Re-applying after no response in first try

Question

Hi all,

I aplied to McKinsey more than 2 months ago and up until now I haven't gotten any response from them. I tried to reach out to both my 1st and 2do preferred office but, unfortunately, recruiters have not answer my emails nor my calls. I want to apply next year but, since I do not know whether I didn't make it pass the screening phase, I cannot know for sure whether I've been banned from applying for the next 12-18 months. So, I was wondering if withdrawing my application might have any impact in my future one. Any advice as to how I should proceed going forward?

Answer 1

Hi there,

When you say they haven’t answered your calls, you mean you haven’t been able to reach HR in any of the two offices? I would suggest to call again before taking other actions – it seems weird they haven’t answered phone calls.

For future applications I would recommend to work on your CV and in particular on referrals. You can find more on referrals here:

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

Best,
Francesco

Answer 2

Tough one. I would continue trying (calling them), rather than cancel the application.

Answer 3

I'm sorry for that. This is really awkward situation.

I would recommend you to try to reach out to HR, before you withdraw your application.

Which office are you applying?

Answer 4

Hi there,

First: Call HR. You should be able to get someone on the line with an answer

Second: If you're truly unsure, you can perhaps withdraw the application (if you can afford to wait until next year)

When you re-apply, be very sure you are indeed a stronger candidate.

In order to not miss your shot again, you need to ask yourself the following:

1) Have you gained more experience?

2) Have your show progression (promotion and added responsibility) at your job

3) Does your resume look better? (Better format, sharper bullets, etc.)

4) Have you networked with the company + office?

If you answered "No" to more than 1 of the above, do not re-apply until you've addressed the above Otherwise, you'll have ruined your chances a 2nd time.

In Summary: how do you improve your screening chances?

1) Gain experience (internships, bootcamps, classes, stratups, extracirriculars, etc).

2) Network - speak to multiple people across offices and aim to get a referral

3) Review your resume - make sure your formatting is sharp/consistent, key words/experiences pop, and your experience bullets are properly written.

Answer 5

Hi Anonymous,

This is a very awkward situation. Before making any rushed decisions about withdrawing your application or understanding whether you'll make a better chance as a candidate in 12-18 months, you need to no for sure what has happened with your application.

This means contacting HR again, or any person you know well within the firm, so they can find out what the exact status of your application is.

Cheers,

Pascal

Answer 6

Sorry to hear that.

TBH, only thing left could be go to the office in person and talk to HR there to get answers.

Good luck!