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How long does it take after final rounds to receive an offer? (Big 4 firm)

Hey all,

I recently finished the final round with a Big 4 firm and felt good about all of my interviews. I have now been waiting about 3 days, and have read online they generally extend offers within a few days. I am starting to worry I may not receive an offer, is this just a bad thought-loop, or does time generally correlate with offer/rejection? The recruiter told me to expect a response within 2 weeks and keep her updated on competing offers.

TIA. 

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Top answer
Hagen
Coach
edited on Nov 09, 2023
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on passing the application process with the firm!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

  • First of all, the waiting period can indeed be nerve-wracking, but it's important to remember that the timeframe for receiving an offer can vary widely. While some candidates may hear back within a few days, others might wait longer.
  • Moreover, the fact that the recruiter has given you a two-week window suggests that they are taking the necessary time to make a considered decision. This timeline does not necessarily indicate a negative outcome.
  • Lastly, I would advise you to use this time to perhaps pursue other opportunities in parallel. This will ensure that you are not placing all your hopes on one outcome and are keeping your options open.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Nikita
Coach
on Nov 14, 2023
MBB & Tier2 preparation | 100+ offers | 8 years coaching | 3000+ sessions

Hi,

It depends on how quickly the interviewers can meet do discuss your interview results, their staffing needs and your actual interview performance. 

For example, if you performed really well, your profile is relevant and you have another offer on hand, they'll try to be as quick as possible to reach out to you with an offer.

On the other hand, if your performance wasn't stellar, your profile is not a perfect match for their practice and their current staffing needs are low, they'll probably delay getting back to you or can even shelve the decision until a later date in the future.

Can be days, weeks, or even months in some cases.

Regards,
Nick

Udayan
Coach
on Nov 09, 2023
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /12 years recruiting experience

It can sometimes take weeks and sometimes same day. There really is no standard answer to this question so unfortunately it means being patient till there is more clarity.

on Nov 11, 2023
#1 rated McKinsey Coach

Hi Tia!

Honestly, there's no set time.

It really varies by office, region, time in the year, firm, recruiter, etc. 

Generally, anywhere from 1 day to 3 weeks is when 80-90% of people hear back. Anything outside of this is rather an anomaly. 

Hope you hear back soon!

Good luck!
Cristian

Alberto
Coach
on Nov 12, 2023
Ex-McKinsey AP | +13 yrs hiring top talent | I help you think, speak & perform like a real consultant (95% success)

Hi there,

Wait the 2 weeks mentioned by your recruiting contact and follow up after that time if you haven't heard anything from them.

There is nothing you can do in the meanwhile apart from preparing a broader application strategy in case you finally don't get the offer.

Best,

Alberto

Ian
Coach
on Nov 10, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

Could be same day call…or it could be a month!

Always hope for the best plan for the worst.

3 days is no cause for concern. 

But, as always, never stop recruiting until you have a signed offer in hand! 

on Nov 10, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: How long does it take after final rounds to receive an offer? (Big 4 firm)

In most cases offers are extended within a few days, but in other cases it takes longer.

Given that they mentioned 2 weeks as the time for an answer, I would recommend waiting until then and then following up with HR if you don't get a reply.

Good luck!

Francesco

on Nov 09, 2023
ex A. Partner McKinsey |Senior Interviewer| Real Feedback & Free Homework between sessions|Harvard Coach|10+ Experience

Indeed 2 weeks in big 4 are not uncommon. Just sit tight you did all you could :) Fingers crossed, Frederic 

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