Hi there, 

No, you don't need a referral always. 

But it does help. 

And in a market where screening is tougher than it used to be, if you can get a referral it helps. 

If you have contacts in your target firms, leverage them. 

If you have contacts who have contacts in your target firms, leverage them. 

If you have nothing, use LinkedIn. Use the model below to create a funnel that will lead to referrals. (happy to also walk you through it if you have questions).

Then, in terms of how to lead the discussions with the consultants, on the referrals, you can use the following guide:

• Free Guide: How To Handle Networking Calls and Get Referrals

Last but not least, go broad with your application strategy. Here's a guide on how to build one:

• Free Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Hope you find these helpful!

Comment or DM if you have followups.

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

Let's keep this really simple:

1: Aim for a referral

2: If you don't get one, still apply

Referrals help a lot. But they are not a necessary condition for getting an interview. Please please still apply. But please don't “plan to apply without referrals”….hustle for what you want and network as much as you can.

Here's some reading to help:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-get-a-consulting-internship-tips-and-tricks

 https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/application-tracker

(editiert)

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• First of all, referrals can indeed provide a significant advantage in the application process, especially in highly competitive markets like London. In this tight economic situation, it becomes even more important to maximize your chances of passing the screening phase.
• Moreover, securing referrals does not take a lot of time, and you will also get in touch with current consulting staff of the respective target firms. This networking can offer valuable insights into the company culture and the work you might be doing.
• Lastly, although referrals can increase your chances, it does not mean that applying without referrals is futile. If you have a strong profile and can demonstrate the skills and qualities consulting firms are looking for, you can still succeed. However, I would advise you to also consider seeking referrals to further strengthen your application.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

(editiert)

It is possible to get in without a referral (i.e., they will consider your application), but it is true that a referral substantially increases your chances of getting to the interview stage. Unless you're coming from a target school, it's very worthwhile investing your time in networking to ultimately secure some referrals. It's the best thing you can do to increase your likelihood of passing the resume screen.

Hi there,

Q: Is it true you need referrals to stand a chance? 

A referral doesn’t guarantee an interview but it is going to increase your chances. You might get invitations also without referrals though.

You can find more on referrals below:

▶ How to Get an MBB Invitation

▶ The Exact Steps to Get a Referral

Best,
Francesco

Hi there,

I'll say it's NOT A MUST but strong referrals boost your chances of getting invited SIGNIFICANTLY. If your profile ticks all boxes, it won't matter, but if not then a referral can help push your application across the line. 

Feel free to reach out if you'd like to learn more on how to best approach this.

Regards, Andi

Hey, it's a good question.

Short answer: Referrals are generally a good way to boost your chances to get an interview invite.

But, most London firms for the Business Analyst/Associate roles do not have official referral processes for their applications. 

A few firms like OC&C and Roland Berger might take referrals but it's less likely. 

Referrals are still relevant for MBA applications because the roles are more senior.