How to Get a Referral for a Consulting Application (McKinsey, BCG, Bain)

Last Updated on March 25, 2024

Securing a consulting referral is a crucial step in your application journey with McKinsey, BCG, and Bain (MBB). Candidates, who are referred are usually on top of the pile for recruiters and have a higher chance to make it to the next stage of the application process, such as the aptitude tests, or case interviews.

In this article, we answer the following questions:

• Should you get a referral before you apply?
• How can you actually get a referral for a McKinsey application, as well as for BCG and Bain, or any other firm?
• What does the ideal referral look like?
• How do referrals work?

Should You Get a Referral Before Applying?

The answer is yes. In general, incorporating a referral into your MBB application strategy is better than not having one (stating the obvious). This is especially relevant for candidates with a resume that does not meet 100% of the requirements set out by MBB. In such cases, a targeted referral from a senior leader in the organization such as a partner or even a senior partner can make the difference. It adds a layer of trust and credibility to the application that can guarantee you a fair and thorough screening at the very least and push your application above the threshold at the very best. For instance, a partner referral in McKinsey is worth a lot (see below for your strategy to get one).

Additionally, with the introduction of remote consulting aptitude tests such as the McKinsey Solve Game, the BCG Online Case, or the Bain SOVA, the top-tier consulting firms have started to widen the funnel a bit to get more people into the process since they can administer the tests at no additional cost. As the candidate pool continues to grow, pursuing every advantage to stand out from the crowd is worthwhile.

However, if your profile is already strong and are applying early in the year or recruiting season, when fewer slots are filled, you might fare well even without a referral. The decision to seek a referral should also consider your timeline for case interview preparation. If you have weeks before applying, it’s beneficial to seek a referral. But if you’re pressed for time and need to apply soon, prioritizing the application over obtaining a referral may be advisable.

How Can You Get a Referral at McKinsey, BCG, or Bain?

Now, how can you get a McKinsey referral, BCG referral, or Bain referral? Your goal should be to build a list of referrals from several people across your different target firms.

First of all, let’s answer where you can get them.

Where to Get a Consulting Referral

We discuss this point in greater detail in our article about networking with consulting firms. In general, there are three ways to link with consulting firms and their employees:

1. Participation in events

Attend recruiting events and talk to the consultants. Get an impression of the firm and the people and leverage the contacts you have made for a referral afterward.

2. Networking with consultants and alumni

Tap into your network, utilizing effective networking for application strategies. Chances are some of your peers are working for your target firm. If not, use Linkedin and other platforms to reach out to consultants of your desired employer. You have a better chance when reaching out to people with a common background (alumni of your school, same hometown, same previous employer, same clubs, etc.) or when going through a common connection who is introducing you.

3. Mentorship program

Firms such as McKinsey and BCG have talent programs for high-potentials to mentor them during their studies. Being part of these programs is a referral in itself and an invitation to the interviews is almost guaranteed. However, getting into one of those is not easy either (we discuss this in more detail in our networking article linked above).

How to Secure an MBB Referral

Securing referrals for consulting positions at top firms like McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and Bain & Company involves a two-pronged strategy: identifying sources for referrals and then effectively securing them. Below is a detailed guide to navigate this process:

1. Build meaningful relationships

The foundation lies in establishing strong connections with consultants. This can be achieved through various avenues: attending industry events, connecting over shared experiences like an alma mater, past employers, or even hometown roots. These commonalities can be powerful starting points for building rapport. This can help you, for instance, to secure a BCG consulting referral.

2. Leave a positive impression

Make every interaction count. Whether it’s a memorable conversation at a networking event or showcasing your analytical skills in a case challenge, aim to leave a lasting positive impression on the consultants you meet.

3. Be prepared for HR feedback

Post-event, HR often seeks consultants’ feedback on candidates. Positive remarks from your interactions could lead to a proactive call from HR, encouraging your application. This is an opportune moment to request guidance or a referral from the consultant who contacts you.

4. Tailor your approach

In personal interactions, focus on the relationship rather than just your achievements. Random LinkedIn messages to partners are less effective. Instead, personalize your outreach by expressing genuine interest in their career path and seeking advice on the application and preparation process.

5. Cold outreach readiness

When reaching out to consultants without prior contact, be ready to promptly provide your resume or answer questions. A well-prepared introduction and clear communication can make a significant difference in these cold interactions.

6. Let referrals happen organically

Consultants are often on the lookout for talented candidates, encouraged by HR. If they’re impressed with your qualifications and interactions, they might offer a referral without direct solicitation. It’s important to note that in most MBB offices, consultants don’t receive financial bonuses for successful hires, so maintain a respectful and appreciative tone in all communications and do not push them for a referral.

What Is the Ideal Referral?

The More the Merrier

The formula is straightforward: the more diverse and senior your referrals are, the better your chances of progressing to the interviews or aptitude test stage of the application.

Having two referrals, especially for your McKinsey, BCG, or Bain application, is highly beneficial. The more frequently your name is mentioned to HR, the more interesting you appear as a candidate.

Diversity in your referrals is also key. If you’re receiving referrals from various practices or locations, it indicates you’re a strong candidate who deserves careful consideration. A local referral might carry a bit more weight, as people may know each other, which is an obvious advantage. However, remember that referrals can be effective across borders as well.

The rank of your referrers matters significantly. A referral from a partner, for instance, carries considerable weight at MBB and other consulting firms. At the same time, it is much more difficult to receive a referral from a partner. For most candidates, a referral from an Associate or project manager level should suffice.

Who Should You Seek Referrals From?

It’s essential to seek referrals from current consultants. Referrals from HR staff or former consultants usually do not carry any weight. As a result, you should focus your networking efforts on connecting with actively practicing consultants.

Start building these connections early to ensure you have one or several potent referrals ready when you decide to apply. By keeping these guidelines in mind and strategically working on your referral approach, you can establish valuable contacts that will significantly boost your application.

How Do Referrals Work?

While referrals are a thing in all consulting firms, not just in MBB, the referral processes can vary significantly by firm and location. The core concept is consistent: a current employee recommends a prospective candidate. However, the specifics of this process and its significance can differ.

In some instances, candidates apply independently, while simultaneously, their contact at the firm informs HR. Alternatively, the employee might inform HR first, who then provides the candidate with a special link to apply.

It’s important to note that previously, candidates would apply directly through consultants, who then forwarded the documents to HR. This method has become less feasible in many regions due to data protection laws.

Furthermore, the impact of a referral in the hiring process varies by location. In some areas, a referral is highly influential, while in others, it is just one among several factors considered.

Understanding the referral mechanics and dynamics unique to each consulting firm and its location is crucial for a successful application. For instance, a deeper understanding of the Bain referral process for consulting jobs helped one of our clients (see the success story below). Gaining insight in this area is a key part of effective networking efforts that you should engage in.

Here are the steps for obtaining a referral:

Success Story: Overcoming an Application Setback with a Referral

Improving your consulting application with referrals can significantly enhance your chances of success.

The following is a story of one of our clients. It shows how a referral can help you at different stages of your recruiting journey, both before your application or after a failed application (which usually comes with an application ban).

After an initial rejection from Bain due to a gap in my resume, I knew I needed a stronger approach. I focused on improving my resume and sought out networking opportunities with current consultants. Through a university alumni event, I connected with a Bain partner, who was impressed by my determination and insights into the consulting industry. With her referral, not only was I able to bypass the usual waiting period for reapplication, but my application was also given special consideration (so I believe), leading to a successful pass through the screening process. Never underestimate the power of a well-placed referral.”

Referral Success Story from One of Our Clients

How We Can Help You Break into Consulting

As former McKinsey consultants, we have specialized in getting our coachees into top consulting firms to start their McKinsey careers, BCG careers, and Bain careers. You can reach out to us for advice on

• the proper networking approach
• issues with getting a referral
• creation of your cover letter and resume
• consulting aptitude tests for McKinsey, BCG, and Bain
• MBB and other consulting case interviews
• MBB and other consulting fit interviews

We are happy to provide essential consulting application tips and offer a tailored program to help you break into consulting.

Consulting Application Referrals: Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating the referral process can be a pivotal step in your consulting application journey. To help you understand and optimize your approach, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about obtaining referrals for consulting applications.

What makes a referral crucial for consulting applications?
Referrals can significantly enhance your visibility to recruiters, implying a personal endorsement of your skills and fit for the firm, thereby increasing your chances of progressing through the application process.

How can I increase my chances of getting a referral from a current consultant?
Build genuine relationships by engaging in meaningful interactions, demonstrating your interest in consulting, and clearly articulating how your skills and experiences align with the firm’s values and needs.

Are referrals from non-consultants valuable in the application process?
While referrals from current consultants are typically more influential, those from clients or industry professionals known to the firm can still add credibility to your application.

Can attending events significantly improve my referral prospects?
Yes, events provide a platform to network with consultants and firm representatives, offering a direct opportunity to make a positive impression and potentially secure a referral.

What is the best way to approach consultants on LinkedIn for referrals?
Personalize your message, highlighting any common connections or interests, and express genuine curiosity about their experiences. Be concise and respectful of their time.

How do consulting firms’ mentorship programs work, and how can they aid in getting referrals?
Firms offer mentorship programs to guide potential candidates through the application process. Active participation and building a strong relationship with your mentor can lead to a referral.

What are the differences between McKinsey, BCG, and Bain’s referral processes?
While the overarching goal of a referral is consistent across firms—to introduce top talent—each firm has its nuances in how referrals are processed and the weight they carry in the application review. With differences across firms and even offices of the same firm, this is an excellent conversation topic for networking.

How can I prepare my resume to make a strong impression for a referral?
Highlight relevant experience, quantify your achievements, and tailor your resume to the consulting world, focusing on problem-solving, leadership, and impact.

Is it possible to get a referral if I don’t have a direct connection within the firm?
Yes, by leveraging LinkedIn, alumni networks, and attending firm events, you can establish new connections with firm consultants who may be open to referring you based on your interactions.

What are the common mistakes to avoid when seeking consulting referrals?
Avoid being overly aggressive or entitled in your approach. Do not spam multiple consultants with the same message, and ensure any request for a referral is based on meaningful interaction and mutual respect.

Engage with Us

Your journey to a career in consulting is unique, and we understand you may have more questions or seek further clarification on navigating the application process, especially when it comes to obtaining referrals. Whether you’re curious about specific details of the referral process, how to make your application stand out, or personal experiences with consulting applications, we’re here to help.

Please feel free to ask your questions or share your concerns in the comments section below.