Applying to a higher consulting rank

Hi!

I think the answer is a clear no unfortunately. MBBs will rather rank you lower, unless you worked at another MBB. And in your situation, they would rather want to see a recent promotion to rule out performance issues at your current firm.

Cheers, Sidi

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Dr. Sidi S. Koné

Former Senior Engagement Manager & Interviewer at McKinsey | Former Senior Consultant at BCG | Co-Founder of The MBB Offer Machine™

Hi,

Sharing my perspective having switched from T2 to MBB.

• While you theoretically meet the requirements, it is up to recruiting to determine what level they want to slot you into
• Furthermore, your performance during the interview may also end up affecting the final offer you receive (assuming you get the offer)
• Lastly, transitioning between firms is not easy, and personally I have no regrets taking a tenure/rank cut when I made the switch to BCG

All the best!

Hi there,

1) Is it possible for me to apply for a rank+1 (i.e., Associate position) at an MBB in the same region? 

I have a few friends who moved from another consulting firm to MBB. When this happened, they had to join in a position lower than the one they previously held. For this reason, and to maximize the chances of a successful lateral move, I would not recommend applying for a higher position.

2) Will my application be considered or directly rejected since I shouldn't have applied for a rank+1 position?

They might propose to interview for an Analyst position, so the application won’t be necessarily rejected. Still, if you haven't applied yet, as mentioned I would recommend applying for the same position you have and not a higher rank.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

If you will have only worked at the current rank for 2 years, and you're applying to a higher tiered firm, then I think it's unlikely you can jump a role. Look, I'd have to see your resume itself to better gauge and you should 100% network to get a better idea, but I'd put it at a 50/50 shot. 

Remember that your screening call and, in some instances, the interview itself can determine your fate as well.

To be fair, these things are not as clear cut as we might wish them to be. 

Yes, in theory, you qualify. 

In practice, they might not like it that you don't already have the equivalent senior role in Tier 2. Usually, when you go from Tier 2 to MBB, you go down a rank. You're trying to go UP a rank. 

My advice would be to discuss this situation with HR and ask them what role would fit you best. Treat as you problem-solving with them. Then if they reject you at least you know it's not because of the role selection. 

Best,

Cristian

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Hi there,

Here's some quick feedback:

Is it possible for me to apply for a rank+1 (i.e., Associate position) at an MBB in the same region? Yes, it is possible, and I would generally advise exactly that. The downside is virtually zero because MBB are very good at placing you in the right role during the recruitment process. For example, you apply for role X and they like your profile but think you're more suited for X-1, then they'll put you in the process for X-1, even if you didn't apply for the role.

Will my application be considered or directly rejected since I shouldn't have applied for a rank+1 position? It will be considered, assuming that your application ticks some more fundamental boxes, which it seems to. Assuming that everything looks great on paper and it's just a matter of position X or X+1, you have nothing to worry about (see above reply about placing people in the process)

Hope this helps a bit. Best of luck!
Moritz

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While it is possible to apply for a rank+1 position at an MBB firm, it is important to note that the decision ultimately rests with the firm's recruitment team. MBB firms typically have specific criteria and expectations for each position, and they may have a preference for candidates who have followed a more traditional career progression within consulting.

However, having 4+ years of experience, including 1 year in consulting, along with a non-MBA master's degree from a target school, puts you in a strong position to be considered for an Associate role at an MBB firm. Your industry experience and educational background can provide valuable insights and expertise that may be attractive to MBB firms.

When applying, it is crucial to highlight your relevant experience, achievements, and skills that align with the requirements of the Associate position. Emphasize your consulting experience, the impact you have made in your current role, and any notable projects or accomplishments. Additionally, leverage your network and connections within the MBB firm to increase your chances of being considered.

While there is a possibility that your application may be initially reviewed for a more junior position, it is not uncommon for candidates with strong profiles to be considered for higher-level roles. The recruitment team will assess your qualifications and fit for the specific position, and they may invite you for further interviews or discussions to determine the best fit.

Ultimately, it is important to showcase your capabilities, demonstrate your passion for consulting, and articulate why you believe you are a strong fit for the Associate position at the MBB firm. Each firm has its own recruitment process and criteria, so it is difficult to predict the outcome with certainty. However, with a compelling application and a strong profile, you have a good chance of being considered for the Associate position.

If you have any further questions or need additional guidance, feel free to ask. Best of luck with your application, and I hope you find success in your career aspirations.

Hi,

Since you formally meet the requirements, I think it's ok for you to apply for a rank+1 position. Worse case scenario: they'll still consider your application, but for a lower rank than you want to apply for. 

The position you are considered for depends on how strong and relevant your profile is. The HR may choose to either downgrade or upgrade the position to match your actual experience.

The position you are offered, in addition to your profile's strength, also depends on your actual interview performance (case + fit) and the overall seniority level that you demonstrate.

Good luck!
Nick

Hi there,

Q1: Is it possible for me to apply for a rank+1 (i.e., Associate position) at an MBB in the same region?

You can apply but transition from tier-2 to MBB usually works the other way around. Applicants usually join one level below their previous position (or the same if they have a lot of experience in the current position).

Will my application be considered or directly rejected since I shouldn't have applied for a rank+1 position?

I suggest you apply to analyst position and discuss with your recruiting contact what are your chances to apply to the next role. If you do as you say there are chances you’re reject in your application.

Best,

Alberto

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