How to switch from a boutique consulting firm working with major clients to one of the bigger consulting firms?

Hello there,

Typically, an MBA is a sure-fire door opener to get your foot at least on getting the interview stage, even for many people who doesn't exactly fits the standard profile searched by the firms.

However, given your strong trajectory and exposure, if you can approach consultants on your target firms and ask them to refer you, then the effect would be the same as getting an MBA, an interview opportunity.

What matters next is to actually ace the interview.

Hope it helps.

Kind regards,
Nathan

Hello!

It is for sure not necessary, since you need to take into consideration all the cost it has -opportunity cost, tuition, time invested, etc.-. However, for sure a good MBA is one of the classical doors to MBB.

Good luck!

Cheers,

Clara

Hello,

An MBA is not required, even if it could increase significantly your chances to get the offer.
Have you had the possibility, in the past, to interact with other consulting teams working for the same client? A good strategy is to develop and leverage a network of people working in your target company that could make a referral for you.

Best,
Luca

Hi,
an MBA will boost your chances, but before looking for it, I recommend to text every ex alumni of your University/company now in MBB to ask for a referral.

Best,
Antonello

Hi Anonymous,

I replied to your questions below:

1) Will I need to complete an MBA to be able to switch/ successfully apply to one of the bigger firms?

Not necessarily, you can apply for an analyst position first and if that doesn’t work, then target an MBA and apply for a post-MBA one. The main advantage is that you may get sponsored for an MBA in this way.

2) What can I do to increase my chances?

As mentioned by Udayan, networking is the best thing to receive a referral. You can find more on networking here:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/hey-everyonehope-all-is-well-3176

Best,

Francesco

I think if you read answers to similar questions posted on here the following advice is what you will hear consistently

1. Networking is the best way to switch. Assuming you did work that was relevant and impactful, with the right networking you should be able to land an interview. There are many ways to go about this, happy to guide you on what approach would suit you best.

2. An MBA from a top 10 or 15 program will definitely give you a huge leg up. MBB recruit heavily from top B schools in the US and you will very likely get calls for all 3 interviews

3. Non MBA degrees I would not recommend as they typically don't work as well for MBB

All the best,

Udayan