Hi there, 

first of all, I am sorry for the anxiety you are going through right now. 

I am on the expert track myself, let me share my point of view:

1. I am wondering whether the interview format and evaluation are different from the generalist role →

• the screening is different in the sense you must prove strong expertise in the field/function AND at the same time you must clearly show you possess the key consulting skills as a generalist (problem solver, leadership, ability to make an impact, etc.)
• Interviews are the same, you may or not have a case from your expertise, but as an experienced hire the bar is higher (problem-solving, questions, recommendations, etc.)

  2. Practice Expert V.S. Practice Specialist

From my understanding 

Practice expert is equivalent to an Expert project leader ->  leading a case, you are already part of the leadership team hence you need to clearly demonstrate very strong expertise, leadership, client relation skills, communication, project management, etc. … your consulting skills must be at a very high level already.

Practice Specialist equivalent to consultant/associate, hence you don't lead the case but you a part of the team creating the content hence requirements are more on expertise, teamwork, resourceful, ability to work independently, etc. 

3. Application & result 

I don't think your application to the consultant would negatively impact your other application, but I would encourage you to reach out to HR team directly to ask about the status of the application and ask for a timeline. If you ask in a polite and educated way it is absolutely OK. 

MBB are eager to get experienced hires, but the process is not as straightforward as for a graduate from a top university or Business school, but candidates usually fail on following 2 key success points:  

1. Smart position targeting, as you can still become a generalist, but likely fenced in a specific industry, or you can be an expert, or join some of the special units such as knowledge team. 

2. An appealing CV and cover letter demonstrating your expertise would be a win for the company and you possess all core capabilities necessary for consulting (eventually offsetting lack of the top tier schools/or lack of MBA). 

Please feel free to reach out directly if you would need a support on this.

Wishing you all the best in 2022!

Lucie

(editiert)