Careers Service Guide
2016
Career Development So you made it to the final interview
Once you have made an offer, what dos and don’ts can you suggest for further engagement with you?
Career Development
So you made it to the final interview… It’s great when you get past the first round of interviews. Don’t spoil your chances by unknowingly making the wrong move. We asked Careers Service employer partners to shed light on what makes people unsuccessful in the final stages, and to offer tips on dealing with job offers. What prevents students from receiving an offer having made it to the final round of interviews?
thank you
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LA: ‘Our finalists undergo week-long interactive workshops where facilitators gauge how well they interact with their peers, while assessing cultural fit. The primary reason that students don’t proceed to the offer stage is because there are others in the group who are more suited to the value set and culture of the company.’ TS: ‘While confidence and self-awareness in an interview is essential, don’t step over the line by being arrogant. Arrogance can negatively impact your interview and may give the impression that you are difficult to manage and/or that you may cause conflict within the team. Have concrete examples of your work and skill set but be respectful and attentive.’
CM: ‘A thank-you note after the interview always leaves a good impression. Always acknowledge receipt of an offer letter, even if you are not yet ready to decide. If a deadline is set to provide feedback on the offer, it’s polite to respond by this date rather than ignoring the offer if you aren’t going to accept it.’ TS: ‘Definitely follow your employer on social media. Actively participating in their posts and campaigns strengthens your connection with them. Keep them updated about changes in your situation or details before they even ask. Take part in initiatives and activities that you are invited to, build your network and form relationships before you start.’ LA: ‘If students sign a contract while still studying, they are encouraged to stay in touch with the company throughout the course of their studies. Given that forging authentic relationships with people at all levels is fundamental to career success, regular interaction with your future employer should not be overlooked once an offer has been secured.’
If a student receives an offer but is waiting for their first choice to get back to them, how do they deal with this? CM: ‘Most companies are willing to give a reasonable extension to the deadline date should the student request it, so it’s just a case of asking if that would be possible.’ TS: ‘Firstly, it is vital that you are transparent with all parties involved. Acknowledge the offer and thank the company for the opportunity they are affording you. There is no need to inform the company that they are not your first choice but you need to tell them that you are
partaking in a process with an alternative organisation. Ask what the deadline is on the offer and explain that you would prefer to have all the relevant information from the various organisations to make an informed decision. Employers should respect your honesty as well as understand the situation.’ LA: ‘Always be transparent and clear in your intentions throughout this process. I have yet to decline anyone who advised me at the outset that they would like more time to consider the offer before accepting.’
How can students turn down an offer of employment? CM: ‘Firstly, communicating that you will not be taking up the offer is a good place to start as opposed to just not responding! Thank the recruiter for their time and politely decline their offer. You aren’t the first person to decline an offer so while it’s probably an awkward conversation for you, the recruiter is used to it and will probably wish you well!’ TS: ‘It is best to turn down offers of employment in writing. Always be polite and respectful as you don’t want to lose potential relationships or future contacts.’ LA: ‘Be transparent when giving the reason(s) why you declined the offer. It is useful for prospective employers to be made aware of the factors that lead to your decision. There could be lessons learned in that feedback that could benefit the company going forward.’
TS: Tatika Scullard, PwC CM: Cindy Mati, Grant Thornton LA: Leanne Aitken, EY 47