Help! Sensitive situation with referrals

Question

Hello,

I am in a sensitive situation, I applied to an entry level position at McK after trying in vain for over 3 months to get a referral. After I applied, partners I had reached out to contacted me to tell me that they are willing to put me in touch with people in my target office (they don't know I already applied). What do I do? Do I withdraw my application and talk to them? Or do I wait and hope I don't get rejected and that they may refer me although I already applied?

All answers will be greatly appreciated since I am in a time sensitive situation (the office is supposed to reach out to us this week with their final decision).

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hey there,

Once the application is sent, do not withdraw it. There is nothing to gain from that and it would lead to confusion.

That being said, I would play it fully transparent with the partner. Tell the person you already submitted your application and politely ask if they would support it.

Fingers crossed!

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 2

Definitely don't withdraw your application. You should have your application screened as per the usual process as there is a formal deadline and if you are able to get someone in the local office to also refer you then great but it's not as big of a make-or-break factor as I feel you are imagining.

Fingers crossed!

Answer 3

Hi, I confirm to do not cancel your application. Only try to be supported in it from the partner so that the invitation process can be accelerated

Best,
Antonello

Answer 4

Hi there,

I would keep your application AND talk to them.

It doesn't hurt to expand your network (newsflash: networking doesn't end just when you get a referral to a company!)

But, when you do talk to them, note that you've already applied but are just looking to better understand x.

Answer 5

Hi there,

be honest with the partner and explain the situation to him. There is still a chance that his support will have an impact.

Fingers crossed!

Cheers, GB

Answer 6

Hello!

Don´t worry, is not a big deal.

Don´t withdraw and talk to the people. When they offer to refer, tell them you are already in the system and ask for advise on how to proceed.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 7

Why don't you just tell the partner that you have already applied? If they are impressed with you, they'll reach out to HR to refer you post-factum.