Networked with HR and got asked to reapply

Question

Hi all,

I'm one of the reapplicants to one of the MBBs. Last year, I actually reached out to the very first HR who interviewed me years ago, and was redirected to other HRs for further informal Zoom calls (around 3), just to sort of like understand my motivation to reapply to the firm.

I was asked to submit my CV informally for the leadership team's review, and was asked to reapply via the portal. In this case, is it okay if I apply without a referral? Since I networked directly with the recruitment team, and the back-and-forth networking session has been ongoing for ~1 year.

Thanks!

Answer 1

If the recruiting team has already flagged your resume to office leadership and has directly encouraged you to reapply, I wouldn’t worry about a referral.

What is crucial is that you start preparing for fit and case interviews right away, so you’re ready to crush it when give the chance.

Well done on the networking. I’m wishing you the best of luck in landing an interview.

Let me know if I can help in any way!

Answer 2

Hi there,

Given your constant interaction and them asking you to re-apply, there is no need for a referral to complicate the process. :-)

All the best,

Florian

Answer 3

Hi there,

Q: Is it okay if I apply without a referral?

A referral is going to increase your chances of getting an interview. This means you could get an invitation if you apply without a referral, but your chances will be higher if you have one.

For this reason, if you have the time and opportunity, I would recommend looking for a referral - HR cannot refer you although your networking activities with them might lead to a positive impact.

You can find more on networking and referrals below:

▶ How to Get an MBB Invitation

Good luck!

Francesco

Answer 4

Hey there,

It looks like you are already known by the recruiting team. If they are going to be the same individuals to screen your CV, then a referral may not have the impact it otherwise would have. However, if your application is going to be screened by another set of HR and recruiting individuals, it may be good to have the power of a referral behind your application

All the best