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KPMG
New answer on Jan 10, 2024
4 Answers
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Anonymous A asked on Jan 09, 2024

Hello - needed help on two major things.

1) Am in hiring discussion for Data Analytics role with KPMG KSA since 2 months almost and due to Dec being holiday period, my partner interaction was pending and told to happen in Jan. Now when I followed up with HR, they are saying there is a ‘hiring freeze’ although partner round will happen for sure and if position is critical then hiring freeze can be an exception to it. 
That said, where does this puts me now? Am in limbo since 1) waiting for partner round to happen, 2) now hiring freeze further adds coldness to my hiring process with KPMG.

2) I've tried to diversify my risk and contacted handful of partners over LinkedIn across Big-4 seeking help wrt opportunities full time in their respective org. None of them have replied so far, not sure how do I formalise hiring in such big-4s?

(edited)

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Florian
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 replied on Jan 09, 2024
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets

Hey there,

That is a tricky situation!

The hiring freeze combined with the delay in your partner round interview places you in an uncertain position. There are a few positive takeaways:

  • The fact that the partner round is still scheduled to happen is a good sign. It indicates that your application is still being actively considered.
  • The mention of exceptions to the hiring freeze for critical positions could work in your favor if the role you applied for is deemed essential. What role did you apply for exactly?

However, I would not count on that too much as if they really would want to hire you, they would already move ahead with the interviews now…

Hence, it makes sense that you started reaching out to other firms: Your initiative to contact partners at other Big 4 firms is a smart move to diversify your search. However, the lack of responses can be frustrating. Here's what you might consider:

  • Try to get a discussion with someone below the partner tier. Partners at such firms often have busy schedules and may not always check LinkedIn messages regularly.
  • Think if you have any contacts or connections who can introduce you to these partners or also someone at lower ranks; it could be more effective.
  • Attend virtual recruiting events and talks if there are any.
  • Widen your net outside of Big4. You could look at MBB, tier-2 firms, boutiques, etc.

I would not fully discount the KPMG opportunity just yet, but makes sense to network strategically and generate new opportunities as well.

Cheers,

Florian

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Anonymous A on Jan 09, 2024

It’s for data analytics and governance role
Ian
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 replied on Jan 10, 2024
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

Unfortunately you can't really bank on this. You need to make sure that you're continuing to apply to and interview with other firms (should be done regardless). Definitely don't depend on this one coming through.

Ultimately, it seems they like you and would like to find a way to keep interviewing you. This is not in your hands but rather in theirs.

Keep networking, keep applying, keep case prepping. Timing is as much a factor as anything with recruiting!

Here's some reading to help you on the above:

How to Get a Consulting Internship - Tips and Tricks
 

Application Tracker – Keep Track With This Free Template
 

The Most Common Pitfalls in Case Interview Preparation

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Cristian
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Content Creator
 replied on Jan 10, 2024
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach

Hi there!

Sorry to hear about all this. Sounds like you were affected by the hiring freeze just like many other candidates.

The only thing that you can do is play the long game and diversify your risk. 

So with point 1) I would recommend that you stay in touch with them, follow-up every month or so to understand whether they are now ready to continue the interview process.

In the meantime, do try to send out other applications. Here's an article that explains how to build a diversified application strategy:


Aside from this, on networking on how to arrange for chats with consultants, these two resources might be helpful:


Good luck!
Cristian

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Francesco
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 replied on Jan 10, 2024
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

1) That said, where does this puts me now? 

Unfortunately, you don’t have direct control over this. The only thing you can do to try to speed up things is to get another offer and leverage it to accelerate the current process.

2) None of them have replied so far, not sure how do I formalise hiring in such big-4s?

Depending on the number of contacts you reached out to, there might be something wrong with your message. You can find some tips for networking below:

▶ The Exact Steps to Get a Referral

Good luck!

Francesco

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