Recruiting Politics
Hi guys, so I recently finished my summer internship and was told I was going to get a return offer. I would 100% accept but I don't have anything in hand as of now and it's been a few weeks since I finished. Is it okay to start networking in case things fall through or would that potentially come back to bite me? Not trying to step on any toes, just trying to be safe. I know my firm works closely with many firms I'd be interested in so don't know if I should avoid those for the time being? Would welcome any advice, thank you!
I'm only a second year analyst so some people may have more experience and give some better advice, but I would say that networking and updating your resume constantly is always a good idea. It would be good to approach networking a bit more cautiously at first (instead of outright asking for a job you can just say that you're finishing up school and want to learn about the different areas of the industry), but it's always good to meet new people just in case.
Personally, if I don't have an offer I always have the mindset that I won't be getting the job, not from a gloom and doom perspective but because sometimes things happen that are out of our control and I'd rather spend a few weeks networking instead of waiting just in case something doesn't pan out how I imagined. If you're nervous about anything though why not contact your firm and see if there are any updates? There shouldn't be any harm in following up with them to see where their heads are at and what new developments may have come.
It is absolutely 100% correct and appropriate for you to network and even apply for other jobs, here is why...
1. You don't have an offer, so you are not hired, thus you should do what you must. As the song goes, 'if you like, you better put a ring on it'....... You have no obligation to them, as they have not made a commitment to you.
2. We are in a recessionary period with an active pandemic, jobs are less guaranteed. This firm may be fine, but it could lead to simple decisions not to hire. They may never layoff or do anything, but you can't count on anything. (note, this could be true even in good times, so you still can't count on anything).
3. You may end of networking for your 'second job', who knows, always good to have connections at more places. It's also better insurance if something happens later on at this firm, never can start this too early.
4. Your confidence will be boosted, and you can be a better negotiator with this firm if and when they do make the offer. If they are your only prospect, then you are in a bad place from leverage. Mentally, you will be better and happier if you are putting all the chips on this one bet.
5. If you get traction, interviews, or even another offer, it would become tactical leverage in securing an offer with this firm. In the real world, this happens all the time. Just like having multiple bidders on a property, it only raises the price. I could never personally imagine someone getting 'offended' you get another offer, if they like and want you, they will be like 'oh shit, we gotta get this offer to him ASAP, let's not go cheap either'.
Really, I don't see any downside unless in your networking discussions you trash this firm. Just be positive, and it's fair to say things like "I did this internship and I may get a full-time offer, but as I cannot be sure it will come, I want to explore the market and network". People will respect it, you don't really have to disclose your thoughts on this potential of an offer either.
Bottom line, if you don't have a job offer, it's okay and expected to network and apply for jobs.
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