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How to use a referral?

I asked for a referral and they have agreed to provide one. However, I'm still unclear on the next steps if the recruiter will reach out or do I still have to apply. I have asked them for clarity. What should I do just to be prepared as the firm that I am applying to is hiring these days and I don't want to be late in submitting the application? 

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Top answer
Hagen
Coach
edited on Jan 26, 2023
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

  • Depending on the company and region, there might or might not be specific referral systems in place through which you will need to apply. I would advise you to reach out to the person providing the referral and ask for clarification on the process and any specific instructions for using the referral.
  • Additionally, it's important to check if the application deadlines also apply to applicants with a referral or if there are different deadlines for referral applicants. This may help you to better plan and prepare your application.

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

Best,

Hagen

Florian
Coach
on Jan 26, 2023
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 600+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

This depends on the firm and the office.

  • You might get a link from HR to apply
  • You might have to send your application automatically (and the referral is tagged in the system already)
  • You might go the informal route and can directly send your documents to HR (very rare these days due to data protection laws)

Ask your contact in the firm how to proceed.

Cheers,

Florian

on Jan 26, 2023
#1 rated McKinsey Coach

Hi there, 

There's no set way. It depends on the firm and the office. 

So indeed do try to clarify this with whoever is providing you with the referral because they'll know what is relevant for your target office. 

Sharing HERE an article about how to use these networking opportunities in order to get a referral. You might find it useful when networking with other firms. 

Best,

Cristian

Ian
Coach
on Jan 26, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

Always have your resume ready at 100%. Make sure you're ready to give them the resume (or apply) the moment they ask.

Ultimately they will tell you what to do (either send them it or you submit through an online link)

Dennis
Coach
on Jan 26, 2023
Roland Berger|Project Manager and Recruiter|7+ years of consulting experience in USA and Europe

Hi there,

you should clarify with the person referring you as to what they need or have done already. In general, you should have your CV and cover letter ready for action anytime you ask someone for a referral. 

Good luck

Pedro
Coach
on Jan 26, 2023
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

That depends on the firm. Some are more structured than other… can you share what is the name of the firm?

Moritz
Coach
on Jan 28, 2023
ex-McKinsey EM & Interviewer | 7/8 offer rate for 4+ sessions | High impact sessions + FREE materials & exercises

Hi there,

Which firm is this? In most firms, the referral process is a formal internal process, whereby your referee submits the application on your behalf to HR with a few notes about you i.e., the candidate. Hence, make sure you provide your contact with your latest CV, cover letter, and other details if needed e.g., office preference.

Your next step is checking with your referee whether this is how it works in said firm and whether he/she will go ahead with the process internally. Do not apply yourself before having this clarification.

Best of luck!

Moritz

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