For experienced hire spots in MBB, how does timing work?

Question

Do they apply a FIFO (first in first out) system or a LIFO (last in first out) system for applicants?

So for example if BCG NYC has 0 spots open right now and it sees 80 applicants in September, 80 applicants in October, 80 applicants in November, then in December 2 spots open from C1's leaving, how do they manage interviews?

Do they review the entire set of 240 apps when those 2 spots open up? Do they start with the stack of applicants in the order they came in and select/interview them until they've found 2 they like enough, throwing away the rest of the stack? Or do they review applications as they come in so that it would be most advantageous to have applied most recently so that you're most fresh in their heads when they're selecting candidates for interviews?

Answer 1

In Consulting, there is typically no targeted hiring for specific spots. Applications are typically reviewed on a continuous basis and interview invitations are typically sent out continuously. People are hired and leaving all the time, and recruiting for a spot and signing new candidates doesn't only start when someone is leaving.

Having said that, of course these times require many firms to make adjustments. We've seen partial hiring freezes over the last few months (most have been losened by now) and an increase in the threshold to get invitations/offers.

Answer 2

Hi there,

To answer your real question: Apply as soon as you are ready.

Meaning, apply when you have a killer resume, a strong cover letter, and have networked well with the company (and, ideally, gotten a referral).

Also, if you're applying through a unversity program, apply before the deadline!

Forget about the rest.

But, to answer your question that really has 0 impact on anything you do moving forward and is just being asked to help you feel like you have some sort of control when you really have none, these companies hire continuously and recruit continuously. so, it's more rolling than anything.

Answer 3

Hi A,

You seem to be missing out on the fact of continuous hiring in MBB. It's not about someone leaves and then the recruiting process begins.

You are also unlikely to have any advantage over those who applied earlier than you unless you have a stronger background and more professional experience that could really differentiate you from other candidates.

So make sure you are well prepared to secure an invitation to the interview and then to get a job offer despite the pipeline.

Best,

André

Answer 4

It seems to me that you over think about the process. The hiring is not triggered by particular vacancy - i.e. the firm doesn't wait til 1 consultant to resign then open up hiring for 1 spot. The hiring for experienced hire is on-going.

Just apply when you are ready and prepare well for the interviews. Don't try to "time it", it doesn't work that way and there are too many moving pieces that are not in anyone's control.