I have been trying to network at a certain firm but it seems that people aren't willing to provide referrals. If I have a good CV reviewed by experts, do I have chances of passing the screening without a referral?
Hi,
Indeed, getting referrals is not easy. I too faced many rejections before someone was willing to refer my CV.
If you have a strong application - then yes, it will pass the screening even without a referral. The referral doesn't guarantee a pass on the screening, it just increases the chance your CV is reviewed by recruiting/HR.
All the best!
Which office are you applying for? the importance of referrals widely differs by region and office (eg Germany nearly not relevant). Warm regards, Frederic
Middle East Office. Any idea about this specific region?
With a good profile less relevant given surge in hirings.
Hi,
when I was applying, I had referrals for some companies and none for others. Referrals are a nice to have and increase the chance of a first round interview, but they are not the only way. Besides, you can also get rejected with a referral.
Go broad, reach out to a large number of people to see if you can get one but don’t miss any application deadlines just because you couldn’t get a referral.
Good luck
Hi there,
Q: If I have a good CV reviewed by experts, do I have chances of passing the screening without a referral?
You don’t necessarily need a referral to be invited for interviews, but it will increase your chances.
You can find more on referrals below:
▶ How to Get an MBB Invitation
▶ The Exact Steps to Get a Referral
Best,
Francesco
Absolutely! While having a referral can certainly be beneficial, it is not the sole determining factor for passing the screening process. A well-crafted CV, reviewed by experts, can showcase your qualifications and experiences effectively. It's important to highlight your relevant skills, achievements, and experiences that align with the firm's requirements. Additionally, make sure to tailor your application to the specific role and demonstrate your passion for consulting. While a referral can provide an added advantage, a strong CV can still make a positive impression and increase your chances of passing the screening. If you need any further guidance or assistance with your CV, feel free to ask.
A referral may help, but is not required - and most candidates get interviews without referrals.
And a hint: if you are asking for referrals you are unlikely to get one. You may ask them how to maximize your chances of getting an interview (i.e. giving them a hint) but you should not directly ask for a referral.
Hi there,
Networking/referrals do greatly improve your chances.
However, your chances are not zero without a referral. Far from it.
Make sure you're actually networking properly - reaching out to the right people in the right way, navigating the call correctly, and asking for the referral properly (many ways to do this wrong).
If you truly have given it your all and operated in the best way, then don't worry, you still have a shot without one!
For the Middle East, there are also company events through which you can apply (especially for Kearney and Oliver Wyman)
For MBB, they do take referrals but you might need to reach out to more people or target a less competitive office (Dubai vs Doha)
Which one do you think is more competitive? Cause I'm targeting the Doha office
Dubai is overall more competitive. (in terms of application volume)
Hi Ved! For Oliver Wyman, are these virtual events? I am interested in applying to OW Middle East office (I am asking because I am based in NA). Thank you! :)
Hey yes, you can find it here: https://careers.marshmclennan.com/global/en/job/R_244822/OLIVER-WYMAN-CORE-CONSULTING-GROUP-IMEA-EVENT-IN-UK-2023
Hi there!
Yes, referrals are by no means a must (I applied without referrals and some of my candidates often do this too), but it does help.
Perhaps the current referral strategy you have isn't yielding results. Have a look at the following two articles I wrong on how to get referral and maybe you pick up a couple of techniques you hadn't considered before. Also feel free to reach out over DMs if need some extra help:
Best,
Cristian
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Hi there,
Referrals are not mandatory but nice to have to accelerate the process and increase your chances to pass the screening phase. If you have a solid and well-written CV, it should work as well.
Best,
Alberto
