Had a Phone screen interview for specific Industry group that I didn't really care about - bombed it, am I screwed for Generalist?

I had a phone screen interview (no idea that It was going to be technicals at all, I assumed it would just be behavioral and I came in super unprepared) and bombed it, but it was a really specific industry group and I'm more concerned with Generalist program at this firm. Then a VP in the generalist office reaches out to schedule a call, I reply, and he hasn't replied in a week now to set something up. Am I screwed? Did i get dinged from the other office interview or should I follow up and ask him if we can still set something up?

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There's no harm in following up once, just be polite and say you're interested in the role and would love to set up a time if he's still available. 

That said, yes, they can very likely see you bombed that interview. Candidates are managed in a CRM (Workday) just as you'd manage anything else.

Bombing industry technicals is one thing (i.e. if you interviewed for RX and did fine other than the RX items), but if you got a poor rating and the feedback was "he doesn't know any IB technicals at all" the VP is probably not going to waste his time hoping you've learned them in the last few weeks.

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's not uncommon for candidates to have a rough interview, especially when caught off-guard with unexpected technical questions. However, bombing an interview for a specific industry group doesn't necessarily mean you're out of the running for a generalist position. Here's what you can consider:

  1. Different Teams, Different Decisions: Each group within a firm may have its own hiring process and make independent decisions. Just because one interview didn't go well doesn't mean you're automatically disqualified from other opportunities within the firm.

  2. Communication is Key: Since the VP from the generalist office reached out, it shows there is interest. It's possible that the VP is busy, and the lack of response could be due to their schedule rather than a reflection of your candidacy.

  3. Follow-Up: It's perfectly acceptable to send a polite follow-up email if you haven't heard back in a week. Express your continued interest in the generalist program and inquire if there's a convenient time to schedule the call.

  4. Prepare: In the meantime, prepare for this potential interview by brushing up on both behavioral and technical questions. This way, you'll be ready for whatever the interview may throw at you.

Remember, persistence and preparation can make a significant difference. Good luck!

Sources: Failed to "Break In" at my MBA Program - Next Steps?, Thoughts on this gutsy post-interview follow-up email?, Advice & Perspective for those that struck out, Goldman Sachs Veterans Integration Program (VIP) 2017, GS Veterans Integration Program (VIP) 2019

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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