Bain Coffee Chat + Rejected from Oliver Wyman

Question

Hi! Im wondering about the coffee chat and networking process for MBB? What is the ideal number of people that you need to coffee chat with? I have been doing 4 to 5 and really tried to follow up with them like at least twice, meeting them online and then at an in person networking event, and I'm not sure if all of them are super passionate about me but I hope I had a good impression on them. In one of the scheduled coffee chats by Bain, my laptop glitched so I was kicked out and had to join back, is that fine? I also came late to one as my connectivity was very bad as I had to leave class early for it, though it wasn't with someone who was in the office I want to apply. I got rejected from Oliver Wyman before proceeding to the interview stage and now Im just pretty nervous coming to the MBB recruiting cycle and overthinking every part of the process, of how I could have done better. I would appreciate any thoughts, thank you!

Answer 1

Hi,

The application process is definitely one that is nerve wracking and it's normal to feel anxious.

If you are already trying to network, then you are already on the right path (whether or not you are doing it effectively is a different conversation).

Just know that networking is challenging and its hard to get a referral - so of course based on a funnel concept the more you reach out to then the higher the chance of success. But, that doesn't necessarily need to be so - sometimes all you need is 1 person to trust and like you.

So what's my tip? In a short forum post, I would encourage you to

Be yourself
Alway's be 'present' and be focused
Empathize and think from the other person's POV (e.g. why would I give up time to speak with this person? How would I feel if i'm someone asked me to...)

All the best!

Answer 2

Hey there :)

First of all, totally understand how you're feeling, and it’s really normal to overthink when you care so much about the outcome. The good news is: you're already doing a lot of things right. Having 4 to 5 coffee chats and following up sincerely is a great effort, and quality definitely matters more than quantity. It's not about hitting a magical number but building a few genuine connections who can remember you positively. Also, tech issues like a laptop glitch or being slightly late because of class are absolutely okay — these things happen, and consultants know it. As long as you were polite, followed up, and kept the energy positive, it won’t hurt you.

About Oliver Wyman, don’t let that rejection make you doubt your chances at MBB. Every firm has different criteria, and a rejection there doesn’t mean you won’t be a strong candidate for others. The MBB recruiting cycle is stressful, but remember that showing consistency, humility, and a real interest in the firm (like you're doing) already sets you apart. Keep focusing on preparing strong stories for your fit interview, tightening your case skills, and just being authentic in interactions.

If you ever want to run through anything or chat more, feel free to reach out :)

best,
Alessa :)

Answer 3

Hey, there are no strict rules about how many people to network with.

It’s worth casting the net wide, and investing in relationships where you feel a connection.

Re the Bain coffee chat - nobody will mind about that, it happens to everyone from time to time.

Best of luck!

Answer 4

Hi there,

First of all, sorry for the rejection. Don't take it personally, sometimes it has nothing to do with you and it happens that they are in a period of limited hiring.

Regarding networking, I think it is much less about how many people you network with and much more about talking to decision makers. People who are analysts to managers, have very little decision power in hiring. What you need to do is find a decision maker (senior manager or partner) that either is in the industry area that you are interested in or that has a similar profile to yours (school, starting point etc) and send them a message on Linkedin/Alumni channel expressing your genuine interest in consulting and asking if they would be interested in a coffee. I personally have done it with two of the MBBs and it worked.

If you would like help in identifying the right person or drafting your message / CV to reach out, please chat me.

Hope it helps,

Sasha

Answer 5

Hi! First of all, it sounds like you’ve been putting in a solid effort with networking, and that’s great. Networking is definitely helpful — especially for getting your foot in the door and, ideally, finding someone who can advocate for you internally.

That said, it ultimately comes down to the interviews — and being successful in each one.

When it comes to interviews, the case part is important — that goes without saying — but don’t underestimate the fit component. A very strong fit can often make up for a case that isn’t perfect.

My advice: keep networking strategically, but shift your energy toward mastering the interviews. That’s the real key to landing an offer. Don’t let a past rejection shake your confidence — keep practicing, and approach your next round with more preparation and self-assurance.

Best of luck!

Answer 6

Hi there,

It sounds like you're trying hard. Just make sure you're not trying too hard. That's also problematic.

Basically, try to see these coffee chats as opportunities to learn more about the industry and how real consultants experience the job. If the chat hits it off and a particular consultant offers you a referral great, but don't hunt them around because it will achieve the opposite effect.

I've actually put together two guides on how to engage with consultants on coffee chats and also how to get referrals. You might find them useful. Here they are:

Best,
Cristian