What are real alternatives to MBB firms?

Question

Soo, my situation is the following: I failed two of my MBB interviews in the final round, and now have only one chance left. While I am convinced I have what it takes to become part of MBB, am very determined to work for MBB, after two rejections, naturally, I am a bit discouraged. In two weeks my last interview is scheduled. To reduce the pressure on myself, I want to think of alternatives. The reason for my "obsession" with MBB are the career opportunities it will give me, the travels, salary and must admit the prestige as well. So I am asking you guys: what are real alternatives to MBB firms? I'd appreciate if you could share your opinion! Thanks :-)

Answer 1

I felt the same when going through my interviews. Consulting is a career accelerator but it is definitely not the only one.

In my opinion, some real alternatives to MBB are:

Consolidated tech companies (e.g. Facebook, Google, LinkedIn)
New, fast-growth tech companies (e.g. Uber, Deliveroo, Tesla)
Entrepreneurial programs (e.g. EntrepreneurFirst, Rocket Internet)
Entrepreneurial adventures (e.g. joining a 10 person start-up in Shangai, and really taking ownership for its development)
Investment banking (e.g. Goldman Sachs)

Now that you know that not getting into MBB is not the end of the world, I hope you can take a step back and make the most of the opportunity you have. You are clearly doing extremely well, having reached final round in all MBB firms, keep on preparing and have fun!

If you have any other questions send me a message. I know the feeling and I am sure I'll be able to help.

Answer 2

Don't fixate only on the 3 MBB! There are many consulting firms that have their own advantages as compared to MBB. If you actually want to do this type of job, I would recommend you to apply to inhouse consultancies, like DHL. It is very international. Oliver Wyman, AT Kearney, RB, OC&C, stern stewart, strategy& could be options.

Otherwise, Ignacio gave a really good answer with other options where you get similar benefits, experience abroad etc.

Answer 3

Did you apply to other consultancies or only MBB?! I think it’s best to apply to smaller consulting firms first and climb up the interview level and schedule interviews with MBB at the end when you already very experienced… Anyway don't take it too serious if you don't get it, there are so many other options that also give you those career opportunitiest, travel, salary.

Answer 4

Depends on what you what, but tech was a smooth transition for me

Answer 5

Depends on whether you want to stay in the same industry. Within consulting there are of course only a few firms that compete on the same prestige - and usually with a very narrow geographical focus.

Outside of consulting: look into FAANG, the large IBs....but that of course depends on your preferences and background