Applying to BCG after rejection

BCG
Edited on Jan 18, 2021
8 Answers
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Anonymous A asked on Jan 12, 2021

Hello!

I made a mistake of applying to a BCG position I wasn't completely suited for and got rejected last month. I wasn't given any time limitations with regards to when I can re-apply.

Now I found a position at the same office that perfectly suits me and I have someone willing to give me a referral.

Is it possible to apply after the initial rejection? Or is it a lost cause?

Thank you.

(edited)

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Florian
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replied on Jan 12, 2021
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets

Hey there,

Whenever you (re)-apply after a failed application (screening, aptitude test, or interviews) you need to make sure to show significant development in your resume since your rejection. Assuming you want to be hired straight out of university this means

  • New academic achievements (e.g., new degree, top of class achievements,...)
  • Experience abroad (career or university)
  • New job experience (internships, working student, project assistant,...)
  • New extracurriculars (leadership experience, NGOs, student clubs,....)

Usually, you are banned between 12 and 24 months from re-applying. Referrals can help both

  • shorten that time
  • increase your chances for a new invitation to the interviews

Cheers,

Florian

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Vlad
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replied on Jan 12, 2021
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

It depends on the roles. It'll help if you provide more context.

  • Example 1: you've applied for a generalist and now you want to apply to a certain practice. If it is <1 year, most probably you'll not be able to reapply
  • Example 2: You were rejected at the CV stage for a generalist, but now you found an implementation role that suits your profile. Chances are high that you can apply again.
  • Example 3: you've applied for an internship and now you are applying as an analyst. Chances are high that it's possible

As you can see there are many probabilities and we can't help you without additional info

Best

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Clara
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replied on Jan 12, 2021
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

The ban that is so commented in this chat usually applies to people that have been rejected during the interview process.

However, you mention a referral, which is fantastic. That should help you in this borderline situation, and at least ensure that the CV is reviewed by HR, that is the key thing.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

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Antonello
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updated an answer on Jan 18, 2021
McKinsey | NASA | top 10 FT MBA professor for consulting interviews | 6+ years of coaching

Hi,

I recommend writing HR for a smooth application process.

Good luck!

Best,

Antonello

(edited)

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Francesco
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replied on Jan 13, 2021
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

I agree with Vlad it depends on what the 2 positions are about. If they are related to different areas (eg Research vs Consulting) you may be able to apply again.

The best thing is to ask the opinion of the person referring you – he/she should be able to advise on that and/or present your case to HR.

Best,

Francesco

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Ian
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replied on Jan 12, 2021
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

Honestly, give it a shot! Really, what do you have to loose?

That said, also maximize your chances. Tell your referer that you made a mistake and applied earlier for the wrong position! Ask them if they can flag this to HR and see if you're still eligible.

In most situations, just talking to people normally does the trick :)

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Gaurav
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replied on Jan 12, 2021
#1 Career Coach for Aspiring, Practicing & Ex-Consultants|The Only 360° Coach - Ex-Mckinsey, Certified Coach & Recruiter

Hello there!

I agree with the experts and think that you should try, as you really don't loose anything, but before that make sure you explain this mistake to HR and the referrer.

Good luck!

GB

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Anonymous replied on Jan 12, 2021

You can of course always try. To avoid being caught by an algorythm, reach out to HR and also have your referrer reach out to them to explain the situation and why they think you would be a great addition to the team.

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Florian gave the best answer

Florian

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