Hey, 3 months in to the new role as an associate for a specific discipline.
Worked on 2 cases. Currently Free Capacity for approxi 2 weeks since Oct (and going away for holiday soon) but still help out to support if there's needed.
Pipeline is quite dry for my discipline. Do you guys actively find projects if you've none on hand so that you can maintain 'billable' or? :/ (though i kinda wanna enjoy this period since its rare to get a moment of peace)
Hi there,
Huge congrats on the relatively new role!
WIth regards to your question:
There is honestly no need to worry! Here is why:
1. 2-4 weeks of being on the beach from time to time is completely normal at MBB, and common in your first year, as you build a reputation and network
2. At MBBs, your first 6 months are essentially seen as your "training period" - you will not be judged on "utilization" straight away, as the firms see it as their duty to get you staffed in the beginning so you can prove yourself
So, my advice: Just enjoy the peace for now and have a great vacation!
That being said, it is never too early to start building your own network and pipeline proactively. Once you get a bit more senior, your utilization will start to matter, and you will be glad if you have a larger network to rely on, so definitely start early if you can - e.g., by picking partners you like and offering help on outstanding LOPs, etc.
Hope this helps!
Sincerely,
Thor
Hello!
I would say no need to worry for a couple of weeks since a) you're new and b) 2 weeks is not so much time.
However, this could be a great time for you to start thinking about who you want to align with, what cases you want to get on and other details like this. What they don't tell you is that even once you're in the firm networking is key. This will create internal promoters for you in the long run to get on good, interesting cases as well as line up support for promotion. So perhaps use these could weeks to set up coffee chats with people that you have found on your internal portal.
Being on the beach can be quite frustrating and typically consultants start blaming themselves at some point.
It's important first to acknowledge and accept that it's a normal part of business cycles and the consultant life.
Can you help yourself get staffed?
Yes. Typically you can reach out to the senior team on your previous projects, especially those with whom you've had a closer relationship, and ask them whether they are starting any projects soon (or know of any) that they would recommend you for.
Or, apply to any staffing announcements you receive.
Or, proactively network with senior leaders in the topics / industries / areas within your firm that you'd like to work on in.
Best,
Cristian
