Negotiating start date at MBB?

Hi there,

Nice work and well done!

Yes, sure you can do that. Here’s how I would do it:

• Ask for a phone call with the recruiter as this is best done in person
• Lead by saying that you are absolutely wanting to join their firm > other firm as this must be super clear from the beginning
• Present the facts and the pressure you’re under e.g. bridging a 1yr gap financially
• Ask for an earlier start date with a specific proposal in mind that you could actually live with
• If they push back, try and stay firm and start negotiating e.g. move away a little from your proposed target towards their target

It may be hard asking for something with firmness and staying but so long as you‘re maintaining a positive attitude you will be fine.

Hope this helps. Best of luck!

Moritz

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Hi!

Wow, that's a nice problem to have. Congrats!

Yes, you can try to use that as part of the negotiations. But make sure that you phrase as you having some needs, call them X, and because of these needs you need to start earlier, and you prefer to start with them, but because of need X you might have to start with their competitior who is offering an earlier start date. What do they think they could do to accommodate for that?

If this doesn't work, then you just need to choose one of them. Honestly - I know this might sound strange - but don't rush to start working. You'll work your brains out once you're there, so if you have the potential of one year of vacation until you start an amazing job, then make sure this is the most fun year of your life. It's an opportunity, not a curse. 

And since you're about to become a fresh consultant, sharing with you two guides with tips on how to become distinctive in your first year:

• Expert Guide: How to Become A Distinctive Consultant
• Expert Guide: How to Manage for Lifestyle in Consulting

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

Congratulations on the MBB offers! In terms of your questions:

1) Can I negotiate the start date with the first firm using the second offer as leverage (to push up the start date as soon as possible)? 

Yes, you can try, nothing wrong with that if you do so tactfully.

2) Should I expect a positive outcome from such a negotiation? 

Really difficult to say as there are multiple factors involved. It might or might not work.

3) Any tips on how to navigate it?

I would recommend to consider the following steps:

1. Call HR
2. Explain you would like to join them and that they are your first choice
3. Explain you would need their help as you have the need to start earlier. You also received an offer from a direct competitor in line with that, so you find yourself in a difficult situation
4. Reiterate that they are your first choice and for this reason would like to know if there is an option to join earlier
5. If they don’t agree to start in the same period as Firm #2, check if there is an intermediate date in between that might work
6. If they still don’t agree, you will have to decide between the two firms based on how important is for you to start earlier

Good luck!

Francesco

Hello,

Congratulations on securing offers from two prestigious firms! Negotiating a start date is a reasonable consideration, and here are some tips to navigate this situation:

Express Your Enthusiasm: Communicate your excitement about joining the preferred firm and your eagerness to contribute. Make it clear that your preference for an earlier start date is driven by your passion for the role and the desire to make an immediate impact.

Highlight the Second Offer: Politely mention the competing offer with the sooner start date. Emphasize your need to make an informed decision and express that a more immediate start date would greatly influence your choice.

Frame It as a Win-Win: Position the negotiation as a win-win scenario. Assure them that starting sooner aligns with your career goals while benefitting the firm by having you onboard and contributing sooner.

Consider Firm Policies: Be aware of the policies and norms of each firm regarding start dates. Some firms may have more flexibility than others, and understanding this context can help in framing your request.

Be Flexible: While expressing your preference for an earlier start date, show flexibility. Mention that you understand the complexities of the onboarding process and are willing to discuss and find a mutually agreeable compromise.

Here a possible E-mail template you can leverage (it's GPT generated, but good starting point): 

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I trust this message finds you well. I am writing to express my immense gratitude for extending the offer to join [Preferred Firm] as a [Your Position]. I am thrilled at the prospect of contributing to the team and being part of the exciting work ahead.

Upon careful consideration, I have a small inquiry regarding the proposed start date. Given my eagerness to dive into the challenges and opportunities at [Preferred Firm], I was wondering if there might be any flexibility in adjusting the start date.

I recently received another offer with a more immediate start date, and while [Preferred Firm] remains my top choice, an earlier start date would greatly influence my decision. I want to assure you of my commitment to a seamless onboarding process and my dedication to making a positive impact from day one.

I understand that the onboarding process involves various considerations, and I am more than willing to discuss any potential constraints or requirements to find a mutually agreeable solution. My goal is to align my enthusiasm for the role with the needs and processes of [Preferred Firm].

I greatly appreciate your understanding and am open to further discussion on this matter. Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the success of [Preferred Firm].

Best regards,

[Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information] [Your LinkedIn Profile, if applicable] 

Best of luck with your negotiation!

Warm regards, Frederic 

Hi there,

Congratulations on an amazing haul!

You absolutely can negotiate a start date. And yes, if worded properly you can leverage the 2nd offer. Please be careful in HOW you word this AND your mode of communication (email, call, etc.)

As in, word it as more of an FYI and provide a reason for wanting to change the date. Offer flexibility as well (as in, don't “demand”).

Definitely also make sure to negotiate the compensation for your offers as well! Consider hiring a coach to help you navigate this tricky process and ensure this positive outcome. Happy to help you craft your exact ask AND prepare for their counters.

Congratulations on receiving two MBB offers! Negotiating the start date with your preferred firm is a reasonable request, especially if the offered start date is not aligned with your desired timeline. While leveraging the second offer can be a useful negotiation tactic, it's important to approach the conversation professionally and tactfully.

Here are some tips to navigate the negotiation process:

Express your enthusiasm: Begin the conversation by expressing your excitement and genuine interest in joining the preferred firm. Emphasize your strong alignment with their values, culture, and the opportunities they offer.

Highlight your timeline constraints: Clearly communicate your reasons for needing an earlier start date. Explain any personal or professional commitments that make it challenging for you to wait for a year. Be transparent about your availability and willingness to start as soon as possible.

Leverage the second offer strategically: Mention that you have received another offer with a more immediate start date. While you don't want to come across as threatening, it can be helpful to let the preferred firm know that you have a viable alternative. This can create a sense of urgency and demonstrate your value as a candidate.

Propose a reasonable alternative: Suggest a specific start date that aligns with your availability and is earlier than the initially offered date. Make sure to provide a compelling rationale for your proposed start date, such as the need to avoid a gap in employment or to capitalize on a specific opportunity.

Maintain professionalism and flexibility: Throughout the negotiation process, it's crucial to remain professional, respectful, and open to finding a mutually beneficial solution. Be prepared for the possibility that the preferred firm may not be able to accommodate your requested start date due to their internal processes or client commitments.

Remember, negotiation is a two-way street. While you have the right to advocate for your needs, the firm also has its own considerations. Be prepared to listen and understand their perspective. Ultimately, the outcome will depend on various factors, including the firm's current staffing needs and their willingness to accommodate your request.

I wish you the best of luck in your negotiation process and your future career with the MBB firm of your choice!

Hi there,

Yes, you can try to negotiate an earlier start date on the firm you prefer. I suggest you:

• Call your recruiting contact
• Ask to advance the start date
• Insist you are really interested in working with them and leverage the offer you have from the other firm
• Decide in advance what you would do if they refuse to advance the start date

Good luck!

Alberto

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