MBB

Hi there,

It depends on region, recruiting channel, timing (market/pipeline), etc.

It could be a few weeks to many months.

You should apply based on how your networking goes (each company will tell you different things based on multiple factors).

Also, this is 12 months away. Please focus on the here and now! Do your current job now. Get promoted. Build skills.

Then make this decision at the end of this year…when you can actually be informed.

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

• The length of time it takes to go from applying to starting a position at a consulting firm like MBB or a big 4 office can vary significantly. It typically depends on a number of factors, including the specific firm, the location, the demand for candidates, and the stage of the recruitment process.
• In general, the recruitment process for consulting positions can be quite competitive and time-consuming. It often involves multiple rounds of interviews, assessments, and other evaluation steps. The process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the specific firm and role.
• If you are applying for a consulting position and are interested in steering the timing of the interviews, you can consider including this in your cover letter. For example, you could mention a specific time period when you would be available for interviews or a preferred time of day. This way, you could detach the time of application and the time of the interviews.
• Keep in mind that the hiring firm may not always be able to accommodate your desired interview timing, as they may have their own scheduling constraints. However, expressing your availability in your cover letter can help to open up the possibility of finding a mutually convenient time for the interviews.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to address your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there, 

It varies a LOT. 

Personally, it was almost four months for me. I've had candidates who started within the month of getting the offer and others who started nine months later. 

Regardless of that, what is important to know is that you can also defer the start date. So if you're working somewhere already and don't yet want to quit, then you can always just start interviewing and by the time you get the offer decide what starting date would be best for you. 

Best of luck!
Cristian

Hi there,

If your goal is to start Q1 in 2024, you're looking at an application time around September 2023. This is peak season in many regions with interviews running September-November (this is a very general answer and may vary depending on a number of factors).

Prior to applying, however, there's plenty for you to do:

1. Networking: Start now and have a strong support network that will advocate on your behalf when the time comes
2. Application: Have your basic documents ready i.e. resume (must) & cover letter (optional), so you can hand them out to your consulting contacts when asked. They must be absolutely spot on!
3. Interview Prep: Depending on your work load, you may want to start preparing now to be about 80% ready by the time you apply in September. Once you apply, things can move very quickly and you don't want to start late when you could have started early.

Hope this helps a bit. Best of luck!

Hi!

The duration it takes to move from submitting an application to a top consulting firm like McKinsey, Bain, BCG (MBB) or big four companies such as Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC can be influenced by many factors, including the specific office and role you're applying for, as well as the current hiring needs and processes of the firm.

The application process for consulting jobs is commonly very demanding and intensive, and may include multiple stages of interviews and case studies. The process typically begins with a screening of the resume or CV, followed by a succession of interviews, case studies, and assessments. It usually takes several weeks, and in some cases even several months, to complete the process.

Given that you've only recently begun a new job, it may be wise to wait for a while before applying. The majority of consulting firms expect applicants to have at least one or two years of relevant work experience and to be currently employed. Additionally, when applying to consulting firms, you should ensure you are well-prepared, meaning you have practiced cases, polished your CV, and have a good understanding of the firm's values and the requirements of the role you're applying for.

As a general rule, it's wise to start preparing for your application well before you wish to start your new job, to ensure you present the best version of yourself to potential employers. Furthermore, it can be beneficial to reach out to your network and try to connect with someone already working at the firm to inquire about their experience.

In summary, it is difficult to provide a definite timeline for how long it could take from applying to starting a position at a top consulting firm, but it could range from a few weeks to several months. Therefore, it's advisable to start preparing early and be patient throughout the process.

_______________________

Dr. Sidi Koné 

(Former Senior Engagement Manager and Interviewer at McKinsey | Former Senior Consultant and Interviewer at BCG)

For experienced hires the process can take 2-3 months, and then they want you to start ASAP. 
 

For “new hires” the process can take 1-2 months, but they may have a specific target entry date, which you can negociate anyway. Applying early is better than latter, but 12 months is too early. Probably 5-8 months but you have to check with them the typical entry dates.