I started at a T2 firm in the US 2 weeks ago. Since MBB is recruiting again, is it too soon to reapply?

Question

I started at a T2 firm in the US in an entry-level position earlier this month after graduating with my Masters in May. MBB has started recruiting students again for the fall. Even though I'm not a student anymore, can I apply? Will it look bad since I've only been with my firm for a few weeks? I think the longer I wait, the more it'll hurt me because I'll have to make a lateral move if I do get into MBB, but by then I may be 24 or 25. I don't want to enter and start at the entry-level position if I already have a few years of experience.

Answer 1

Hello,

To clarify, do you mean that you would be recruiting now for an entry-level MBB position to start in Summer/Fall 2022? If so, I think it would be ok for you to apply. It is a little unusual, but not altogether unknown for candidates to start recruiting for new positions a year out shortly after they join a new firm, and by the time you start you will have had a year of experience in your current position. If you do go down this route, I would highly recommend thinking carefully about how you are going to justify this career move to the recruiters and interviewers, because it will raise some questions, so you want to make sure that you tell a convincing story. You will also want to make sure you are abiding by all the rules in your current firm that cover applying somewhere else so soon after starting.

If the start date would be sooner than a year out or so, there's still nothing stopping you from applying, but again you would have to think very carefully about how to frame this decision in the interview, and be prepared that this would cut all your ties and network with your current firm.

Answer 2

Hi there,

If you leave your T2 firm for MBB it does look bad and you'll be burning bridges. Of course, if you ultimately believe now is the best time (highest success chances) to apply, you should!

This is especially true if you have a referral.

You may as well apply and see what happens…best of luck!

Answer 3

Hi,

absolutely, don't feel guilty at all about it, it makes totally sense. The process of interviewing for MBB is quite long and - if you start now - they would give you an offer for the Fall of 2022. You have 1 full year in the company where you are currently working that can be a very good “gym” for your future in MBB.

Best of luck.

Have a great day!

Answer 4

If you must try for MBB - then you should. Yes, you will burn some bridges at the T2 firm, but if you feel the benefits will outweigh the downsides for YOU then YOU should take that chance.

Answer 5

Hey,

If MBB is where you really want to be, then I don't see any reasons why you should hesitate in applying & trying now. But its a future event and may not happen, not that I wish that for you :).

Just have a good story ready to explain the move from current company after a short stint. And while you are at it, don't drop the ball in the current company. Keep doing good work while you try for MBB.

All the best.

Answer 6

Hi, if your n.1 goal is joining an MBB you should do it now. If instead you are happy with spending 2+ years in your firm, and potentially look for an MBA before coming back to consulting postpone the application to post MBA to enter with an associate/consultant level

Best,
Antonello