Applying for a consulting position in England from Eastern Europe

Hi there,

1) Is it a disadvantage that I am applying from abroad, or even more so that I am not even applying from Western Europe, which is a geography that is a bit more comparable to England than Eastern Europe?

I assume you have an EU citizenship but not British one, correct?

If that is the case, then yes, this is a disadvantage (with Brexit). But, it's not one that cannot be overcome (with recommendations/networking/referrals)

2) Is it a wise idea to apply for experienced positions instead of entry-level ones?

You're mixing things up. No matter what you are applying as an experienced hire (i.e. from a current job).

You're asking whether you should apply entry level (analyst) or mid-levlel (consultant). I would say you fit the bill for consultant…but this is a great “excuse” for networking! Ask this question during your networking calls! (where do you see me at the firm?)

3) Would I stand a chance with MBBs coming from Tier-2 and different geography, or should I try with boutique firms? (I am not referring to passing the interviews, but rather if I would even be considered and invited for them.)

Yes. 

Try for both.

Network for all of them and make your resume as good as possible. You may as well try!

4) Do you have any recommendation on how to approach this journey? Is there anything I could do to improve my chances? (I have not started applying, I am currently in the planning phase.)

Make your resume as good as possible and network extensively. Hiring a coach will dramatically improve your odds (think about ROI and view yourself as the investment).

 These are all great questions! To take them one by one: 

1. It is not an inherent disadvantage that you’re applying from abroad, but the recruiting teams will want to know why you’re making the move. Essentially the first year or so that you join each office will invest a lot in training you, and they don’t want to do that if you’re going to then ask to move office and they essentially lose that investment. Things like having family and friends in the city, or really being interested in the types of industries that they have in the office are good reasons to moveSo I’d contact the recruiting teams to introduce yourself and explain why you’re applying from abroad. 

2. I‘d say you’re on the cusp and could go for either role. I’d speak with the recruiting teams and ask their advice. 

3. There‘s nothing to lose by trying for MBB and everything to gain. Put in the best resume you can and give it a go! It’s worth looking at boutiques as well though just in case it doesn’t work out. 

4. My best advice is to make yourself known to the recruiting teams and put together the strongest resume you can. Look at what qualities each firm is looking for and make sure these are reflected; and put in starts to quantify your successes. If you’re worried your uni won’t be known, put in brackets top ranked university in country - and try to keep it to one page. 
 

Good luck with the applications!