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Anonymous A

on Mar 07, 2023

Global

Are references from previous employers necessary for MBB recruiting?

Will I be asked for references at any point during the process or during the background check?

Thanks.

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Top answer

Ian

Coach

on Mar 07, 2023

Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

It is possible yes. Cross that bridge when you get there. If they ask, figure out who is best. If they don't, don't. Instead of worrying about it now, spend that time/energy on actually doing well on your interviews!

Rachel

on Mar 08, 2023

I've worked at 2 consultancies and both asked for references once they had already made an offer. The calls were really casual.

1 comment

Anonymous A

on Mar 08, 2023

Were these in the US? Was it MBB, T2, boutique? Did it have to be supervisors at specific companies you worked at, or could you pick and choose which companies/people you provide references for?

Hagen

Coach

on Mar 08, 2023

#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 9+ years consulting, interviewing and coaching experience

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

First of all, while it might still happen, it is very uncommon to ask for references in strategy consulting. Most strategy consulting companies have signed contracts with firms that conduct background checks, making actual reference calls unnecessary.
Moreover, I would advise you not to worry about it now, assuming you did not recently receive your offer. When the time comes and you actually need to provide references, you can think about the strongest advocates and mention them.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to address your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Petros

Coach

on Mar 08, 2023

Ex-BCG consultant, ex-Goldman Sachs | Free Intro Session! | personalized preparation plan | >90% candidate success rate

It is very much office/country dependant; in the UK for example, firms primarily use background checks to ensure that candidates applying to them actually have been in the roles they claimed on their CV, with the actual companies and the correct titles; they are not used to determine performance, and they often do not even ask how the employee left his previous role (i.e. voluntary exit or termination).

Which country/office are you applying for?

1 comment

Anonymous A

on Mar 08, 2023

Spain.