How do you get a written contract after a verbal agreement?

1 Why you need a written contract

A written contract is more than just a formality. It's a legal document that spells out the terms and conditions of your employment, such as your salary, bonuses, commissions, benefits, vacation, sick leave, termination, and dispute resolution. A written contract can also include clauses that protect your interests, such as non-compete, non-disclosure, or non-solicitation agreements. A written contract gives you peace of mind and clarity, and prevents misunderstandings or disputes in the future.

2 How to ask for a written contract

Asking for a written contract is not rude or presumptuous. It's a standard and professional practice that shows you respect yourself and your employer. The best way to ask for a written contract is to do it as soon as possible after the verbal agreement, preferably within 24 hours. You can send a polite and enthusiastic email to the hiring manager or recruiter, thanking them for the offer and expressing your interest in joining the team. Then, you can ask them to send you a written contract for your review and signature, and indicate when you expect to receive it. You can also mention any questions or concerns you have about the offer, and request a confirmation of receipt.

3 How to review a written contract

Once you receive a written contract, don't rush to sign it. Take your time to review it carefully and compare it with the verbal agreement. Make sure everything is accurate and consistent, and pay attention to the fine print. Look for any clauses that may affect your rights or obligations, such as confidentiality, ownership, arbitration, or severance. If you find any errors, discrepancies, or ambiguities, don't hesitate to ask for clarification or correction. You can also consult a lawyer or a mentor if you need legal or professional advice.

4 How to negotiate a written contract

If you're not satisfied with the written contract, you have the right to negotiate for better terms. You don't have to accept the first draft as the final offer. You can use your research, skills, experience, and value proposition to justify your requests and propose alternatives. You can also leverage other offers or opportunities if you have them. However, be respectful and reasonable, and avoid making ultimatums or threats. Negotiate in good faith and aim for a win-win outcome.

5 How to sign a written contract

After you've reviewed and negotiated the written contract, and you're happy with the final version, you're ready to sign it. Make sure you read it one last time and understand what you're agreeing to. Then, sign it electronically or in print, and send it back to the employer as soon as possible. Keep a copy of the signed contract for your records, and follow up with the employer to confirm the receipt and the start date. Congratulations, you've secured your new job!

6 How to handle a delayed or missing contract

Sometimes, you may not receive a written contract as quickly or easily as you expected. There may be delays or complications due to the employer's internal processes, policies, or priorities. In that case, you need to be patient and proactive. You can follow up with the employer regularly, but not too frequently, and ask for updates or explanations. You can also restate your interest and enthusiasm, and remind them of the verbal agreement. However, if you don't receive a written contract after a reasonable period of time, or if the employer reneges on the verbal agreement, you may have to consider other options. You can try to escalate the issue to a higher authority, or seek legal recourse if necessary. But you may also have to walk away and look for another opportunity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?