Even if you desperately need a job, you need to know how to select an ideal employer, no matter how much you may need to be employed. It can be a tricky endeavor, but consider the factors involved when it comes to accepting an offer.

Here are some things to consider before saying “yes”:

Know the position you really want. If you don’t need to take a specific job, let’s assume that you’re looking for an upgrade or a change of your current role.

Evaluate what you really want in a career. What are the roles and responsibilities you enjoy having, and that make you feel the most successful? You have to take into consideration the environment, culture, management style and the company’s future as well as your working hours and the commute involved.

A basis will help you scan each opportunity that comes knocking. You don’t have to say yes to every offer you receive when you have a clear idea of what path you want to take.

Think of it as the same process you went through before you selected the perfect college. If you successfully set yourself up in an ideal company, then it will be a valuable experience that will allow you to be more successful in your chosen field.

Know the pros and cons. What are the perks and their trade-offs? Calculate the value of the benefits included in the offer. Remember that perks in all forms are offered for a reason. Do those benefits come with a trade-off? How much do you want or need their benefits?

Are you willing to work for a manager, team or business that may or may not be invested in your success? Look for people who will invest their time, impart knowledge, and award opportunity. Since it is tough to discern what knowledge is really important, having a mentor in your corner, or someone who is willing to guide, is priceless.

Look for companies with superiors that promote individual employee development. Your experts need not be experts as long as they’re excelling in their chosen field.

Now that you know how to respond to job offers, look for companies that will set you up for success.