Do you guys think it is possible to make a shift from HR to Consulting (MBB or Tier 2) ?

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• First of all, nothing is impossible, but your starting point matters. If you work in HR operations, the distance to your future responsibilities as a strategy consultant will be greater than if you worked in HR strategy.
• Moreover, ensure that your application story is concise. Clearly explain why you want to move into consulting and how your past experience offers a unique perspective. Consulting firms appreciate candidates with non-linear career paths, as long as the story makes sense.
• Lastly, prepare thoroughly your application files and for the interviews. Make sure your resume and cover letter are perfect, and that you are very solid with both the case study and personal fit parts.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

That really depends on a few factors:

- the role you’ve been playing

- what company you’ve been working for

- your educational background

- most importantly, the story you tell with your application 

It is likely possible! I’ve met a few consultants at McKinsey who were previously in HR roles (including someone who moved internally from McKinsey HR a long time ago)

Yes.

Though it likely won't be easy or direct.

I've seen it happen multiple times with people making a shift from the knowledge team or the internal research team into a consultant role. 

So it could work to first try and transfer into these internal 'content' roles from an internal 'admin' role, and then later transfer to a full consultant role. 

I'd recommend you speak with somebody senior in your office that you trust and get their advice on how to navigate this specifically in your firm. 

Best,
Cristian

Hello there,

Yes, if you have collected enough achievements in your career. Some things may contribute more: target school, GPA, how prestigious/ big are the names in your resume, etc. but the most important thing are the achievements and how they connect to what MBB is looking for.

Happy to help you craft a strong CV. I have worked with people with very limited experience and some unconventional backgrounds that passed the CV screening and got to the interview phases at companies such as McKinsey, Accenture, JP Morgan and Capgemini.

Feel free to reach out for a 20min free consultation.

Best,

Mari

Is it possible? Yes definitely, a lot of consultants come from non-traditional backgrounds. Will be easy? Probably not, as you have to show why you're different that the thousands of other applicants. My recommendations is to show through your application that you have worked on relevant topics, for example, people strategy, org design, talent analytics, transformation projects ...
Another way of making easier is to go gor an MBA.

Hi,

Yes but more feasible for Tier 2/3 rather than MBB. 

If possible, consider going to do an MBA, that is often the major 'reset' and pivot that can help accelerate your career into consulting.

All the best!

Hey :)

Yes, it’s definitely possible, but it depends on how you position your story. If you can show strong problem-solving, strategic thinking, and leadership through your HR work (especially in org design, change management, or people strategy), it can resonate well. You’ll likely need to put extra effort into networking, nailing the case interview format, and possibly aiming for an entry-level consultant or expert track, depending on your background.

MBB is more selective, so Tier 2 might be a smoother entry point, but with the right narrative and prep, both are within reach.

Best,
Alessa :)