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Receiving an invitation to the local business unit location or office is an important step, but you still have some work ahead of you.
There are some key things to remember about the office visit:
- A second round visit is not a guarantee of an offer of employment.
- Come prepared to ask questions and learn as much as you can about the company.
- You may still be interviewed. Be prepared to discuss your background/sell your strengths.
- Maintain an upbeat, positive outlook throughout the day.
- Do not accept a second round visit invitation unless you are serious about potential employment with that company.
If you are made an offer before your second round visit that certainly takes some of the pressure off you, but don't forget you are still making a first impression with people you may work with in the future. The benefit of this situation is that the day will probably be designed to showcase all the benefits and opportunities the company has to offer you. It is a great opportunity for you to get the details of the issues that are important to you in your decision process.
Although the structure of a second round visit will differ among companies, you should anticipate meeting someone from every level and depth of experience. This will provide you with an opportunity to see how the roles change and what is expected of you. It also gives you an opportunity to meet as many people as possible.
Recruiting Meals
You may be asked to participate in a recruiting lunch. In some instances you might meet for dinner the night before or breakfast on the day of your interview, but the guidelines are similar no matter the meal. Lunch also varies among companies in terms of who will be your host. You will see everything from a one on one to everything in between (including group lunches involving all the candidates who are visiting that day).
There is an art to enjoying your meal, asking questions, and answering questions. Treat this as you would any business situation but have fun also.
Some helpful hints for your lunch:
- Order something light, (if you have appointments in the afternoon, you want to be at your best.)
- Do not be extravagant, but order something you enjoy and is easy to eat.
- Use your judgment when ordering beverages; your safest bet is to not order alcohol.
Good common sense should apply at all times during a second round visit, and lunch is no exception.
During the second round visit, your questions should reflect more than elementary understanding. The people you meet will expect that the basic questions have been covered during either on-campus presentations you've attended, the screening, or campus interview. Your research, in the form of more substantial questions, will prove invaluable.
Professionals take pride in what they do. That pride affects, to a great degree, how they will evaluate you during the second round visit. Similar to the evaluation criteria used for the screening interview, you will be viewed in the context of your professionalism, motivation, intelligence, and bearing. Three simple and very basic questions will be asked during the day: Is this candidate motivated to do this work? Would I want to bring this person to see a client, and would I enjoy working with this person?
The people you meet place great importance on their client relationships, and they want everyone who works with them to share that feeling of commitment and pride.
In some cases, an offer will be made immediately following your visit. In some instances and at some companies, an offer is extended days or weeks after the second round visit.
If you receive an offer, you should express your appreciation and establish a mutually agreed upon decision date with the closer. Be open. Let him/her know of your other options and don't allow yourself to be pressured into a quick decision. Make sure you understand all the terms of the offer (salary, benefits, start date, etc.). These areas should not be discussed before an offer is extended.
If you do not receive an offer in the office, ask your recruiter or human resource contact when you can expect a decision and how it will be communicated. Remain upbeat and positive.
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