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Hi all,

I am just in the middle of preparing for upcoming interviews as I'm transitioning from University to my first job.

In my last internship I impressed the company I was working for very much and got a direct offer at the end of my time there. I declined, mostly because I decided that I really want to work in a different industry.

Now, for my resume, is it good or bad to list that offer as an accomplishment? In a way I feel that it says more about the quality of my work there than anything else I could list. On the other hand, I have the feeling that it is slightly disrespectful towards this company.

I am looking forward towards reading your answers.

Many thanks
Andreas

thaGUma's picture

Include it certainly. Make it clear that you did not apply for or interview for a permanent position. The job offer is a clear indication that the company you worked for thought highly of you. Unless is was a MacJob?

Can you get someone at that company lined up to give you a reference if asked?

Chris

andreas's picture

Hi Donnachie, thank you very much for your reply!

[quote]Make it clear that you did not apply for or interview for a permanent position.[/quote]

I took part in a mathematics test while working there (I was asked to by HR). Although this was not by my initiative, it was clear to me that this is done in order to back up a potential offer.

[quote]Unless is was a MacJob?[/quote]

I had to look that up, but.. no :-).

[quote] Can you get someone at that company lined up to give you a reference if asked? [/quote]

Yes absolutely. I'm still in touch with my former manager there.

regas14's picture
Licensee Badge

I was in a similar situation coming out of school and I disagree with putting this on your resume.

Even in this case I suggest that receiving a job offer is not an accomplishment - it is a side-effect of accomplishments. This would be like a person listing their bonus or merit pay increase on their resume.

In order for that to hold value, I have to know so much more about the situation to understand why you received the offer and from whom you received it. I was in a similar situation coming out of school.

On the other hand, within the interview you can highlight accomplishments and state that you are proud that you were rewarded for your performance by receiving an offer for a full-time role. You can also then explain why you refused the offer and how the role you are interviewing for will allow you the opportunity to deliver even better results.

G.R.

andreas's picture

[quote]... I disagree with putting this on your resume. Even in this case I suggest that receiving a job offer is not an accomplishment - it is a side-effect of accomplishments. This would be like a person listing their bonus or merit pay increase on their resume.[/quote]

Great point. For me, this sums it up perfectly. Thanks, regas14!

bflynn's picture

I would lean toward not putting it on the resume. However, don't miss the chance to mention it during an interview. It says something when other people wanted to hire you.

Brian

WillDuke's picture
Training Badge

I agree with Regas and Brian. It's not an accomplishment. It's certainly valid to bring it up in the interview. Also, if you're lucky, your old manager will make mention in the reference he writes up for you. Andreas is absolutely right to point that out.

I don't see the disrespect. You were interning there. An internship is partly training, partly exploration, partly cheap labor. :) You did your part, and decided that wasn't the right thing for you. You met all of your obligations and chose to head in another direction. I don't see anything disrespectful there at all.

Oh, and buy the interview series from MT. The implement it. You'll be glad you did.