Rejection after final round BCG Dubai office and reason being limited understanding of CAGR ....how to overcome that in next application

Question

Hi

I have been rejected after the final round interview from BCG Dubai office. I had two interviews in final round and feedback I received: the first interviewer liked me and recommended me where as the second interviewer suggested that I missed a imp point during the case due to the limited understanding of CAGR.

I come from a science background having recently completed my PhD in Biophysics at university of Edinburgh. I prepared for the case interviews well or at least thats what I thought and had a decent understanding of financial concepts.

The recruiter told me to apply again in 6 months time. I am wondering what to do to improve my chances again and if I need to update my CV or add more experience and of what type of experiences( online courses, internships ) to improve my chances. I am currently thinking of taking time to prepare of the next application rather than start working. Would really appreciate any advice.

Thank you

Answer 1

Hi,

I am very sorry to hear that you did not received an offer. Please understand the difference between a pass and fail can be very small. They expect you understand and can interpret the basic economic vocabulary (e.g., inflation, CAGR, economies of scale/scope, synergies, NPV, ROI). I recommend reading the financial newspaper and do some research if you don't understand a certain parameter. On top of that, I would apply to other firms besides BCG.

Let me know if I can help you with cases focusing on economic vocabulary.

Mattijs

Answer 2

My advice, consider applying to other top consulting firms as well. You have a better shot of switching consulting firms than putting all your hope in one. That way, you’ve got alternatives during the 6 months.

Happy to have an intro chat to know some more context and see how we can set you up for success

Answer 3

Hi there,

That's highly unusual. I almost don't believe the feedback they provided you with.

It's absolutely ok not to be familiar with some of these terms. Even working consultants often need to look them up or at least spend some time remembering them.

The case interview is meant to test your skills, not your knowledge and virtually always it's ok to ask the interviewer to help you with the definition or to clarify a concept.

I would work rather on any other feedback they might've provided you with. In terms of formulas, you can learn this material I've put together and you'll be set:

Cheatsheet: The Must-Know Consulting Terms for Interviews

Best,
Cristian

Answer 4

Did you apply for the Advanced Degree role? And when did you have your 1st round?