For Bain specifically: I'm trying to essentially decide how much it matters, in terms of providing any sort of advantage -- in initial screening, or otherwise -- if you apply in the same office/city as your friend who referred you works in (and his friend you chatted with that liked you) -- vs. applying in city #2 where you really want to be located a few hours away in the same state (family moving here as well)
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Hi there,
in short, if your CV is very strong, i.e. meets all the screening criteria, you'll be fine either way - would go for office of choice.
That said, referrals definitely help, be it for you desired office or 2nd choice. Note though the referral will have more weight, if your friend knows the HR in person.
Finally, one option can be that when you interview successfully (and only then) for an office in same country / state, you ask them to transfer the offer to the other office. Consulting firms are often organized in regional systems, and as long as within, they won't mind moving it. Feel free to PM if you'd like a very specific view on this particular matter.
Hi there, hope this finds you well.
Bain specific answer: if your key objective is to join consulting/Bain, stick to the office where you have been referred to, just to maximize your chances. And that for 2 reasons:
1) There is a chance both offices (referral office / office you really want) are inside the same staffing pool, meaning that you actually can live in either of the 2 cities - especially if they are not far from each other as you mentioned (Bain specific)
2) Toughest part is to get in, once you are there you can discuss mobility more easily
Having said that, it is hard to give a precise - it depends on several factors that are not under your control. And that's why I would apply to where you seem to have higher chances.
Hi there,
Referrals do help make sure your CV will be checked, but all candidates are treated equally, hence I would apply for a position you like most. Still your friend can refer you also in the other city within the same company.
I wish you all the best,
Lucie
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Hi there,
Ultimately this is a numbers game with the numbers hidden.
If your #1 goal is maximizing your odds, you should apply in the office where you have networked. If you'd be miserable there and really ultimately want office #2, then you should apply there!
A referral is ultimately incredibly helpful no matter where it's from. Additionally, given it's in a nearby office and in the same country, this is an added bonus.
You do improve your odds by applying to city #1, but you've already drastically improved your odds just by getting a referral!
You should be fine. Once you have an intro call with HR explain the situation to them and they will recommend the best way to go about it.
Hi there,
You may have an advantage if the person refers you to the same office where they work – simply because your friend could directly talk with HR.
Having said that, a referral is still going to be useful for any office. In the end, it depends on how important it would be for you to be in your favourite office.
Best,
Francesco
A referral for the same office you're applying may be given a bit more weight. But unless you really feel you are on the fence with your resume, I would suggest you go for your priority office - the referral will still be valued.
Hello!
If your CV is strong, you will pass the screening either way.
Then, at the end of the process, with the offer in hand, and if the offices are only hours away, you can negotiate (particularly if there is family involved, as your case)
Hope it helps!
Cheers,
C
