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Is it mandatory to go to OCI Receptions if the firms you interview with have them? What is the best way to approach this?

strawberrieee wrote:Is it mandatory to go to OCI Receptions if the firms you interview with have them? What is the best way to approach this?

Here are my thoughts on OCI receptions:

If they are before your OCI screener: they can help you meet more people at the firm, make a good impression, and learn more about the firm for talking points during your screener.

If you don't have a screener at the firm (and are still allowed to go): then they can function as a de facto screener and potentially lead to a callback if you impress the right person.

If the reception after your screener and open to everyone: then it likely won't have any impact on your chances of a callback if you don't go

If the reception is invite-only and only some people who did OCI screeners are invited: then you should 100% go unless you already have a conflict with another firm. Many firms will use these receptions/dinners as a prelude to giving callbacks. If you're invited to one of these and can't go, just tell them you already accepted another dinner offer and regret you can't go.