Every year, talented candidates attend Big Four networking events and unknowingly sabotage their chances with avoidable mistakes.
You've invested time finding the right events on Big4Events—don't let these common errors waste that effort.
Here are the five mistakes that cost candidates opportunities, and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Showing Up Unprepared
- The Error: Arriving without researching the firm, not knowing what questions to ask, or lacking a clear understanding of the event format.
- Why It Matters: Recruiters can spot unprepared candidates immediately. When asked "What interests you about our firm?" and you give a generic answer that could apply to any company, you've lost the opportunity.
- The Fix: Spend 30 minutes before every event researching the firm's recent news, practice areas, and values. Know which service lines interest you and why. Prepare 5-7 thoughtful questions. Understand the event format—is it a career fair, panel discussion, or networking mixer? Each requires different preparation.
Mistake #2: Being Too Transactional
- The Error: Treating every conversation as a means to an end. Asking "How do I get an interview?" within the first two minutes. Viewing people as stepping stones rather than potential connections.
- Why It Matters: Consultants value relationship-building and emotional intelligence. Transactional behavior signals you're focused on what you can get, not what you can contribute.
- The Fix: Approach conversations with genuine curiosity. Ask about their experiences, challenges they've solved, and what they find rewarding about their work. Build rapport before discussing recruitment. When you do mention applications, frame it around fit and mutual interest, not just getting hired.
Remember: networking creates relationships first, opportunities second.
Mistake #3: Not Asking Any Questions
- The Error: Passively listening without engaging, or only talking about yourself when given the chance.
- Why It Matters: Questions demonstrate interest, critical thinking, and engagement. Silence suggests disinterest or lack of preparation. Recruiters remember candidates who asked insightful questions.
- The Fix: Prepare questions across multiple categories: firm culture, day-to-day work, career development, specific practice areas, and industry trends. Ask follow-up questions based on their answers—this shows you're actively listening.
Avoid questions easily answered on the website (office locations, practice areas they offer).
Mistake #4: Poor Follow-Up (Or None At All)
- The Error: Collecting business cards but never reaching out, waiting weeks to follow up, or sending generic connection requests.
- Why It Matters: Follow-up separates interested candidates from those just collecting contacts. Most people fail at this step, making it your opportunity to stand out.
- The Fix: Send personalized messages within 24-48 hours. Reference specific conversation points to jog their memory. Express genuine appreciation and interest in staying connected.
Bad: "Hi, nice to meet you at the event. Let's connect!"
Good: "Hi [Name], I really enjoyed our conversation about sustainability consulting at yesterday's EY event. Your experience with the [specific project] was fascinating. I'd love to stay connected as I explore opportunities in this space."
Mistake #5: Neglecting Professional Presentation
- The Error: Dressing too casually, arriving late, bringing rumpled resumes, checking your phone constantly, or displaying closed body language.
- Why It Matters: First impressions form within seconds. Professional presentation signals you take the opportunity seriously and understand workplace norms.
- The Fix: When in doubt, dress business professional. Arrive 10-15 minutes early. Bring multiple pristine resume copies in a portfolio. Silence your phone completely. Maintain eye contact, offer firm handshakes, and keep an open posture.
Recovering From Mistakes
Made one of these errors? It's not fatal. Send a thoughtful follow-up acknowledging any missteps and demonstrating what you've learned.
Authenticity and growth mindset matter to recruiters.
Your Path to Networking Success
Avoiding these mistakes doesn't guarantee success, but making them virtually guarantees missed opportunities.
Learn from others' errors, prepare thoroughly, and approach every event as a learning experience.
Ready to put this knowledge into practice? Browse upcoming Big 4 events on Big4Events and network with confidence.
