BCG Switzerland Letters of recommendations

This is rare but does happen. View this as an opportunity to shine!

Hi,

Is this an A or C role and are you an experienced hire? In BCG the roles are Associate, Senior Associate, Consultant.

The need for recommendation letters varies by system. As an experienced lateral hire myself, I was asked to provide references (not letters), and they did contact my references from my previous firm. 

In any case, whether or not it is standard practice does not really matter for your situation now - you just have to adapt and react to it appropriately. 

The reason why I ask if you are an experienced hire is that Letters of Recommendation can be tricky typically if you are applying discreetly. What I would do is the following

1. Clarify the specific expectations on the Letter of Recommendation (e.g. does it need to be on an official letter head, what is the timeline expected)
2. Start reaching out to trusted previous employers to prep them for this
3. Depending on the timeline and process (i.e. do you necessarily need these letters to pass screening or is it more for post-offer verification) you will have some flex to prime your recommenders

Hi there

as other coaches mentioned - it's not so standard to ask for recommendation letters. However, some type of rerference that proofs that you worked for these firms in the roles you claim is typically required.

2 things you can do

1. Reach out to HR of your previous employers to issue a letter that certifies past employment with the firm (neutral reference)
2. Reach out to your former boss(es)/mentor and ask them to help with a reference letter that puts your performance in a good light (positive reference). If you have good relationship / left in good terms, this is usually the better way in the DACH region as it gives your profile stronger credibility. 

Hope this helps.

Feel free to reach out, if you need more tips on above.

Regards, Andi

It's not the global practice - but if they're asking this it's because it's that office policy - not something they're making up specific for your case.

Hi there,

Q: I have received an email from the recruitment team asking for letters of recommendation from my past employers. Is that a standard practice based on your experience?

Letters of recommendation are not a standard request, however some offices might have included them in their process. In any case, I would not worry about it as most likely it is a standard request for your position.

Best,

Francesco

Hi there,

This is indeed atypical for most offices, but I've heard of it happening before in Switzerland, so it might be specific to the office. 

I wouldn't be concerned about it. Just reach out to previous employers and explain the situation. I'm sure that you'll be able to find a couple of vouch for you. 

Make sure to prioritise recommendations from the jobs that bear the closest resemblance to consulting.

Best,
Cristian

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Hello,

This definitely isn't standard practice, but it does happen from time to time. It's most likely not specific to your candidacy, but a requirement of the role/office you are applying to. No need to worry about it!