Applying to MBB after a year of consulting experience at another firm. Is this enough? If so at what level would I start

You will be considered for an entry-level post-MBA position (i.e. Associate at McK) for all MBBs. The only exception is if you have extensive consulting experience at manager level or above and with strong sector/functional expertise.

I have seen many directly hired EMs really struggle in adapting to the McKinsey approach with problem solving/leading projects as well as developing sponsorship with Partners. Considering promotion can be relatively fast, I don't think you lose much by joining as an Associate either way and only increases your chance of succeeding in the long run.

Hi!

Yes, it is possible to get hired after a year at a smaller consulting firm. Just ensure that this will enhance your CV with relevant experience for MBB.

But you will start at the same level as all other graduates. One year is by far not enough to be considered "experienced hire". 

That being said - this year could still help you get up to speed fast and have a head start compared to many of your peers who start in the same cohort then.

Cheers, Sidi

Hi Anonymous,

Yes, this can definitely work out since during your tenure at a tier-2 firm you can gain some competitive advantage compared to other peers, bringing you in a more favorable position.

Engangement manager however will be still far away after one year of tier-2 consulting (not entirely sure if you were still referring to a one-year tenure at tier-2 - if you stay for a couple of years also EM would be possible).

Hope this helps - if so, please be so kind to give it a thumbs-up with the green upvote button below!

Robert

Hello, I believe that one of the first question whenever the recriuting team is taking your CV "again" is what have changed since the last time (better preparation to case is not an answer for them). They will take you once again for a new round of interviews if they see your progress over time. MBA is a great think but if you can add a 2 tier company is obviously even better.

Still, years of career do not account the same in and outside of MBB, therefore I think that both options may occure. The positive situation is that whenever you are between both positions, the interview may lead to a question mark which position they will propose you. If you will have an outstanding performance during the case, they for sure will consider the higher position. 

Yes, it is possible to get hired by MBB after your year spent in tier-2 firm. But, before making this step in your life, please, make sure that your future experience will be relevant (with is I mean compliment or align) with your role in MBB. Thus you can enrich your CV.

Also, take care of networking to increase your chances in getting the MBB.

Do you have any further questions regarding these?

Feel free to contact me DM

GB

Hi there,

Absolutely it is! As long as you network and can get a referral into the firm...

Provided you get an interview, you would be coming in as a generalist consultant (definitely not EM or Project Lead)

Hi there,

You can definitely join an MBB after one year, as long as you justify that you improved your application in this period.

Also, it will not be possible to join an MBB as an EM/PL after 1 year in a boutique consulting firm, you will need many more years of experience there (and certainly an equivalent to a Principal/Director or Senior Manager level) to be able to join as an Engagement Manager at an MBB.

I hope this helps!

Mehdi