Reapplying to MBB with referral from partner
I'm currently working with an MBB firm at a client company on a transformation project. When the local team rolled off, one of the consultants (not a partner) I had been working with offered me a referral which I accepted. I received an email from the recruitment team saying they would get back to me. I didn't hear anything more for a month so I followed up and they came back with a generic 'no roles at this time', with no other feedback.
I was slightly surprised my application didn't progress at all as my resume is on par with other consultants at the firm and I had someone internal advocating for me who believed I would be a good fit and could do the work.
The project is still going and my new point of contact is a partner based overseas. I think they would refer me if I asked.
Would it be worth trying again with a referral from a partner or should I just give up on this particular firm?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:
Effectiveness of Partner Referrals:
Previous Referral and Application:
Next Steps:
Reapplying Strategy:
Networking and Persistence:
Alternative Options:
In summary, leveraging a partner's referral is a strong move and can significantly improve your chances. Don't give up on the firm just yet; persistence and strategic networking can pay off.
Sources: Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, MBB process question, Q&A: Former MBB Consultant, Rock Bottom but ain't giving up, Q&A: Former MBB Consultant
Internal advocates are VERY important. They can definitely push someone over the edge in getting an interview offer. I know this firsthand because I've been able to push for multiple alums to be granted interviews that were relatively weak on paper compared to some of the other target school candidates.
I can tell you that experienced hire recruiting (industry hires such as yourself) is extremely slow right now.
If you have a competitive resume, I wouldn't give up just yet.
Can you actually secure a strong referral from a partner? Was your current referral "offered" to you? Or did you ask for it?
Not all referrals are equal. We actually score candidates that we refer. Sometimes if an unimpressive person asks for a referral, I may give them one but score them at 50%. (I think this process is different across MBBs, so maybe this situation wouldn't apply to you)
Non aut rerum qui aperiam sapiente. Consectetur et alias sit nostrum eligendi delectus aut. Quisquam sint consequatur at eum repudiandae ea enim impedit. Labore culpa doloremque esse repudiandae aut eum.
Maxime quod sunt eveniet sed optio deleniti. Error perspiciatis aperiam dolorum possimus eius odio accusantium. Et nobis eligendi rerum voluptatibus nihil quaerat. Voluptas laudantium ut ut aspernatur.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...