Would this BCG application be okay?

Hi there,

Good that you're checking first. My advice: don't just use the link on your own. Ask your friend to check with the recruiting team first.

1. Why
Event links are sometimes tied to the guest list. If you apply without being on it, your application could get filtered out, or it might look like you skipped the line. Neither is a great way to start.

2. What I'd do

1. Have your friend reach out to the recruiter or BCG contact they met at the event. Something simple like: "A friend who meets the requirements is interested in this role. Would it be okay for them to apply through the event link?"
2. If they say yes, you apply with their blessing, and you may already have a warm connection in recruiting.
3. If they say no, you've lost nothing. They'll often point you to the right channel or let you know when the role opens on the portal.

Either way, you come across as respectful and proactive, which is exactly the impression you want to make.

Best,
Hatem

I'd pause before using a shared exclusive-event link you were never given. Those links are often meant for attendees, and firms sometimes track who received them; applying anyway can look like you bypassed the invite list even when you meet the role requirements.

Missing from the careers portal does not make the shared link safe. It means this channel is gated. I would email BCG recruiting, briefly explain that a friend shared an event application link and ask whether you may use it or how non-attendees should apply. Wait for a clear reply before you submit. Guessing the policy from a forum is the weaker move.

Hi there,

The best thing you can do is check with recruiting.

Things change and are often different across regions / recruiting channels. Just directly ask them whether the application link is intended only for people who attended the event, or whether you're fine to apply through it as well.

I wouldn't risk guessing here. If they say yes, great, apply. If they say no, you've avoided potentially creating an issue with your application.

Hey there :)

I’d apply through the link if you meet the requirements. If the link is still active and lets you submit an application, there’s no real downside to using it. The fact that the role isn’t currently visible on the public careers portal could simply mean the event application is being handled separately.

I’d just make sure you’re not misrepresenting yourself as an event attendee. If there’s a field asking how you received the link, answer honestly. Worst case, BCG will tell you the link is restricted to attendees.

Best, Alessa :)

I would recommend to check with your friend or the Recruiting Team (in case your friends has not received instructions). In case this link should be treated confidential, it would not make the best impression for the both of you. Usually the Teams are very specific about sharing and confidentiality with such information, so make sure you act compliant from the beginning. 

Hi there,

I wouldn't apply directly with the link. 

It might be the case that the applicants attending the event have already been screened, so that's very they are invited to go quicker through the process. 

You could ask your friend to check in with the recruitment team but I doubt it would work.

Do look however for similar events that you could attend.  

Best,

Cristian

“Ask it shall be given, seek you shall find, knock and the door will be open” - JC

There’s no harm in asking the recruitment team or getting your friend to bring you up to them. I’ve taken part in recruitment events and also was a lead referrer in the firm, normally such link are given for HyPo candidates (which they’d have a list), equally, a HyPo bringing you up could help you in being put up for upcoming exclusive events or building a direct relationship with the recruiter