Does the referral level (Associate vs consultant) count for my application at BCG?

Hi there,

I didn't quite understand your question. Do you mean whether the level of the person giving you the referral makes a difference in terms of the value of the referral? Yes, to a degree. Human factor is still a factor.

Referrals are useful if you're applying off-season, if you're not from the target school, if you're an experienced hire. Otherwise, it's nice to have it but they don't guarantee you anything.

Hope it helps,

Cheers,

GB

Hey there,

In general, there is a slight tendency as you guessed it. The higher up the ranks or the more referrals, the more weight the referral(s) will have. At the same time, one referral is better than none. :-)

Try to build up a list of referrals from several people in your target firm.

Where can you get them?

a. Participation in events

b. Networking with alumni

c. Try to get into a mentorship program

How can you get good ones?

Leave the consultants with a positive impression. For example, you need to be memorable in the discussions you have, show some stellar performance in a case challenge, etc.

Be aware that after every recruiting event, HR will ask the consultants about the candidates during the event. If there are several positive observation points on you, you will get a call and encouraged to apply.

Cheers,

Florian

Hi,

Nope, it doesn't matter who refers you at that level. It could have more weight only if it was the partner, and even in that case, it would be unofficial.

Best

100%! A referral at any level is something you should be super happy about!

Partner level referrals are, of course, the holy grail, however, a referral from an Associate/Consultant absolutely increases (not guarentees) your odds of getting an interview invitation!

Yes, it does. Certainly somebody more higher in the tenure is more relevant, but also referrals from junior people are helpful to get your application on top of the pile.

Hi!

I'd say it does. Referrals are low-risk hires for any consulting form. You have to check alll the other boxes anyway, so having that personal bound helps not just to get in, but also get going.

Best of luck,
Chris

The balance might tilt slightly if you are referred by someone more senior or a partner and they strongly vouch for you internally. But otherwise, not much impact really. Make sure your CV, cover letter are worthy of attention in addition to the referral.

Hi there,

Yes, a referral will help. The more senior the person referring you, the better, thus the consultant one would work best.

You can find more on referrals here:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/hey-everyonehope-all-is-well-3176

Best,
Francesco

Hi,

A consultant is definitely preferred, but they're both good options.

Good luck.

Best,

Antonello

Hello!

All referrals work the same way. 

What they ensure is that your CV will be in the recruiter´s table, nothing else. 

From there, it´s the normal recruiting funnel, and you are on your own

Hope it helps!

 Best,

 Clara

Hi,

There will be slight difference in weight if your refereal coming from a more senior person in the firm. E.g. If the referral come from PL then it can carry more weight as it means the PL will be comfortable to have you in his / her team.

I would suggest to establish contact with several people in the target office to increase your chance of getting a referral.

Best,
Iman