I attended a MBB target school for MBA, but chose to get a job in F500 company to change my career. In my post-MBA job, I developed passion for consulting, but I feel I probably have missed the best window to enter consulting. Obviously I am not an expert in the new field where I am, and I am not a student hire either. How do MBB view such applicants? Thanks!
(editiert)
You would be viewed as an experienced hire nonetheless. Given that you went to a target school, the best way forward for you would be to reach out to alums that are senior (ideally partners) at the firms you are targeting and try and obtain a referral that way.
You will join as an Associate (same level as post MBA) but you can be considered for quicker promotions if you are a strong performer.
All the best,
Udayan
Hi,
I would not worry too much about this. If a candidate is good enough then consulting firm will hire (Even in this crazy times, they only raise the bar not stop hiring)
Having said that, if you are alredy a manager leading a team in your current role, you might need to step down a notch in term of seniority compared to your position now.
Hope this helps :)
Hi,
It is totally okay. And you are not the only case.
Only that you might still start at a post MBA level, but given that it is only 1-2 years, it wouldn't be too much a concern if I am in your shoes.
Best,
Emily
Hi, target school MBA + experience in F500 is a great fit for consulting. I would work on the application and a referral
best,
Antonello
Hi there,
Moving into consulting few years after the MBA is definitely feasible - I helped several people in your situation.
As mentioned by Udayan and Emily, you will likely have to join at a post-MBA position. In the long term it won’t be a major factor, considering the benefits a career in MBB offers.
Best,
Francesco
Hello!
Not at all! That window never closes as long as you keep a good track record. MBBs hire also at EM, AP and even partner level.
leverage the MBA network to get a referral, this will smoothen the process.
Best,
Clara
I agree with the other responses, just one additional comment: Unless you have significant pre-MBA experience, you will probably receive an offer for a post-MBA position. This means you might end up being staffed on cases and reporting into one of your former class mates.
Dear A,
Don't worry, you can start as a post MBA, and all the MBA studenta are really wanted.
If you need any help, feel free to reach out.
Best,
André
Hello,
Do not worry so much, post-MBA are always welcome in MBB. The only concern that you could have is regarding the position, what do you expect?
Best,
Luca
Hi there,
You'd be surprised - this really isn't as big of a deal as you think!
Now, have you missed out on the recruiting pipelines at your MBA (i.e. top-tier companies literally coming to you and begging you to apply)? Yes. Does this mean they value you any less now? No at all!
However, you won't have anything handed to you like during the MBA program
How do you bridge this gap?
Here, I cannot overemphasize the importance of networking, networking, networking. Yes, make sure you have a killer resume and cover letter, but also, network heavily and target a referral.
In terms of networking tactics:
a) Reach out to people in your network - here, you have a huge advantage...reach out to your fellow MBAers, the career office, etc.
b) Reach out to people once removed from your network
c) Reach out to people with a similar backgorund to you (i.e. same alma mater, same hometown, same career switch, etc.)
d) Tailor a message to them specifically both showing interest in them and their journey and demonstrating that you have done your research and could be a valuable hire
e) Play "tag" across calls you get so that you can work your way towards the company/office/role you want
f) Leave a strong impression - i.e. don't ask "basic questions". Rather, demonstrate your ability/intelligence by asking smart questions, carrying a natural conversation, showing genuine interest, etc.
