Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Interview Partners to connect and practice with!
Back to overview

Do people at Blackstone usually refer candidates they’ve only met once?

I had a great coffee chat with an associate at Blackstone. It went well, but we’ve only spoken once. Do people there typically refer candidates they barely know, or is it better to build the relationship first?

2
< 100
5
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
Nitesh
Coach
on May 26, 2025
9+ yrs of work ex in finance/consulting - Barclays/ x-Citi. 500+ hrs coaching exp. MBA IIM Ahmedabad, Engg IIT Kharagpur

At a firm like Blackstone, referrals are taken seriously, so employees—especially associates—tend to be selective about who they refer. While one strong coffee chat can sometimes be enough, it’s more common for people to refer candidates they’ve built a bit more rapport with or whose backgrounds clearly align with what the firm is looking for. Referring someone is essentially vouching for them, and at a place with such a high bar, most employees won’t do that lightly unless they’re confident you’d reflect well on them.

That said, if your conversation went well, you showed strong understanding of the firm and role, and you made a good personal impression, you’re absolutely in the running. It’s okay to follow up with a thank-you note and mention that you’re very interested in opportunities at the firm—offering your resume and asking if they’d feel comfortable passing it along. If they’re open to it, great. If not, that’s fine too. In either case, it can be worthwhile to keep the relationship warm and stay on their radar for future opportunities.

Anonymous B
on May 26, 2025

Honestly, if it was just one conversation, that's a bit of a stretch. Blackstone referrals usually come from people who know you well or have worked with you. A good conversation is helpful, but most will only recommend you if they are confident that you will make a good impression on them. Try to keep in touch and build the relationship a little at first.

0
Similar Questions
Finance
How can I get a internship in investment banking with no experience?
on May 27, 2025
Global
7
4.3k
Top answer by
Natalie
Coach
Ex-Investment Banker | Former Deloitte & Grant Thornton | Coaching Finance Candidates to Ace Interviews & Land Top Roles
111
7 Answers
4.3k Views
+4
Finance
What to expect at Morgan Stanley coffee chat?!?
on May 26, 2025
Global
4
400+
Top answer by
Natalie
Coach
Ex-Investment Banker | Former Deloitte & Grant Thornton | Coaching Finance Candidates to Ace Interviews & Land Top Roles
9
4 Answers
400+ Views
+1
Finance
Feeling burned out before recruiting season even starts
on May 26, 2025
Global
3
400+
Top answer by
Simon
Coach
Mastering Deals and Strategy | Seasoned coach
19
3 Answers
400+ Views
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely
Thanks for your feedback! Your opinion helps us make PrepLounge even better.