Yesterday I interviewed with a boutique consulting firm, and they mentioned that they don't value much about MBA and past work experience itself. The rationale is, since I did not have experience in consulting, even if I manage to get an offer, I need to start from a junior level (which means lower pay). Except for internationally well-known tier1 / tier 2 firms, I have realized that several firms have the same approach. For example, Simon Kucher also does not have an "MBA program", and MBA graduates have to start from a junior role.
My question is - is it really that common that boutique firms do not care about MBA degree and work experience that is not directly related to consulting? Is it justified to "restart" career from the bottom of the consulting value chain getting low pays? My thought is, I would take this role only if I don't have other options. I don't feel justified that I will need to start a junior role with college or master student's who doesn't have any work experience. Thanks for any thoughts/advice!