Hi everyone! I have the following question, I am currently looking to transition into a job in consulting as an experienced professional. I graduated from highschool in 2010( IB Diploma). When uploading my resume via the online application portal I was also asked to upload my highschool grades. Unfortunatley I didnt get the best grade on my IB and am afraid if I enter it the pre-screen software will immediately cast me out. Can someone please advise me on what the best step forward is? For example, could I just enter in words that I passed or completed the IB program without giving a numerical grade, or will that also trigger the system to cast my application out? I appreciate any help and guidance surrounding this specific matter. Thanks
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Hi Kevin, thanks for your reply. What I am worried about, is the pre screening software system immediately eliminating my application from ever being viewed by a human due to the IB grade being lower than their system allows. Is that possible or does the algorithm not filter like that? Beyond the IB grade, I think my profile fits very well to what they are looking for based on my work experience. If I do share my IB grade, should I mention it in my motivational letter, why it was low? Should I go through the effort of trying to get my regular high school grades to send those along with my IB? The best part of my IB was the extended essay, where I received a A(excellent), but the exams weren't great. Should I highlight that? I dont know if I should just enter the grade and not say anything unless they ask me, or better to comment on it immediately, within the motivational letter for example? Also they say on the portal that a motivational letter isnt needed, but than later say, you can upload one if you want. Would you always recommend doing this? And would having a written reference from a former boss also be good way to balance the IB grade, or is it enough if my Uni and CV look well? Thank you so much, if you are able to share guidance on any of these questions!
Hi again,
I understand your questions and concerns. While I cannot share specifics on algorithms or the system, I will try to answer to as many points as possible.
1. If you can get additional, good grades to demonstrate your academic Achievements, that is definitely a good idea.
2. If you decide to mention it in your motivational letter, careful wording is of great importance. It should be a convincing overall storyline and not sound like an "excuse". I'm happy to review your CV / cover letter to ensure it is worded adequately (e.g., as "demonstrating resilience in overcoming obstacles", if applicable in your case - let's discuss).
3. Alternatively, you could decide not to make a big deal out of it and just list it as part of an overall convincing application - that would require evaluating your overall profile and application, to gage your chances.
4. Excellent references always improve your chances
Kind regards,
Kevin
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Hi there,
I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:
- First of all, I would advise you to upload your high school transcript as it is, even if the grades are not strong - especially since your application is as an experienced hire.
- Moreover, I would advise you to not leave out or alter any information like replacing the grade with "passed" or similar wording - this could backfire if your file is later reviewed by a recruiter or flagged.
- Lastly, I would strongly advise you to shift your focus to making your professional experience stand out - recruiters will care much more about your work history and problem-solving skills than about a grade from 2010.
You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.
If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.
Best,
Hagen
Hi there,
While grades do matter (especially in DACH), it should not necessarily be a deal breaker (for experienced hires in particular).
I would always advise you to be honest and transparent and enter all grades as requested.
Focus on positively standing out with the rest of your application instead of trying to hide something. You will reap the benefits and have a good conscience along the way.
Kind regards
Kevin
I understand your questions and concerns. While I cannot share specifics on algorithms or the system, I will try to answer to as many points as possible.
1. If you can get additional, good grades to demonstrate your academic Achievements, that is definitely a good idea.
2. If you decide to mention it in your motivational letter, careful wording is of great importance. It should be a convincing overall storyline and not sound like an "excuse". I'm happy to review your CV / cover letter to ensure it is worded adequately (e.g., as "demonstrating resilience in overcoming obstacles", if applicable in your case - let's discuss).
3. Alternatively, you could decide not to make a big deal out of it and just list it as part of an overall convincing application - that would require evaluating your overall profile and application, to gage your chances.
4. Excellent references always improve your chances
Kind regards,
Kevin
Hey there :)
If you’re applying as an experienced hire, your IB grade from 2010 won’t be a main filter, firms care more about university, work experience, and achievements now. Still, the portals sometimes ask for old grades just for completeness.
You can upload a transcript and highlight only that you completed the IB diploma, no need to enter a numerical grade if it’s optional. If it’s a required field, enter the score truthfully, but don’t overthink it. Strong experience usually outweighs old school grades.
Let me know if you want a quick CV check!
best,
Alessa :)
Hi there,
Put the results as they are.
They don't screen you out just because of some grades. And if you're applying as an experienced professional that component of the application doesn't matter that much anyway (it's rather a legacy section from graduate cohort applications).
Best,
Cristian
Hi there,
Q: Can someone please advise me on what the best step forward is?
If they ask for a specific document, you have to upload the actual document, unfortunately, there are no alternatives. If you modify the document, this could backfire when they do the background check post-offer.
In any case, it is unlikely that they will heavily weigh grades from several years ago.
Good luck!
Francesco
You're not likely to get screened out due to your high school grades with your level of experience. I would suggest that you include everything as it is.
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