In these uncertain times, until you sign the offer and join the firm, don't take anything for granted. Continue to project yourself as a candidate who is promising and the one that the firm wants to hire.
What has happened in your case has not happened first time, neither it is the last time. When firms themseves come under extreme financial pressure, they need to be extra cautious and sometimes need to take tough calls. During dot com bubble burst, during financial crisis several consulting companies faced difficulties and had to act tough on recruitment side.
What you need to think about is what is in your hand at this point of time? I am only talking about your current MBB candidature. Don't want to talk about you staying strong, continue applying to other firms, don't quit your current job etc. I know you will do those things.
At this point of time, you have few stakeholders who are inside the system, who can contribute to the pitch to hire you. Be in touch with them and showcase your interest, eagerness and openness.
Some of the conversations that you might want to have are:
- Call with the recruitment manager to uderstand the situation and process thoroughly. Understand what exactly is the process, who takes the final call, what are the different results possible in your case, has there been any precedence of case like this one.
- Call with someone who has referred you/ someone senior that you know in the firm. Explain him the situation and take his advice. Ask him if you can do anything from your side to increase the strength of your candidature. Ask him if there are any possibilities (if you are open to them) that you should talk about with hiring partner )e.g. Joining at a grade below, joining in different team etc. If yes, then what is the good time to have that discussion with the hiring partner
- Call with the hiring partner. I think one call with the hiring partner before the 'decision meeting' happens is a must. You need to explain him your situation and openly discuss the possibilities you are open for, off course stressing the point that you are interested, eager to contribute. Give him everything that he needs to pitch you as strongly as possible.
This is how I would handle the situation.
Having said that, I can imagine what you must be going through. After having cracked the interview process, an uncertainty about job offer must be making you anxious. However, do take this situation as your first consulting project, think in a structured way and take an action. I am sure you will do good.
All the best!
GB