Hi, all, I have gone through MBB's interview process but failed in the last round. I would like to seek advice on how to maximize my chance to get hired in 1-2 years of time frame.
To start, here's a bit of myself. Post MBA, I'm currently working at big four's financial advisory team, working on M&A projects on the financial (valuation, M&A brokerage, etc) and consulting (market assessment, target screening, commercial due diligence, etc) side. I have decided to take this role as I could leverage some project experience or techinical skills to re-apply to consulting firms.
Here are my questions:
(1) Which group at MBB should I target?
I have noticed that for McKinsey and BCG, there are specific groups that focus on corporate finance. For example, PE/Principal investment and corporate finance group at McKinsey, and corporate finance and strategy at BCG. I'm wondering whether these grouops are filled with ex-investment bankers and whether I should target these groups or a generalist role when I reapply. My key concern is I've just started working in the M&A field, and by the time I reapply, I will accumulate around 1.5 years of experience. Although I will be able to leverage related skillsets, I'm worried that I may not be able to stand out against others if most applicants are mainly from investment banking.
(2) Which case types (strategy/finance) should I focus most?
As mentioned in the beginning, I work on both financial and strategy projects of M&A deals, with more emphasis on the consulting side given my MBA background. I'm thinking of which types of projects should I work on in order to make my profile look more interesting to consulting firms. Should I focus more on strategy projects (to stregthen my consulting skillsets and experience), or should I focus more on financial projects (positioning myself as a finacial expert)? Or, it's good to have a blend of both?
Thank you so much for your advice.