MBB vs handicap

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about your medical situation!

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

• First of all, and contrary to what other coaches have said, nobody knows for certain how strategy consulting companies would react given that you are required to undergo dialysis at this frequency and length.
• As such, I would highly advise you to simply apply and see what the reaction is. In order to ensure your medical situation remains confidential with the recruiter, I would advise you to inform them separately via a call or e-mail.

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,

I'm very sorry that you have to go through something like this. But it is great to see that you do not let the circumstances discourage you in what you want to pursue and achieve.

My thought would be to not proactively bring it up during the interviews because

• You don't have much upside by telling them during the interviews already - your personality as well as your business and analytical capabilities should be the focus there and determine if you are a fit for the firm
• Potential employers are generally not supposed to ask about an applicant's health history and if they do, you are allowed to lie if the truth were to likely impair your chances. Granted, there are probably exceptions to this and it depends on the regional labor laws as well as the type of job you are applying for, but for consulting this should not be a reason

I would bring up the topic once you have received their written offer. Because then it becomes a matter of logistics and scheduling to make it work. But they have already stated that they want you on their team. And they can stick to their mission of inclusiveness or reveal themselves as hypocrites otherwise.

I wish you the best of luck

Hi there,

First of all, I'm sorry that this is somethign you have to deal with.

I think all of the other coaches have provided good perspectives.

I truly think this decision could go either way. It's not quite black and white. Perhaps, you could “try” telling a few and see how that conversation/result goes? Then, adjust accordingly.

Ultimately, this is a deeply personal choice - I truly don't know what I would do!

One thing to note: Just think if consulting is right for you. Work-life balance is extremely hard here. I don't know your condition, but even with 0 medical issues and being fit + eating heatlhy, consulting started to really destroy me physically (gaining weight, torn shoulder muscle and extreme pain that has taken 4 years to resolve, mental stress, etc.). It's not an easy job, and if you are already batting something please just reflect on the impact this will have on your health (It will have an impact). 

Please don't take this as me saying don't do consulting. Just reflect on what 70 hour weeks, weekly travel, the stress of millions/billions of dollars on the line, client and partner demands, etc. truly means

Yes 100%. I’ve worked with individuals at McKinsey that had medical needs and the team always ensured privacy as well as the ability to make sure they can take care of themselves and do a good job. Definitely disclose it. 

Playing tennis or strategy are very similar,simply do what you truly like and succeed and all good luck will be found. With caoahing you will find the answers