Request from MBB

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about the rejections!

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

• First of all, treat the dinner for what it is - a friendly exchange of knowledge - and show genuine curiosity about the consultant's work and experiences.
• Moreover, you may subtly mention your interest in reapplying next year, emphasizing your motivation and willingness to grow.

You can find more on this topic here: How to deal with a rejection from a consulting company.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there, 

I'm sorry to hear that it didn't work out. Don't give up just yet. Persistence pays off when you're pursuing a selective job like a role at MBB. 

This sounds like an excellent opportunity to strengthen your connections to the firm. Here is how I would approach it: 

1. Show your willingness to help. Set up a time to meet and share your expertise in your field. Whether it's dinner or coffee, meeting in person is a great way to build stronger relationships (if you're comfortable with it).
2. Prepare ahead of time. Get an overview of the problem and key questions this person wants to address so you can show up with structured thoughts on the topics they wish to explore.
3. Don't make it seem like a quid pro quo. If you invest in them, they will invest in you. There is no need to make it evident that you're helping hoping to get their help for reapplication. At the same time, find an opportunity to reiterate your interest in working for their firm.
4. Watch out for confidentiality. Don't ask about too many specifics, so you don't put your contact in a tricky position by sharing confidential information by accident (and you don't come across as insensitive to the firm's commitment to client confidentiality). 

Good luck with the networking! I'd happily work with you on application materials and interview prep if you want to connect before reapplying. 

Hey there,

It looks like a great networking opportunity to build a connection in future that could be a potential referral! 

I'd go in and be as helpful as possible and try showcase the depth of my expertise. Make the interaction a pleasurable two-way dialogue where you are able to help the consultant, but also try get some guidance and advice from the consultant on how you can break into MBB

Always remain professional and courteous throughout your interaction

Hi,

If they are interested in your expertise it means that very likely they already have a positive impression of you. At this point, the best thing to do is to meet the person and share your expertise in the field and showcase your knowledge. At the end of the meeting I would ask them for their advice on what you can do to be successful for the next time you apply. Then work on those points and stay in touch with them while you do so - by both updating your progress and offering to help with any other questions they have. This helps build a relationship that will encourage them to support your application if/when you choose to re-apply.

Best,

Udayan

It's positive that you build connections with people at the target firm. Of course, be careful with confidentiality issues (in hurts you in your current role, and hurts your chances of getting an offer for the MBB).

Hi there,

I was exactly in the same position 11 years ago. Met with a McK EM in Hong Kong after failing internship applications the year before.

I helped him out with a specific task and he helped me with a referral for full-time recruiting - was a very organic process and I never asked for it. Consultants are usually asked to refer potential candidates so if you have a good connection, it should also come up naturally.

Fingers crossed and all the best,

Florian