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As an experienced hire what is the best position to apply to at the various MBB firms i.e. Business Analyst/Consultant..

application process Experienced Hire
New answer on Aug 21, 2019
3 Answers
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Francois asked on Aug 21, 2019

I have been working for just under 5 years and want to apply to a position in management consulting but I am unsure at which level to apply to. Ideally I would like to apply to the highest position I am qaulified for but getting in is obviously more important. I have considered going the business school route (750 GMAT) but would like to avoid that if possible for now.

At which level should I apply for i.e. Business Analyst/Junior Associate/Associate at McKinsey?

Should I consider applying to more than one position at the same firm and if so should I add the same office locations?

Thanks in advance!

(edited)

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Deniz
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Aug 21, 2019
5+ Years at BCG & Kearney Dubai & Istanbul | 400+ Trainees | Free 15-min Consultation Call

Hi,

I can answer for BCG. The position that they will consider you depends on two main factors:

  • Number of years of experience
  • Your sector

In other words, if you have 5-year experience in a consulting company, you may be considered for a project leader position. However, if you worked in the industry, you are more likely to be considered for the consultant (post-MBA) position.

You can also have a chat with the HR and better understand which role you can apply to. I have also seen some examples, where the role of the candidate is upgraded/downgraded based on the interviews.

Best,

Deniz

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Vlad
Expert
replied on Aug 21, 2019
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

You should apply for the following:

  • McKinsey - Associate
  • Bain, BCG - Consultant

Regarding your second question - it really depends on your prior experience. E.g. if you are an expert in Finance or Digital - you can apply to the corresponding tracks / practices and the chances of getting there will be higher.

Regarding the offices - when you apply for a generalist track, you can select 3-4 office preferences and estimate the preferable offices with %. I would recommend prioritizing the offices where a) you can work legally b) Know the local language c) Are less competitive (e.g. Texas)

Best!

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Udayan
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Aug 21, 2019
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /12 years recruiting experience

For McKinsey you would come in as an Associate. Your rate of progression within the firm however could be faster than your class if you join the practice in which you have past experience and perform well

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Deniz gave the best answer

Deniz

Content Creator
5+ Years at BCG & Kearney Dubai & Istanbul | 400+ Trainees | Free 15-min Consultation Call
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