Application materials Dilemma

Question

Hello,

I'm a French native applying for a mix of MBB, Big 4 and boutique offices in Paris.

I feel more confortable submitting application materials in English (shorter formulation makes a better fit for 1 page CV format & 3/4 page Cover Letter format).

Would it be a disadvantage or perceived poorly if I apply in English to a French office?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Answer 1

I am French native as well, and like you more comfortable in written English. Yes, i fear it would be a disadvantage to submit applications in English vs. French. Most clients will be French speaking, and i have heard more than once of a non-native consultant being shoved to the side because he/she couldn't submit a report in perfect French

Answer 2

Hi, I also applied to Paris being French. Some companies asked for an English version when I submitted a French one. Furthermore, for MBB, I applied to multiple countries (on the application, they ask for the split), so I've written down my CV in English and for the Paris offices, it was not an issue...

Answer 3

I would say it depends but I don't think it's an issue. I am in the same situation than you (french but more comfortable in english). Some firms such as Monitor are actually asking you to send all the materials in French! We actually had that talk with one strat boutique where they said that all the deliverables are in english but all the disucssions are carried out in french with the clients. Good luck!