Recruiting selectivity is not a single ladder where every boutique is automatically easier than every MBB office. Smaller firms may hire very few people and can be much more specific about industry, geography, or prior experience.

Treat it as a professional conversation even if it is described as a coffee chat. Recruiting may be checking interest, fit, timing, location, or simply building the candidate relationship.

Do not assume every office runs the exact same pre-interview process. Recruiting practices can differ by geography, school, candidate type, and cycle.