Applications & Resumes
Can a strong referral still end in a resume-screen rejection?
I applied to BCG through a referral and was rejected at the CV stage even though I thought the application was strong. Recruiting mentioned that my connection to the office location wasn't strong enough. Does a referral only improve the odds rather than guarantee an interview?
Ian’s Answer
Unfortunately this does indeed mean that your overall application was rejected. I'm sorry!Please remember that referrals, while they help immensely to increase your odds, are not gaurentees (nothing is a gaurentee).This is why it's so important to apply to dozens of firms. Even the best candidate with the best possible referral is not a 100% lock to get the interview.It sounds like when they say “connection with the office city” they're talking about your resume not matching. This is so critical!Everyone worries about which offices have high demand and low supply. But they forget that recruiters are evaluating a candidates match to their office/country.Please make sure you're applying to places where your profile makes sense (you have lived/worked/studied there, you speak the language, you have working rights in, etc.)
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