conditional offer issues

I recently got an offer from an MM PE firm starting right as I finish my masters and my offer is conditional on me getting a pass without resits. The structure of my degree though is that to pass you need to get over a certain mark in every module, and while in 9/10 of my modules I have a distinction or merit mark I really messed up one module and so I am below a pass so technically fail this boundary and will have to resit. However, there are still some parts of the course left and my official grade is only received after my start date at the firm, i.e. they will only know after starting. Any advice on what to do?

 
Most Helpful

Unless you have backup offers or options, there's no benefit to telling your employer now. So strategically, don't. 

They might check your results post-joining, but you have plausible deniability of being aware, and maybe there's something you can work out with them at the time they do check. If you tell them now, you're just creating a risk that they'll rescind an offer sooner rather than later.

The only things you can and maybe should do is (A) have a conversation with your university, explaining your circumstances and whether there's any exemption to its rule, and (B) apply for some backup options.

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to know in your situation:

  1. Communicate Transparently: Reach out to your HR contact or the hiring manager at the MM PE firm as soon as possible. Explain your situation clearly and honestly. It’s better they hear it from you directly rather than discovering it later, which could potentially jeopardize your position and their trust in you.

  2. Seek Advice from Your Academic Advisor: Immediately contact your academic advisor or the relevant department at your university to discuss your options regarding the failed module. There might be a possibility for extra credit or a form of remedial work that could help you avoid a resit.

  3. Negotiate Start Date: If a resit is inevitable, you might need to negotiate your start date with the firm. Explain that securing your degree is crucial not only for meeting the conditions of your offer but also for ensuring you are fully prepared and qualified for the role.

  4. Prepare for All Outcomes: Prepare yourself for all possible outcomes, including the worst-case scenario where you might lose the offer. Start looking into other job opportunities as a backup plan. It’s essential to have options in case things don’t go as planned.

  5. Leverage Your Strengths: When discussing with the firm, highlight your strong performance in other modules and any relevant work experience or skills that make you a valuable asset to the team. This can sometimes help mitigate the impact of academic issues.

Taking proactive steps and maintaining open lines of communication with both your university and your prospective employer will be key in navigating this challenging situation.

Sources: I was fired today, don't know what to do...., Advice From an Advisor to Senior Wall Streeters, Advice From an Advisor to Senior Wall Streeters, The Work Always Gets Done, F*d up my career badly and depressed - need advice

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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