Reaching out after failing first round

Question

Hi everyone,

I previously went through first-round interview with McKinsey. The HR of the office previously mention that I can re-apply after 12-months. I'd like to reach out to the consultants of that office to talk and try to get a referral. I would like to get some advice on this.

One of my interviewer and the mock case coach that were assigned to me were from the same office. My question is:
1. Is it better for me to reach out to them to talk or is it better to reach out to the other consultants. It is a relatively small office in SEA, so everyone knows each other.
2. If I talk to the other consultants, do I need to let them know that I went through the process last year?

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hey there,

1. Reach out to the consultants you have the most connection with through shared experiences (same university, same previous employer, same city, same clubs, etc.). If you have something in common it will be easier to connect and establish some sort of relationship.

2. I would not hide it but also not actively promote it. If you discuss the topic, of course, you should mention it.

Fingers crossed for your application! Keep in mind that many McKinseys got in on their second try.

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 2

Hi there,

I would personally look for an alumnus of your school, unless you had an excellent connection with one of the previous consultants you talked to. A referral could be useful as there are no guarantees that they will invite you again. I know cases where they mentioned to apply again in 12 months and then rejected the candidate. A referral will decrease the likelihood of that scenario
Yes, you should let them know. In terms of the interview, you should also have a good answer on how you improved in the last year

Best,

Francesco

Answer 3

If you already went through the interview process before, I personally wouldn't worry too much about getting a referral. Instead, assuming you had a decent interview and connected well with your interviewer, I would focus on reconnecting with them so that you have their support. They have the best sense of your fit and interview performance where they can give you tailored advice.

Good luck!

Answer 4

Hi there,

Good on your for not getting disheartened!

Now, I would note, if you're re-applying, make sure you've actually changed as a candidate here. This is twofold.

First, you need to have demonstrated progress over the past 12 months (did you get another degree, work another job, launch a startup, etc.). Second, you need to be sure your casing is a lot better. If you didn't even pass the 1st round, this is a sign that you were not even close to being sufficiently prepared - get a coach to make sure you get it right this time.

Now, in terms of your questions:

1) Both. Cast your net wide! And, moreover, you don't need to keep it just to SEA. Network with other offices...a referral is a referral!

2) Gauge the conversation. Certainly don't hide it if they ask. If they don't ask, evaluate whether they're the type that would change their opinion of you if you mentioned it, or would appreciate the honesty. Case by case basis here!

Good luck and reach out if you need any support in this journey!

Answer 5

Hi, I agree to mention it in the chat. I would look on LinkedIn for alumni of your university or your firms

Best,
Antonello

Answer 6

Great job taking the initiative to reach out. I would say certainly do but try doing so via back-channels either via alum or Linkedin connections