Hi there,

it seems like your networking efforts are being fruitful which is a positive takeaway. 

The Bain partner will not be able to do anything for you anymore in terms of this cycle's application at the firm since you already got formally rejected. So you can just view this as a networking opportunity that might be useful down the line. 

For the McKinsey one I'm not entirely sure. It sounds like as if you have already submitted your written application to McK and you have also already taken their online test (but you don't have the results yet). So if the test comes back as a “negative”, you will have the same situation as with Bain. If the test comes back “positive”, you will likely make it to the first round interview (assuming your CV is strong enough) - so a partner referral would only increase your chances of making it to the interview stage too, but nothing more. It is always best to secure a referral before submitting your application because otherwise the likelihood is high that it won't be considered. 

I think you should be open with these partners about the fact that you have already applied - because they would find out anyway if push came to shove. So the most useful approach is probably for you to probe them on what they think makes successful candidates that they are looking for for their teams. At least you can then tailor your applications to that going forward. 

Even if MBB won't work out for you this time around, there are still Tier 2 firms out there that can serve as a stepping stone to MBB going forward - or you just build your consulting career there if you end up liking it.

Best of luck

(edited)

Hi Steph,

1) What should I be aiming for to speak about with these partners to maximise my chance of getting a referral or an interview for a role?

I would recommend to structure the call as follows:

• Your own pitch. A few lines should be enough to introduce yourself.
• 3-4 questions on the personal experiences of the person. Avoid asking questions only about the company.
• A closing question for the referral (although not for Bain now - see point #2 below). It should be an indirect request to avoid being too pushy

Before the call, I would recommend having your CV and cover letter ready – in this way, you can send them right away if the person wants to refer you.

2) Have I royally screwed it by being rejected from Bain & Co before my meeting with the partner? 

If you have already been rejected, it is extremely unlikely that the partner can do anything about it. I would be transparent about the rejection, as the partner will probably find out anyway. Most likely, the best use of the call is to create a connection and reach out for the next application.

Best,

Francesco

Hey Steph!

Look, the honest answer is you should have networked before you applied.

View this as a learning lesson.

Importantly, remember that time/life goes on. 12 months passes by quickly. I've seen people get into MBB after their 3rd attempt/year - it's not this year or nothing!

For the call itself, show that you're knowledgeable + interested. Put your best foot forward. Ask good/strong questions and be prepared to talk about yourself. In the future, consider getting a coach to avoid these pitfalls and, of course, learn how to navigate these types of calls (a Q&A doesn't quite do it justice).

And, in the meantime, apply to lots of other firms!

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Hi Steph,

Q: What should I be aiming for to speak about with these partners to maximise my chance of getting a referral or an interview for a role?

You have been already rejected at Bain so no one can help you here. You can use this meeting to get a referrals when the ban period expires.

For the McKinsey meeting, this is quite similar since referrals is not very useful once you have already started the recruiting process. In any case, a McKinsey connection in your network is always worth it so nurture it :)

Best,

Alberto

—

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

Hey Steph,

You should have networked before you applied. Not sure if the partners can do anything about it now. In any case, I suggest you establish an initial connection with them so that they may refer you when you reapply.

Also, please, never consider such a low-probability event as getting into MBB as your only or the last hope. Keep networking and applying to other firms (Tier2 / Tier 3 / In-house & boutique consultancies).

Good luck!
Nick

I'll add that at this point you should strongly consider applying to other firms as well (but do your networking first, and quicky!)