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MBB blacklisting across geographies?

Hi,

Say if someone is blacklisted from applying, or is flagged for some reason (by HR in Europe or Asia), then goes to the US for an MBA and applies to MBB locally in the US.

Are global recruitment systems integrated enough to see that the candidate was blacklisted or flagged by Asia or Europe?

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Top answer
Hagen
Coach
edited on Oct 14, 2023
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 9+ years consulting, interviewing and coaching experience

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

  • First of all, consulting firms typically have robust recruiting systems. While the extent of integration can vary, it is rather probable that a candidate's history is accessible across different geographies.
  • Lastly, if you have concerns or doubts, it's always good to be honest and upfront about your situation. If there was a legitimate reason for a blacklist, explaining it to the recruiter may help. But, I would highly advise you to ensure you are genuine in your approach and not try to hide any information.

You can find more on this topic here: How to deal with a rejection from a consulting company.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Alberto
Coach
on Oct 14, 2023
Ex-McKinsey AP | Professional MBB Coach | +13yrs experience | +2,000 real interviews | +150 offers

Hi there,

I am afraid that MBB recruiting systems are global so blacklisting and ban periods would normally apply worldwide.

Best,

Alberto

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

on Oct 15, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: Are global recruitment systems integrated enough to see that the candidate was blacklisted or flagged by Asia or Europe?

If the ban was due to a rejection under normal circumstances, it would typically be global and usually last 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 considering that you’re doing an MBA in the US now.

You can find more on referrals below:

▶ How to Get an MBB Invitation

▶ The Exact Steps to Get a Referral

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.

If you have actually been blacklisted for special circumstances, it really depends on what happened and why you were blacklisted.

Best,

Francesco

on Oct 13, 2023
FREE INTRO I exMcKinsey EM I exKearney consultant I High Success Rate I Official Coach for HEC (160 coachees in 2022/23)

Hi,

From my experience the systems are global so you won't be able to apply anywhere in the world for a 1 to 2 year period. 

Cheers,

Alex

on Oct 14, 2023
#1 Rated McKinsey Coach | Top MBB Coach | Verifiable success rates

Hi there!

The databases are not as good as the firms wish them to be. 

So depending on the firm, they might not have an integrated database across these candidates. It's often office bound. 

Still, if you were blacklisted (first tell us how :) just for fun), I'd recommend you rather apply elsewhere to avoid disappointment later on - such as being removed from the process after you've already passed interviews. 

Best,
Cristian

———————————————

Practicing for interviews? Check out my latest case based on a first-round MBB interview >>> SoyTechnologies  

Ian
Coach
on Oct 15, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

I'm so sorry, but if you are truly blacklisted then it's going to be really hard to circumnavigate this…

It's “possible” but highly unlikely. Please just dont get blacklisted (it's pretty obvious what kinds of activities lead to this - just don't!)

Udayan
Coach
on Oct 13, 2023
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /12 years recruiting experience

The question is worded cryptically. What exactly do you mean by blacklisted? If you committed fraud or another act that HR deemed highly unprofessional you will not be able to apply to the same firm again. 

If it was just being rejected then the standard 2 year freeze applied. However, going to a top 8 MBA program in the US means they will still consider your candidacy before the 2 years is up.

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