I applied during my one-year MBA as a student to McKinsey and Bain. However, I wasn't invited for an interview. I am planning to reapply once I graduate (in September this year). Though there isn't a lot of difference in my profile (other than a summer internship) from the first time round, I am working on improving my CV and cover letter. Do you think this improvement could give me a chance with these firms or am I likely to be turned down again as I do not have a lot of new experience to add? (Essentially, I want to understand if the way of communicating achievements a huge differentiator than the actual achievements.)
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Likelihood of shortlisting in reapplication as an experienced hire after rejection as a target school candidate
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Hi,
You should definitely reapply. MBA selection process is very competitive and the chances are much lower if it is not Harvard or Stanford. Several recs:
- Choose another less competitive office - e.g. Texas
- Get a referral - more on the referral here - https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/what-is-a-referral-really-1103
Best!
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Hi,
There are four factors that may increase your chances:
1) Your competitor set - you may compete against "weaker" candidates this year
2) Your internship experience - you can try to do draw out more stories/skills you learned from this experience
3) Random choice - after all, when there are a good number of strong candidates, given the limited slots, they can only invite a small number of candidates. Thus this time, you may be called for an interview
4) Lastly, you can try to find a referral, which may increase your chances to be invited for an interview.
Best,
Deniz
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While I encourage you to apply like everyone else here, I would also suggest you be realistic in your expectations. I know that McKinsey requires a 2 year break in between applications and there is very little reason that you will be reconsidered unless you have done something significant in the meantime to make you a much stronger candidate
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Hi,
Yes - you should apply. A strong recommendation will go a LONG way in converting an interview, I would spend the next few weeks in securing that reference.
Thanks,
Nirmit
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Dear A,
I would definitely recommend you to reapply, but with referrals only.
Best,
André
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