Hi All,
I posted a similar question to WSO a few weeks ago, but I didn't get much feedback, so trying out the community here.
Does anyone have insight regarding a career transition from trading/capital markets into MBB or consulting in general?
Thank you!
Hi Ross,
I think the answer to your question is independent of whether you are in trading or not. What you need is a networking strategy:
Identify sectorial and functional areas within MBB that are covered by specific practices, and then devise a plan to connect with insiders at the firm. Here, it is extremely important to do it properly! By no means should you start writing to some random practice-affiliated Associates or even Project Managers. Networking works best from the very top when done properly. For example, when I networked my way into McKinsey, I did only talk to Directors and Partners who then eventually directly channeled me into the interviewing process without formal application.
This approach requires some work and diligent preparation, but in my oppinion this is the most effective method by far if you don't belong to the classical target group of fresh graduates.
Cheers, Sidi
Hi,
This is a broad question, so not sure if I understood the question:
Best
Hi Vlad, thanks for the encouragement. My major concern (that I didn't state) was that others have told me B school would likely need to be a platform to make the transition. I'd prefer to not spend $150k on the chance to interview, so I was curious of the barriers to entry that make exist for a career transition from a role that is so specialized/niche like trading. Thank you!
(edited)
Hi Ross,
The transition from Trading to Consulting is absolutely possible and feasible - I did it myself. Although I attended business school in between, that is definitely not a requirement and was more something I chose to do. I know many others who have made it without an MBA.
Specific insights/thoughts on the transition however:
Hope the above helps, feel free to message me directly if you want to have a more in depth conversation about the transition over.
Best,
James
Hi James, I appreciate your comments! I believe I sent you a message, but lmk if you did not receive it. Thanks
Hi Sidi, your comments about networking well and correctly is well-timed, as I've only had success chatting with younger associates or junior members. Is it worthwhile to network from the top if the directors/partners are not located in my region? Thank you for the very good info.
Yes absolutely! You can always be referred to someone in your region to „operationally“ drive the process further, but the referral needs to carry adequate weight. This is not something that can be pulled of just like this - as indicated, you need to diligently work out a strategy. Let me know if you want to discuss in detail. Cheers, Sidi