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How to ask MBB recruiter to prolong the interview for several months?

Hi to all, 

I am now in process of applying to applying to all of the MBB, and got an invitation to the interview from one of them. However I feel I need to prepare more for the interview. How can I approach HR about it? How do they see if candidate comes to them with such a request? 

Thanks for the reply

6 Answers
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Top answer
Ian
Coach
on Feb 01, 2024
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

You can simply say that!

Explain that you would like more time to put your best forward. Check with them that this is ok AND tell them you're happy to proceed and make it work if they cannot move the date.

And please learn your lesson: DONT apply BEFORE you're 80% case ready…otherwise your application might be wasted!

Now, to get case ready quickly, consider hiring a coach!

And, read the following as a jump start:

The Most Common Pitfalls in Case Interview Preparation
 

Dos and Don'ts in a Case Interview

How to Shift Your Mindset to Ace the Case
 

Candidate-Led Cases: What to Expect With Example Cases

Alberto
Coach
on Jan 31, 2024
Ex-McKinsey Partner | Most experienced coach (15 years exp, +2.000 real interviews) | 95% success rate

Hi there,

How much time do you have before this first interview? Let us know to help you craft a back up plan in case you cannot reschedule the interview.

Best,

Alberto

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

on Jan 31, 2024
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach

Hi there!

This happens all the time so I wouldn't overthink it. 

I would be totally transparent with them. Tell them that you are very keen on the opportunity, but you are going through a difficult time professionally (and/or personally), which is not allowing you sufficient time to prepare until the interview date they suggested. Then suggest the amount of time you actually need. 

The earlier you do it, the better.

Best,
Cristian

Hagen
Coach
on Feb 01, 2024
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | most experience in consulting, interviewing, and coaching

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the invitation!

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

  • First of all, it is quite common for candidates to request a postponement, whether for preparation or any other reasons.
  • Moreover, when approaching the recruiter with such a request, ensure that you communicate professionally and provide a reasonable timeframe for when you believe you will be able to conduct the interviews. Emphasize your commitment to the process and your desire to perform at your best.
  • Lastly, I would advise you to be flexible and understanding of the firm's scheduling needs. It is important to strike a balance between your preparation needs and the firm’s recruitment timelines.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Udayan
Coach
on Jan 31, 2024
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /12 years recruiting experience

In this market you will have no issues asking for a later interview as the demand for consulting is not so hot right now. Just be honest and say you need time to prepare and you had previously underestimated that. 

Pedro
Coach
on Mar 05, 2024
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Private Equity | Market Estimates | Fit Interview

They are usually ok with that. But I would recommend that you start practicing now, so that when you apply to the other firms you are already prepared.

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