Negotiating with a Return Offer

I completed a diversity program without a target to internships (intended for 3rd year students in the fall) for a major company. I got an application code to apply to the full time role. I reached out to the recruiters I interacted with, giving them some information about what I completed and reaffirming my interest in the major company, about a month ago. I only have 10 more days to accept my return offer for the company I interned at this summer, should I reach out to recruiters and ask if there’s an update? They typically move pretty slowly, with full time hiring last fall going through November. 

2 Comments
 

If you're facing a tight deadline to accept your return offer, it's absolutely reasonable to reach out to the recruiters at the major company for an update. Here's how you can approach it:

  1. Be Polite and Professional: Start by thanking them for the opportunity to participate in the diversity program and reiterate your enthusiasm for the company.

  2. Mention Your Deadline: Clearly but respectfully explain that you have a return offer from your summer internship, which you need to respond to within 10 days. This provides context for your urgency.

  3. Request an Update: Politely ask if they could provide any updates on your application status or the timeline for their full-time hiring process. Emphasize that you’re trying to make an informed decision.

  4. Reaffirm Your Interest: Reiterate your strong interest in their company and how the diversity program reinforced your desire to work there.

Here’s an example of how you could phrase your message:

Subject: Follow-Up on Full-Time Application Timeline

Dear [Recruiter’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up regarding my application for the [specific role] at [Company Name]. I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the [Diversity Program Name] and appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the firm and its culture.

I wanted to share that I currently have a return offer from my summer internship, which I need to respond to by [specific date]. While I understand that your hiring process typically extends into the fall, I wanted to kindly ask if there might be any updates or insights you could share regarding my application status or the timeline for full-time hiring decisions.

I remain very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and am eager to contribute to the team. Please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide to assist in the process.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,
[Your Full Name]

This approach is professional, shows your interest, and provides the necessary context for your request. Even if they can’t expedite the process, you’ll have demonstrated initiative and maintained a positive impression.

Sources: 43 Diversity Recruiting Programs at Investment Banks - The Most Exhaustive List, Unemployed and living in parents' basement, losing hope, Teller's Comprehensive Guide to Diversity Recruiting, 43 Diversity Recruiting Programs at Investment Banks - The Most Exhaustive List, Teller's Comprehensive Guide to Diversity Recruiting

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