Does a previous failed attempt reduce the chances for a second interview invite?

Hi there, 

No. 

What's important is to make sure that you pass the screening again and to do that you must prove that you've accumulated sufficient experience in the meantime to be worth interviewing. 

Then make sure that you understand why you failed the last time, what are the main development gaps that you have and start working on them as early as possible. 

Best,

Cristian

What's going to be hardest is securing an invite to interview again. After that it's just based on your interview performance. 

So if you're able to convince them that you have a lot more to show for in the last 2 years and you deserve another shot then the odds are the same. 

Hello,

No not necessarily. I got through to BCG at my 2nd attempt :) 

Just be ready to highlight in your application and during your interview what has changed since your prior application, why do you feel ready now, etc.

All the best!

Rushabh

Your CV will have to look different than the first time around. Meaning you have to show some additional development that appeals to a consulting firm. Getting a referral also helps to secure an interview (first and second time alike) so it's worth putting in the time/effort to network for this.

The actual interviews are an equal playing field for all candidates in the recruiting process.

Hi there,

I once failed my McKinsey interviews and still got in later, which is the case for many MBB consultants. It's just that nobody ever talks about this and instead you read all these success stories where people got all 3x MBB offers first time around and had to decide which one to take… This is not reality!

Reality is that many people fail and try again and MBB actually appreciate the tenacity and will of candidates to improve and do better next time around - the operative word being ‘improve’ and you will have to demonstrate on your CV that you have actually made a leap forward.

In short, keep at it and don't give up if you really want it! Best of luck!

Moritz

Hi there,

The first thing that matters is how you did on that 1st interview. As in, were you close, or was it a very poor performance?

Regardless, if you were invited once you can absolutely be invited twice (I've had so many candidates in this situation and succeed). Make sure you add more to your professional profile + resume and network extensively to increase your odds.

To make sure you succeed in the next round of interviews, please read the following:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-shift-your-mindset-to-ace-the-case

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/pitfalls-case-interview-preparation

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/tell-me-about-yourself-interview-question

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about your experience!

This is indeed an interesting question which is probably relevant for a lot of users, thus I am happy to provide my perspective on it:

• It is difficult to say for sure whether failing interviews in the past will reduce your chances of getting another invite in the future. The decision to invite someone for an interview is typically based on a combination of factors, including their qualifications, experience, and fit for the role.
• If you failed interviews in the past, it is possible that the reasons for your failure could be seen as potential red flags by your target consulting company. For example, if you were unable to answer questions effectively or were not able to demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary for the role, this could raise concerns about your ability to perform well in the position.
• On the other hand, if you have taken steps to improve your skills and qualifications since your previous interviews, and can demonstrate your readiness and suitability for the role, this could increase your chances of being invited for another interview in the future. It is important to reflect on your previous interviews and identify areas where you can improve, in order to increase your chances of success in future job searches.

In case you want a more detailed discussion on what to do in your specific situation, please feel free to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hey there,

Yes, it does. You need to demonstrate significant progress in 1-2 out of 4 areas on your resume. See below for examples:

1. Academic performance (new degree, new university, new exchange term, significant GPA improvement)
2. Work experience (new ft role or internship with a reputable and relevant company, e.g., a tier-2 consultancy or a strategy role in a corporate)
3. Time spent abroad
4. Extracurricular activities

On top of that, I would always recommend networking and scoring 1-2 strong referrals before you apply as this is especially helpful if you apply for a 2nd time.

All the best!

Florian