder of Max Coaching, Jane Lowder, says this situation happens with a level of regularity. She explains further.

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Sound too good to be true. Probably is. Photo: Shutterstock

“A high-profile client was offered a role with a ridiculous amount of money,” Ms Lowder says.

“The details of his responsibilities were scant and sounded too good to be true.”

Ms Lowder advised her client to go back to the employer and get in writing exactly what the job entailed and what did they expect of him.

“The employer acted cagey and backed away and the deal went cold. Be cautious if something sounds too good to be true. Make sure your employment terms are spelt out.”

She said another client with a successful career had left his job due to “discontentment” with his manager.

“Two years later, he was offered a job in the same company,” Ms Lowder said.

“Unfortunately, the same manager was still there. I advised him not to take the job. We’ve had people in similar situation, and they have gotten sick from stress. When your health is at stake, it’s not worth it.”

She adds, first impressions count, particularly during the interview process.

“You arrive at the interview and you sense the manager is not up to par, this person will drive you crazy. Around 45 per cent of employees leave a job because of their manager. Micro managers rank as the most annoying to work with. If you’re getting a sense of this; think twice.”

Steve Shepherd, employment market analyst at recruitment specialists Randstad, says often people come across jobs that seem almost too good to be true. The critical factor is to remain focused on finding the right position and employer for your circumstances.

He offers the following five reasons to turn down a job:

Make a list of your job priorities. Photo: Shutterstock

1. The job does not tick your boxes

Before applying for any new positions, make a clear list of your priorities such as increased salary, better work-life balance or a business with a great atmosphere and culture.

Even if the job sounds great, if it only ticks one of your boxes or does not satisfy your number one priority, the job isn’t for you.

2. It does not align with your long-term career goals

Sometimes jobseekers will find adverts for jobs that are too good to be true. Ultimately, if accepting the role would mean a step backwards, or sideways into an area, you are not passionate about, be careful it doesn’t prevent your career progression.

3. Employer does not have a good reputation

Research any potential employers extensively before accepting a job. Review their website, look for references to them in online news and on social and professional networking sites. Talk to current or past employees about the workplace conditions.

4. It is not the right culture

According to the 2014 Randstad employee award survey, a pleasant working atmosphere is one of the most important attributes people look for. Trust your gut – if you do not get a good feeling from your potential boss or other key members, it might not be the place for you.

5. Things do not match up, but the perks are good

Some employers will offer a number of perks to their employees, for example, free memberships or discounts. It is easy to be blindsided by perks.

Jobseekers need to look beyond the perks and ask questions around the role, responsibilities and future career path.