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Strategy& Middle east Decision timeline

Had an interview with strategy& middle east. Painfully slow, but got 4 interviews covered with 2 rounds of 2 interviews each. 

Interview with senior most partner in final went extremely well, while the other partner was fine (I think I cracked the case and he did mention “Good” at the end and mentioned “we will talk”)

Has been 2.5 weeks since then and nothing on feedback or next steps. Is this how long they take? I come from US and have interviewed here; never saw consulting process being so painful.

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Top answer
on Jul 13, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: Has been 2.5 weeks since then and nothing on feedback or next steps. Is this how long they take?

Some companies in the Middle East tend to be slower than in other countries. Having said that, 2.5 weeks is quite some time to hear back after a final round.

I would recommend calling HR to ask for an update – there is no penalty for doing so.

Good luck!

Francesco

Ian
Coach
on Jul 12, 2023
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

Look, the honest answer is that the longer they take to get back to you, the worse odds. There are three major scenarios here:

  • They don't have their _____ together - regardless of whethey they want you or not, the partners haven't met yet, or HR hasn't gotten the contract/email written yet, etc.
  • They're trying to figure out their pipeline/need for hiring
  • They're waiting on other candidates (to finish interviewing or to accept their offer)

Since it has been 2.5 weeks you should feel free to reach out for an update.

Fingers crossed!

on Jul 12, 2023
Thanks....I wrote to the recruiter.....do you think it's a good idea to ask one of the interviewing partners.....one of them got back to my tha KS you note and mentioned how amazing the discussion was
Andi
Coach
on Jul 12, 2023
BCG 1st & Final Round interviewer | Personalized prep with >95% success rate | 7yrs coaching | Experienced Hires

Hi there,

would not intepret too much into it - the reality about S& (and some other consulting firms) in the ME is that they often take their time, especially in the current hiring environement where firms largely focus on 2024 hiring - 2.5 weeks is noting unusual, in my experience.

Suggest you wait until EOW and then follow up politely with the recruiter / responsible HR.

Hope this helps. 

Regards, Andi

Hagen
Coach
edited on Jul 13, 2023
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | 8+ years consulting, 8+ years coaching and 7+ years interviewing experience

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the progress in the application process with Strategy& Middle East thus far!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

  • First of all, it's important to note that the timeline for feedback varies greatly across firms and regions. The Middle East consulting market may operate on a different timeline compared to the US.
  • Moreover, the phrase "we will talk", depending on the context, could be a positive sign indicating future discussions or it could simply mean that they would provide you with updates or feedback.
  • Lastly, I would advise you to reach out to the recruiter of Strategy& Middle East if you haven't done so already. This could provide you with clarity and possibly expedite the process. In your communication, remember to remain professional and express your continued interest in the role.

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

Deleted user
on Jul 22, 2023

Hello,

What stage was this? I would wait another week or so, and then reach out to HR to ask about the status of your application if you still haven't heard.

9
on Jul 12, 2023
#1 rated McKinsey Coach

Hi there, 

Oh, sorry to hear - that's long indeed. Way above the average.

I'd recommend you reach out to them by now. Don't assume the worst. Just check in and see if they have an update.

Hope you hear good things!
Best,
Cristian

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