Did not get MBB Return Offer: Is Moving "downwards" to lower tier firms perceived negatively?

1. Other firms will not know whether you get a return offer or not for this internship (or at least they are not supposed to know...) You can just explain why you will choose the firm you are interviewing for over the others if you are granted an offer.

2. You should apply for other firms to maximize your chance to get into strategy consulting.

3. Not really, some non-MBB consulting firms have good reputation and resources in particular sectors (e.g. OW - financial services, Accenture - IT) Of course, the MBB experience opens the door to better exit opportunities, like getting into a reputable MBA or even a position in senior management if you decide to move into a large corporation.

4. Most probably no, given you turned down the offer politely with explanation. Anyways, it's no harm reapplying if you are still interested in the job.

Hope it helps!

To add to Lin's answer

1. I think this would require some explanation - there is an expectation that most people get return offers from internships. I would focus on why the firm was not a good cultural fit (which I assume is the reason you were not coached well enough to get the offer). Alternatively provide a reason why you did not see yourself there

2. Go as wide as possible. Also what is the end goal? If it is to go into an MBA you'll be fine in most places. If it is the industry focus on firms that have a good reputation in the industry you are keen on exiting into

3. Not if you can explain it well. People have a tendency to judge but most will understand if you have a good answer

4. As Lin said - reach back out, say you did not see yourself as a good fit in the firm you interned at and were wondering if you could be reconsidered

(editiert)

Hi,

1. Non-MBB firms will not care. For MBB firms it's a red flag. However, I know the cases when the candidates applied back and got the offer later from the same company
2. That's up to you and your risk appetite. Chances of getting an MBB offer are pretty low so I would diversify the risks
3. Nope, nobody cares especially outside consulting. But you should always be ready to explain

Best!

If you're in b-school or undergrad, can you just leave it out of your CV?

Oh and if someone asks you about that, it is a what people call a "pressure question"

I would just leave it out