Likelihood of interviews being canceled

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:

• The likelihood of recruiting processes being postponed due to the current economic situation cannot be determined with certainty. However, strategy consulting companies have a tendency to continue with their recruiting processes, albeit at a slower pace, as they understand the importance of maintaining a strong talent pipeline.
• Moreover, it is unlikely for strategy consulting companies to cancel a specific interview round, as this would be a waste of resources for both the company and the candidate. Instead, it is more likely that applicants will be informed of their rejection directly, rather than undergoing an interview process only to be turned down later. This approach is more respectful to the candidate and more practical for the company.

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

Hi there,

If an interview is scheduled it is unlikely to be cancelled.

Interviews that are not yet scheduled might be delayed, or fewer might be offered.

You also have to remember three things:

1) Consulting is non-cyclical (the main period that is “dangerous” is in the transition of a cycle)

2) There is always churn and consultants that have to be replaced. Even without growth, hiring has to happen!

3) You can't control this. You can only control you. Be the best you can be (best resume, best networking, best interviewing). Focus on the thing that can actually change your fate.

Hi there,

Q: Hello, given the economic situation right now, is it very likely that interviews will be withdrawn? Thanks!

I coached a few candidates who had their interviews postponed. None of the candidates I coached in the last months had their interviews canceled after being scheduled. 

I guess this might also depend on the firm - the more established the firm, the less likely they will cancel a scheduled interview as it would reflect badly on the company. It is also more reasonable for them to postpone to avoid losing talent.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hello,

This will depend on office/geography. 

I can speak for SEA - the people I know so far that are going through the process have not had their interviews cancelled. 

For a fact, the # of interviews being extended in the first place by the firms are less. By this time most of the Tier 1 firms would have their headcount planning/budgeting done for the year.

Hope this helps!

Hi there,

This depends on a couple of factors:

• Region
• Supply and demand
• Specificity of role
• Your profile
• etc.

I had 4 clients recently across different firms and geographies, who had their MBB interviews canceled/postponed until further notice.

Fingers crossed!

Florian

I have heard about it happening, however, this usually is poor form and reflects badly on a firm. So this is therefore not a strategy any firm would intentionally choose to pursue. If it does happen, it is most likely because of sudden economic changes within their business outlook.

I would say the more likely situation is that more applications are getting rejected at the CV stage already so that less candidates even reach the interview rounds.

Hello A,

I can only talk for the Middle East, and no interviews have been postponed or canceled there. 

I am very interested to see what people who work in other regions have to say. 
 

Best,

Victoria 

I wouldn't say “it is very likely”, but that it is happening in some offices. Meaning that recruiting has not stopped, but is slowing down, and in some specific regions/offices interviews are being postponed.

Very difficult to accurately say anything…but if they got their hiring plan right they wont issue interview invites out anyway if it doesnt line up.