Hi there,

You should have networked, but it's too late now. Networking increases your odds. But not networking doesn't make your odds 0.

Apply now! Then, if you don't get interviews you can then also network in the spring and re-apply.

Good luck!

Please jump on your case interview prep now!

Some fit reading: https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/tell-me-about-yourself-interview-question

Some case reading: https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-shift-your-mindset-to-ace-the-case

Hi there,

Q: Should I still cold apply now or wait till spring to go for experienced hire (more time for networking)? 

This is a bit tricky as if you get rejected now you won’t likely be able to apply before 12 months. 

Still, unless you know there are going to be openings in the Spring with a preferential channel, I would apply now. The reason is that your risk to have most of the slots filled for your target office.

One thing you may attempt is to apply now and still network to get a referral post application. This is more difficult to get (the person referring you won’t get any bonus so incentives are lower) and may not have an effect if your application has already been screened, but no harm in trying it.

For more info on how to get referrals, you can check the article below:

▶ How to Get an MBB Referral

Good luck!

Francesco

Absolutely apply now. As you're at a target school the most important thing, as Ken said, is your CV. Networking is important for when you're not from a target school - or there is something out of the ordinary on your resume (e.g., did a second undergrad degree when you were much older) etc., 

Since you are at a target school, networking is less important. The strength of your CV + target school background should bear considerable weight. If you think your CV is solid, I wouldn't worry about the lack of networking and apply now.

Absolutely! 

I wouldn't be obsessed with referrals. They do help make sure your CV will be checked, but all candidates are treated equally, even if you have a referral but your CV doesn't fit, you won't get far. Having said that, I would rather recommend focusing the energy on preparing the winning CV and cover letter for the interview. 

I wish you all the best,

Lucie

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Hi there, 

I would apply now. Depending on the geography, referrals are not a much, though they surely help. 

Also, don't undermine what you can do in 3 days. Use the law of big numbers. Even if you write on linkedin to 30 alumni of your school who are in your target firm, if 5 of them answer and 1 gets on the phone with you, you might still have a change to get a referral within the next couple of days. And it only takes you a few minutes to write a message and then copy-paste it to the relevant people. 

Best,

Cristian

While it isn't ideal that you have not networked, I think it is better to try now given that you go to a target school. Also just because you have not networked yet does not mean you can't start to do so today. It just takes a few good conversations for people to be excited about you as a candidate.

Best,
Udayan

Hi,
I would apply now. If rejected, applying with another status (experienced?) will be allowed, especially if supported by a strong referral

Best,
Antonello

If you’re at a target school, I wouldn’t worry about it where your profile/CV is most important.  Networking is only a plus and interview invites are based on the merit of your application (not your network).  Good luck!