Help to understanding prospectives of MBB

Question

Hi,

I need a help to make a decision on pursuing a MBB career. I am from Uzbekistan, and have 5 years of experience after bachelor's at local university. I work as a BDD at system integrator and responsible for managing big infrastructure project, constantly keeping contacts with high-level government officials.

Last year, McKinsey Kazakhstan and Russia came to Uzbekistan to promote a career there, and I was among few people to pass the screening and got invited to the meeting. And I have also a acquittance who started at McKinsey USA then relocated to Kazakhstan office(now he is AP there) and he can do the referral for me.

Recently, BCG has opened an office in Uzbekistan and recruiting consultants. To get it in full, want to apply to Bain too, but to Middle East office.

I am pretty aware of the work at MBB, but I am curious to know what exit options these choices may provide if successful? My long-term goal is pursuing a MBA(funded by MBB) and after reaching EM level switch to Tech or other good company with good WLB, compensation and career ladder option.

Is it worth to allocate 2 months of efforts to prepare for the interviews and will these locations help to achieve a long term goal?

Thank you!

Answer 1

Hi Abdurokhman,

This is indeed an interesting question which is probably relevant for a lot of users, thus I am happy to provide my perspective on it:

It sounds like you have a good understanding of what a career at a top management consulting firm like McKinsey, Bain, and BCG can entail. In terms of exit options, a successful career at one of these firms can open up a wide range of opportunities, including roles in tech companies, other consulting firms, and even starting your own business. Pursuing an MBA, either through a program funded by one of these firms or on your own, can also be a great way to further your career and open up new opportunities.
In terms of whether it's worth spending two months preparing for these interviews, that ultimately depends on your individual goals and priorities. If a career at a top management consulting firm aligns with your long-term goals and you are willing to put in the effort to prepare for the interviews, it could definitely be a worthwhile pursuit. Keep in mind that the competition for these jobs can be intense, so it's important to be prepared and to put your best foot forward during the interview process.

In case you want a more detailed discussion on what to do in your specific situation, please feel free to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

Hi there,

From personal experience I can tell you that McKinsey on your resume will open just about any door for you. This is particularly true for EMs with an MBA, but also BAs/Associates that did a 2-3 year stint at the firm.

So yes, it's absolutely worth putting in the work now (intense prep and an intense 2-3 years at the firm) and reap the rewards for a long period after if MBB generally fits in your career/life plan.

Best of luck!

Moritz

Answer 3

Hi Abdurokhman,

That sounds like you have the plan laid out already. If you don't have significant experience with interviewing and casing, I would suggest though that you rather take about 2 months for practicing. A coach could help you reduce that time and work more efficiently, but it still requires a time investment from your side.

Aside from this, aim to apply to several firms and not only MBB. By the sounds of it you want to make a career transition, not specifically work within one firm, so strategically it makes sense to diversify your risk (considering the current economic climate and how firms sometimes randomly decide they've closed their recruitment pipeline).

Best,

Cristian

Answer 4

The short answer is yes - If you want a sponsored MBA and a strong set of opportunities in tech after making EM then MBB is a really good career option for you.

As for how long to prepare - that depends a lot on your current casing abilities and how much you have to learn and how quickly you are able to get there. My advice is to ask people like a current employee, and alumni or a coach to assess your performance and issues to address to get a sense of how much time you need.

All the best,

Udayan

Answer 5

Echo what everyone has already said. The only thing I would point out is that getting an MBA sponsored is not guaranteed. You will need good performance at the firm to make the business case.

Regardless, if you want to move into Tech you could also apply directly if that is where you want to end up. An MBA is not necessary.

What MBB does give you though is amazing skills in top-down structured thinking and stakeholder management, which is necessary for senior positions at large companies. And, of course, an amazing work environment and the ability to work with some brilliant colleagues. I would go for it!

Answer 6

Hi there,

You've done your research and certainly seem to have a good grasp of things. Your plan is good and I see no issues with it.

My short answer is that it can open so many doors (really “whatever” you want, if you do it right), and that you absolutely should dedicate 1-2 months to prep. Of course, I don't know what your alternatives options are here, but the current plan is a good one.

Here's some reading to keep in mind as you embark on your prep journey!

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/pitfalls-case-interview-preparation

Answer 7

Hi there,

I think you have a great goal ahead of you and the plan you outlined would definitely help you achieve it.

Yes, you would need to invest 1-2 months into interview preparation, which in my opinion, is a small price to pay for the benefits you can reap afterward.

Keep us updated about your progress and reach out if you need help!

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 8

It definitely is worth it… its highly aligned with your exit priorities.

Answer 9

It's a few hours a day, its a smaller investment than you make it sound. It seems like you already know your path

Answer 10

Hello Abdurokhman,

Yes absolutely go for it!

All the best!

Rushabh