What are acceptable versus non-acceptable justifications for very short-notice rescheduling of interviews (<1 week). How easy is rescheduling nowadays for MBB first-round interviews to a much later stage (preferably weeks after original date). Thanks!
I'd lead with honesty.
Most likely, if you don't feel prepared, you aren't prepared. And probably you have other things happening within the coming week that don't allow you to only dedicate the time to prep. Think of what is making things difficult for you at the moment to be the best version of yourself for the interview.
Then share those things with the recruiter via email and ask for a month.
And that's it. 80% likelihood of working.
100% likelihood of working is claiming you got sick, but if you're not sick, that's basically lying. Still, many people do it.
In any case, do not hesitate to postpone the interview if you are not ready. There's no reason to show up unprepared.
Best,
Cristian
HI there,
In my experience, the bar is high to shift interviews. They need to line up consulting staff to perform them, book rooms, prepare case interviews, etc so its quite a faff to move interviews.
That being said, it does happen. Medical situations, family emergencies, travel challenges etc can all get in the way of the best laid plans.
Cheers,
B.
Hey,
Just be frank and tell the HR you don't feel ready and need additional time to prepare. Phrase it in the following way: “Is there any chance we could transfer the interview to a later date? I understand it is quite inconvenient for you and the interviewer, but I truly believe I am not ready and need more time to prepare”.
The HR may try to persuade you to go through with the interview at a scheduled date (as they probably have their own KPIs and don't really care if you fail or succeed). Don't demand anything or confront the interviewer, just politely, but firmly stand your ground.
Good luck!
Nick
Hi there,
1) What are acceptable versus non-acceptable justifications for very short-notice rescheduling of interviews (<1 week).
In general, companies will try to accommodate if they can, regardless of the reasons (although asking, say, the day before would not be great).
You can call HR and ask if for personal reasons (assuming that's the case) it would be possible to postpone – no need to provide extra details if not requested. If they can, they will try to help. If they cannot, they will ask to make the effort to be present for that day.
2) How easy is rescheduling nowadays for MBB first-round interviews to a much later stage (preferably weeks after original date).
It is usually easier to reschedule earlier on, but I don’t think this matters in your case as it doesn’t seem you have the choice. If you have less than one week, you have to adapt to what you have.
Good luck!
Francesco
Hi there,
I go with most of my colleagues' answers and suggest you to be honest asking for a new date.
In any case, be ready to get a more than possible NO as an answer, specially if the interview was set weeks ago and you didn't organize your time well to be ready.
Best,
Alberto
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Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs
Please try to avoid this.
It's brash to say, but the truth is that you may never get the chance to interview again.
If you have to then ask. Of course, be honest.
I interviewed with the flu.
I was 7 out of 10 sick and flew from NYC to Boston to do my interviews with BCG.
I got the offer.
MBB doesn't work off of excuses. They work off of hard work, planning, dedication, etc.
Please be super careful if trying to reschedule and look for any other alternative for it (for example, bringing in an expert coach!)
Hi there,
Just ask and see if it is possible. No penalty or harm comes with asking!
Cheers,
Florian
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