How to crack the code to get into multinational companies

Multinational companies (MNCs) are among the most sought-after employers for young professionals and students in Bangladesh's competitive job market today. 

Landing a job at companies like Unilever, Nestlé, BAT, Grameenphone, or the Big Four (PwC, Deloitte, EY, and KPMG) is considered a dream opportunity due to their attractive salary packages, well-defined career growth paths, and international exposure.

However, what exactly does it take to 'crack the code' and secure a position at one of these Bangladeshi giants?

Build a powerful CV— not just with CGPA 

MNCs often use CGPA cutoffs for initial screening, so it's important to maintain a decent CGPA—preferably above 3.3 on a 4.0 scale, though the exact requirement can vary across different sectors and backgrounds.

But CGPA alone is never enough. Co-curricular activities matter a lot— join university clubs and participate in case competitions like BizMaestros, Battle of Minds, and Unilever Future Leaders' League. Internships matter more than you think—try gaining experience early on by interning at local startups, banks, or FMCGs. Even a role at a local company provides real-world experience that MNCs highly value.

Excel in communication and presentation skills

English fluency is non-negotiable. Practice speaking, writing, and presenting in English regularly. Join public speaking platforms like BD Debating Circuit, MUNs, or Toastmasters. Watch interviews and elevator pitches of global leaders. 

Practice your own STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories for interviews. Even if you are from Bengali medium or a beginner, don't hesitate to give a presentation in English. Consider a few average presentations before faculties or your batchmates as your practice session on MNCs. 

Even watching global news and following international newspapers regularly could be a turning point in your communication skill journey.

Learn core skills and knowledge. For example, data analysis, excel, PowerPoint, google workplace, etc. Learn how to do research. Even if you don't have an interest in them, learn how to learn them.

Build your personal brand online

Clean up your social media. HRs do check LinkedIn and sometimes Facebook. Use LinkedIn as your living resume. Regularly post about your learnings, competitions, achievements, or even failures and what you took from them. Don't make your facebook a meme page. 

Network like a professional. Use LinkedIn smartly. Follow HRs of companies you want to join. Engage with their posts and message politely asking for guidance (not jobs). 

Attend career fairs, workshops, and MNC open house events. Many MNCs in Bangladesh host university visits and competitions that often serve as hidden recruitment pipelines. Don't ask for jobs or favours directly; instead, ask how you can build your portfolio or develop the skill set that will make you stand out in the job market.

Master the art of case solving and aptitude tests

MNCs often start with online assessments (numerical, logical, verbal reasoning). Participate in business competitions. 

There are many mock tests available online to crack GMAT or GREs. Practice those to get questions common on assessment tests. Practice from SHL, Mettl, and Pymetrics. Learn case solving and business acumen.

Nail the interview round

Prepare your personal story. Know your 'Why this company', 'Why this role', and 'Tell me about a time you…' answers like the back of your hand. In panel interviews, be confident but humble. Many Bangladeshi candidates fail because they either oversell or undersell themselves.

Humility does not hurt anyone. Be humble. There is no course to teach people how to be humble or not to hurt anyone with words. But master these two. In the long run, you will benefit more than you can anticipate. 

Integrity is an asset. Even for MNCs or big corporations, the dedication, seniority, and integrity of a person hold great value. Virtues are not to be pretended; try to have them.

Stay consistent, even if you fail

Not everyone lands a job at an MNC on their first attempt. Some get in after three internships, others after switching industries. Focus on growth, keep upskilling, and most importantly, don't let rejection define your worth.

To conclude, getting into an MNC isn't about luck—it's about strategy, effort, and staying relevant. You don't need to be from IBA-DU or NSU to land your dream job; students from all over Bangladesh are breaking into global companies with the right preparation. You can too—if you plan smart, prepare well, and show up consistently.