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Jason

on Nov 18, 2020

Global

Networking: Should you ever pitch yourself?

Hi there - I have a few calls scheduled as I network and build relationships - hoping to land an MBB referral.

In the past, I have been "okay' at coffee chats, just getting by. One thing I don't usually do is sell myself much (other than the initial introductions). I have the basics covered with being attentive, asking insightful questions, and just having a conversation. However, I had a more specific question.

In effective networking, do you want to pitch yourself? E.G. speak for 60 seconds just about yourself & one of your experiences. If so, when/how to fit it in?

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Top answer

Deleted user

on Nov 18, 2020

You should absolutely prepare such a pitch as an introduction for your coffee chats and other opportunities to network with the people you're interested in. I would not use it after you have established a relationship.

1 comment

Jason

on Nov 19, 2020

Hi Henning, thanks for your response. I think at the beginning the introductions I try to do that (fit in "why consulting, why firm, why me", all into intro), but I actually meant in the middle or end of the call whether one should start tactfully referencing an experience (60 second monologue)

Ian

Coach

on Nov 18, 2020

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

Hi Jason,

Absolutely!

Of course, you need to do so tactfully, right. You can't say "I'm awesome at x. I'm great at y"

What you need to do is imply talent/skill. Reference different things you have done. Of course, if they ask for your background, be ready with a killer resume walkthrough (brief but sharp).

At the beginning of a call, you can always "propose" a walkthrough. Say "So, I guess you don't know much about me...I'd be happy to just quickly give you some of my background before we begin? I'd love to hear yours as well"

1 comment

Jason

on Nov 19, 2020

Hi Ian thanks for your response. I think at the beginning the introductions I try to do that (fit in "why consulting, why firm, why me", all into intro), but I actually meant in the middle or end of the call whether one should start tactfully referencing an experience (60 second monologue)

Vlad

Coach

on Nov 19, 2020

McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

You should always pitch and sell yourself in any conversation, epecially when it is recruiting and you want a referal. Very useful skill

Best

Deleted user

on Nov 19, 2020

Hi Jason,

The best way to approach this is to remove the pressure of proving yourself every 30sec and just have a relaxed conversation. Prepare your profile summary/pitch statements and land that at a natural point in the conversation but dont force it or keep thinking about when to land it. Keep you self orientation low and make the interaction about the other person. The flow will happen.

Have a look at this thread for some tips/ideas: https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/how-to-create-chemistry-with-the-interviewer-8271

Francesco

Coach

on Nov 19, 2020

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

Hi Jason,

If you mean your initial intro: you should prepare your own pitch at the beginning. They may ask to introduce yourself, if not you can volunteer to do so.

You can find more on referrals at the link below:

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

Best,

Francesco

Clara

Coach

on Nov 20, 2020

McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

Unfortunately, yes (I find it super uncomfortable).

However, it´s a good exercise and probably you will have to do it more times, so good practice.

Cheers!

Gaurav

Coach

on Dec 08, 2020

#1 MBB Coach(Placed 750+ in MBBs & 1250+ in Tier2)| The Only 360° coach(Ex-McKinsey+Certified Coach+Active recruiter)

Hi there!
I understand that sometimes you can feel very uncomfortable, however, you always need to pitch and sell yourself, especially during the recruiting process, especially if you are going to work into the consulting!
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GB