Maternity break

Question

I took an extended maternity break for almost 2.5 years and planning to apply for experienced hire roles at MBB and tier 2 consulting firms. I have 5 years of experience. Personally, I do not regret my decision and consider it inevitable. Not sure if the recruiters/ companies are in the same line of thought. How do consulting firms look at such long breaks ? How do I convince them that I am still competent and best at what I do ?

Answer 1

There are two main topics:

1- Getting an interview invitation: It i hard to tell anything without knowing your background. Your Cover Letter, Resume and Networking can play significant role.

2- Getting an Offer: You do not need to worry about any of those topics as long as you perform good at both case interview and fit interview. You can expect to invest around 100 hours to practice.

Best

Serhat

Answer 2

Hi,

Even though you are applying as an experienced hire, if it is a generalist role, most of your competences will be irrelevant for consulting. You will be hired not because of your competences but for your ability to solve the problems. Also, you don't really have a choice. So pls prepare and apply!:)

Best

Answer 3

Dear A,

I assume that might be difficult to aplly after a long break, so I would strongly recommend you to do that with referrals.

Wish you good luck,

André

Answer 4

Consulting firms will not look unfavourably on pregnancy breaks. Rather it will be linked to the strength of your 5 years work experience. Do work with an experienced coach / recruiter to refine your CV and cover letter before applying. They can also act as your referrals if they find your CV suitable