Case Study: Talk About a Busy Weekend!
Katherine, who would graduate in six months, worried that the tightened economy meant few or no job offers.
She was introduced to Company A at a career fair on Monday, and invited to visit the company's facilities on Wednesday. During the site visit, recruiters said that every employee made a six-figure salary within nine months, even though the company offered employees starting salaries lower than most in the industry. While at the site visit, Katherine was given the opportunity to speak briefly to two employees. Neither employee discussed salary during this session. Although Katherine had some reservations, she believed she could work for the company.
However, Katherine also hoped to receive an offer from Company B, a large, well-established company with a solid reputation. She had been interviewed by the firm, and was told she would be contacted shortly. Katherine planned to discuss her prospects with her parents. She also wanted to gather more information on Company A, in order to make a more informed decision regarding any potential offers.
The offer letter from Company A asked for a decision by the following Monday—three days away. The letter stated that the quick deadline was necessary because so many people wanted the few positions that were available. The letter emphasized the fact that the company would not grant any extensions.
Questions to consider:
- Is Company A's request that a decision be made within three days fair?
- Under the circumstances, Katherine is tempted to accept Company A's offer to allow her more time to research the company even though she might later renege on the offer. What advice would you give her? Would your advice be different if she were given three business days vs. three calendar days to make a decision?
- Should the company be required to provide the student with more information regarding their claim of six-figure salaries by all employees within nine months of service?
- What actions, if any, would you take with the company?
Current as of February 2013.