Switch from boutique to MBB

Hello,

Here's my take on this:

Is it feasible? Yes

• As I mentioned in another recent thread, it is definitely possible to move from boutique to MBB
• I have seen this from a few from boutiques who get hired for their expertise
• Even if you don't have a specific expertise yet (i.e. because too junior), if you have a strong application and referral, there is definitely a chance

Are there other alternatives? Yes

• However, you don't need to have a boutique background specifically because it gives you a ‘consulting background’
• In my time at BCG, I've known doctors, lawyers, police officers, civil servants who have all made the transition successfully
• So, there are many other paths for you right now 
  • Going to a ‘hot’ industry now - whether its AI, or Tech (relatively still hot, once this macro environment turns around imo)
  • Going to a target MBA

All the best!

Hi there, 

Not only is it feasible, it's also smart. 

When the market is contracting, you should aim to go as wide as possible. The whole point is to maximize your current benefit within the current restrictions that you have. So that could mean going for a boutique firm and gaining additional experience as a consultant and then reapplying, rather than not getting work experience at all in this time. 

You need to develop an application strategy to navigate this with clarity and maximize your chances of getting at least one offer. Happy to walk you through this. 

Best,

Cristian

As the name suggests, boutique firms are much smaller than MBB or Tier 2 and they have fewer openings - even in good market conditions. So the logic to go there because the big consulting firms are not hiring much is probably flawed. 

If you want to end up in consulting, then you should be applying to all sorts of consulting firms that interest you right now and see where you can get in. That's likely the most feasible approach in such a situation.

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

• First of all, it's important to note that while there may be a slowdown in recruiting among strategy consulting companies, this might not be the case for the specific company and office you actually want to apply, and this might very well also be the case for the specific boutique consulting company and office you are going to apply.
• Still, in my opinion, it is a good idea to increase your chances of securing a job in strategy consulting by also considering boutique consulting companies (in fact, boutique consulting companies offer very similar experiences and opportunities what you can also read about in this article I wrote). This way, you will gain valuable experience in strategy consulting which will make you an even more attractive candidate for major strategy consulting companies in the future.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to address your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

Have MBB given you an offer? 

Well, then why are you presenting yourself with a false decision/dilemma? :P

Network and apply to as many firms as possible.

Even in great economic times, it's foolish to just apply to the best 3 firms…they might not even given you a chance to interview!

You 100% should apply to as many boutique (and Tier 2) firms as possible! Worst case scenario you get a lot of practice. A more likely scenario is you find a firm you really enjoy working at.

Hi there,

If MBB and tier-2 firms are slowing down or even freezing hiring, then boutique firms are even more affected.

If your goal is MBB and your resume is strong enough then try MBB right away (especially in the current market)!

Cheers,

Florian

Boutiques are even more impacted given they are not diversified and are niche. Be careful there