Return offers are when you are offered another employment opportunity (either an additional internship or full-time offer) based on your performance during an internship. These typically are offered before the end of your internship.
Implement the below tips to maximize your chances of getting a return offer:
- Hit the ground running: Return offers are often decided about ½ way through your internship, so start strong. Begin by asking your manager questions like:
- What does success look like for me on this team?
- What are some mistakes you’ve noticed other interns make?
- What are the differences between a new grad engineer and an intern?
- Is there anyone you recommend I introduce myself to?
- Volunteer to support/collaborate: Raise your hand to support projects outside of your direct responsibilities or projects you are interested in. Showing your willingness to support the larger team will help set you apart from other candidates.
- Ask for feedback: Learning how to accept and implement feedback on your performance is an important part of becoming a professional. By asking for feedback, you are demonstrating your commitment to your own learning and will help you learn more about your strengths and weaknesses.
- Keep track of your contributions: As an intern, you may be support on various aspects of a project. Keeping track of your projects, meeting notes, etc. all make the foundation for a productive conversation with your manager where you might ask for feedback or discuss your mistakes—both traits that demonstrate maturity, and the fact that you're willing to learn and better yourself. The Skills Tracker may be helpful here!
- Build connections with your team and across the organization: A large part of getting a return offer is having your team members advocate for you. You want to give them a reason to vouch for you, and a way to make a compelling case that keeping you on board will make a real, positive difference.
- **Ask questions:**Your willingness to ask questions demonstrates your interest in learning and in the organization. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, ask for guidance or support. It demonstrates your maturity and commitment to professional growth.