Partner vs Recruiter Advice

Question

Sometimes it is hard to decide whose advice to follow. Here's my example:

I'm in an Ivy League MBA program, but I also have 5+ years of relevant work experience. I spoke to a recruiter (to whom I have been directed by the Partner), she said, you should apply in January as Experienced Hire for a generalist position so that you would be ready by May. I then spoke to the Partner (she also leads the MBA recruiting at my school), who advised that I apply simply throgh my school's careers office.

I am inclined to follow the Partner's advice, but not really sure how to present that to the Recruiter next time we speak.

What do you think?

Answer 1

Hello!

I don´t see them contrarictory honestly :)

First, regarding your experience, 5 years + Ivy MBA is perfect for the associate position in MBB (called like this in Mck, changes for the rest, but is the post-MBA recruitment program-. For sure you will have plenty of chances to interview.

I would also leverage your in-campus recruitment mechanisms -particularly now that you have mentioned Ivy, since these mechanisms have among the highest ROIs when recruiting.

Furthermore, don´t forget to leverage the partner whith whom you have been already talking for a referral, to bost your possibilities.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 2

I think its fine to talk this over with the recruiter. Actually, in my case I recently graduated from an MPA at Columbia and I remember when the big firms recruited at my school, if we were still enrolled (so 2nd year MBA) it was actually specifically required to apply via my school in the fall before graduation the following spring. My experience could be different since it was an MPA and technically we recruite as a Advanced Professional Degree "fellow" Associates, but typically there is a very standard process for applying if you are an MBA and I would def clariy this with the recruiter in order to ensure you get an interview and there is no confusion.

Also, get on your case prep now! If you are applying via the school in the fall, your interviews will most likely be late fall or early Spring, but typically it is done in the fall. Let me know if you have more questions! Also, I am offering one free session and one 50% off session if you are interested :-)

Answer 3

I don't think the advice is contradicting. You could apply in January through your career office no?

If not agree with the Partner - apply through the careers Office as it gives higher chance of interview

Answer 4

Hi there,

Do both! Apply in January through your school's career office. Also, definitely make sure to keep a good relationship with the Partner and let them know when you're applying (hopefully they'll respond and offer a referral).