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Bain refferal

Hi,

About a month ago, I received a referral for the Bain Associate position, but I haven’t received any email or update since then. I don’t want to bother the person who referred me, but I’m wondering what I should do.

Should I go ahead and apply directly through the company’s portal as long as the position is still open, or would it be better to keep waiting? The person who referred me confirmed that they submitted the referral0

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Top answer
Udayan
Coach
on Oct 29, 2025
Top Rated MBB coach | 300+ Real MBB offers | McKinsey Engagement Manager in NYC |15 Years Interviewing Experience

I would not hesitate to reach out to the person that offered to refer you. Write them a polite email and state you have not gotten a response. Most people understand the reason you are following up and will take action as needed.

If that does not work and you have no one else to reach out to then you can go ahead and apply.

Anonymous A
on Oct 29, 2025
The referral contact mentioned earlier that, according to HR, the screening process would begin on November 13. However, I know some of my colleagues who applied without a referral have already completed the online assessment and received interview invitations and we applied on the same time frame
that why im histant to reach out to my connecation
Udayan
Coach
on Oct 29, 2025
Top Rated MBB coach | 300+ Real MBB offers | McKinsey Engagement Manager in NYC |15 Years Interviewing Experience
Just ask them its okay
Kevin
Coach
on Oct 30, 2025
Ex-Bain (London) | Private Equity & M&A | 8+ Yrs Coaching | The Reflex Method | Free Intro Call

If I remember correctly from the Bain process, I think you should receive an email asking you to apply. You are best served following up directly and politely, asking for the guidance on the next steps.

There is a non-zero chance there is a system glitch and only HR can sort it out.

Hope it helps!

Jenny
Coach
20 hrs ago
Buy 1 get 1 free for 1st time clients | Ex-McKinsey Manager & Interviewer | +7 yrs Coaching | Go from good to great

Hi there,

If it’s been a month with no update, it’s totally reasonable to follow up with the person who referred you. Just send a short, polite message to update them that you haven't received anything, and ask whether there's a way to follow-up with HR. 

Annika
Coach
10 hrs ago
30% off first session | Bain | MBB Coach | ICF Coach | HEC Paris MBA | 13+ years experience

Hi there, great that you got a referral! 
Best to kindly follow up with your referee and they will guide you - if there is no news, jump on that application!

Once HR is in the screening process it should show also that you have been referred.

Good luck!

8 hrs ago
Top MBB Coach | Most Awarded ex-McKinsey Coach on the platform

If the person confirmed they submitted the referral, I would reach out to the recruiter and ask how the process work from now on. You can tell them who you spoke with and told you they referred you, and then clarify whether you should apply directly or not. 

Best,
Cristian