MBB ban period

It's a global ban, all of MBB uses a global tracking system for applications and interviews/decisions. If you re-apply in a different region I would highly recommend doing so with a referral from a partner in the office you are interested in.

Hi there,

Q: I wonder if MBB ban period applies to all regions? Does this also apply to tier 2 and tier 3 firms as well? 

The ban in consulting is normally global and usually lasts 12-18 months. However you may try to (i) find a referral in a different geography and (ii) disclose the previous rejection and check if they might be able to help in case you have developed a significant experience in the meantime.

I would wait at least 6 months before doing so, in order to show some improvements in your CV. In the meantime, you can apply to other consulting firms.

You can find more on referrals below:

▶ How to Get an MBB Invitation

▶ The Exact Steps to Get a Referral

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

Yes, the ban period applies universally. There have been some instances where it is not count, but I would not count on it. 

Rather, you need to 1) Select 2-3 offices in your initial application 2) Put everything you have into the application (network a ton, get your resume professionally reviewed, etc.)

Remember, Einstein once said “insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results”

Here's some reading to help (advice applies for internships and full-time): https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-get-a-consulting-internship-tips-and-tricks

Yes, it does apply to all regions. 

Of course, most firms don't have perfect databases to figure out that you were already rejected in a certain region. So sometimes candidates purposefully apply with a different email address in the hope of not being discovered. It's an option, but obviously not an ethical one. 

Instead, what I'd recommend is that you try to go broader with your application strategy and target more firms as well as work on developing an excellent application package. You can find all the steps for this laid out in the article below:

• Maximising your chances of getting a consulting job during an economic downturn

Best,
Cristian

Hello A,

The ban period for reapplying after an unsuccessful interview can vary between different regions and firms. 

1. MBBs (McKinsey, BCG, Bain) have a strict ban period of 12-18 months regardless of whether you want to apply to a different region or not.
2. The ban period for tier 2 and tier 3 firms can vary. These firms may have their own policies and timeframes for reapplication which in many cases is different for each region. It is recommended to reach out to the specific firms or consult their official websites for accurate and up-to-date information on reapplication policies.

Again, to ensure you have the most accurate information, I recommend reaching out to the HR departments or recruiters of the firms you are interested in. They will be able to provide you with the specific details regarding reapplication policies for different regions and offices.

Best wishes,

Victoria

Hi there,

• for MBBs it's global, but in some locations strong referrals can help nevertheless.
• for Tier 2s it depends on the firm - most of the major ones also have global tracking, but are typically a bit less stringent about it than MBB

Hope this helps.

Regards, Andi

Hello,

In MBB the ban typically applies globally, though feel free to check with recruiters about your specific situation. Other firms tend to have similar ban policies, ranging between 6 months - 18 months. You typically want to add something to your resume before reapplying.