Pursue MBB while just starting at T2

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the great start of your consulting career!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

• First of all, considering you've just started at your current employer, I would advise you to at least complete a year there before making the leap to MBB. This experience will not only add weight to your resume but also provide insights into consulting, making your MBB application stronger.
• Moreover, applying to MBB only two weeks into your new job might send a wrong signal to your current employer, in case they might find out. While employment is a transactional relationship, trust and commitment are highly valued in consulting.
• Lastly, considering the current economic climate, it might be more strategic to build your profile with the experience you gain at your current employer and potentially by an MBA, and then target MBB.

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

Best,

Hagen

Making the decision to apply to MBB (McKinsey, Bain, and BCG) just two weeks into your new job at a T2 consulting firm is a significant choice, and it's important to carefully consider the implications and your long-term career goals. Here are some factors to weigh:

1. Timing: Applying to MBB shortly after starting a new job may raise concerns with your current employer. It's crucial to be discreet and handle the application process professionally to avoid any negative impressions. It's also worth noting that MBB firms typically have structured recruiting cycles, so you might need to wait until the next recruitment cycle to apply.
2. Qualifications and Fit: MBB firms are highly competitive, and they look for exceptional candidates with a strong track record of achievements. If you believe you already possess the qualifications and fit their profile, it may be worth considering applying. However, two weeks into a new role may not provide a sufficient track record to showcase your skills and impact.
3. Economic Conditions: You mentioned concerns about applying during uncertain economic conditions. While economic conditions can influence hiring, top consulting firms are known for their rigorous selection processes regardless of the economic climate. Ensure that you are well-prepared for the application process, as competition is likely to remain intense.
4. Long-Term Goals: Consider your long-term career goals. If working at MBB is a strong aspiration and aligns with your career objectives, pursuing that path sooner rather than later might make sense. However, if you're open to other possibilities, such as pursuing an MBA or gaining more experience at your current T2 firm, you might opt for a longer-term strategy.
5. Alternative Paths: Besides MBB, there are several paths to achieving your career goals. Staying at your current T2 firm and gaining experience can make you a more competitive candidate in the future. Pursuing an MBA from a top program is another viable route to MBB and can provide additional opportunities for career development.

Ultimately, the decision should align with your career aspirations, but it's important to be strategic and consider the timing and potential consequences. If you decide to apply to MBB, ensure that you can articulate a compelling reason for the move and demonstrate your qualifications and fit. If you choose to stay at your current job, focus on building a strong foundation of skills and experience that will make you a competitive candidate in the future, whether it's at MBB or another prestigious opportunity.

Hi there,

I'd like to share my perspective having started in a T2 firm, and then later making the successful transition to MBB. I left Kearney after ~3 years and then I stayed at BCG for ~6 years. 

I stayed at Kearney for that length because of a couple of reasons:

1. I felt that even though it was a T2 firm, it doesn't mean it is going to be easy and so I wanted to prove myself there first
2. I made some very good friends at work and that encouraged me to stay as well
3. My profile really struggled to get attention from some MBB firms given my unique background

Eventually, did well and wanted to test myself and see if i could ‘cut it’ at MBB, so I made the switch. But getting interviews after ~3 years was much easier for me. 

If your end goal is MBB, then you could argue that it's better to get there earlier than later. But I would urge you to try your best and apply yourself in your current role, because that will take 110% of your energy and capacity already. 

All the best!

Hi there,

You should probably focus (and appreciate/be grateful for) your new job!

Ever heard the Aesop fable of the dog with a steak who looks at its reflection in a river, lunges at “the other dog” to get its steak, and then drops its own steak in the river? It ends up with nothing.

Focus on this job. Succeed there first. Build up your network. Get promoted. Learn. Grow. Then, when the time is right, think about MBB.

Don't be Aesop's dog. 

Hi!

Does it make sense to bother and apply already when I am only 2 weeks into the job as a new graduate?

I strongly believe you should not bother applying to other firms at this stage of your employment. For one, the process of application and interview preparation takes up your mental energy and does not allow to fully concentrate on your current job. Also, you are correct that it may not be a good look if you try switching companies so early. MBB recruiters will wonder why you are trying to transition only after a few months after you've started. To them it may seem that you've been counselled out. Neither will such an early transition look good on your CV.

I suggest you work at your current company for at least a year, get a promotion and get some relevant experience that will look good on your CV. After that you can apply. 

Besides, starting at T2 is a great learning opportunity for you. So many newly-minted consultants get counselled out of the MBB because they are unable to perform there due to lacking the understanding of how to get ahead at the firm. If you make all your mistakes at T2 you will be better prepared for the MBB in the future.

Good luck with your consulting career,
Nick

 

2 weeks in is not a good time to apply to a new role. At this point you need to be 100% focused on learning about your job, taking on new responsibilities and being good at consulting. Interviewing for MBB will be a huge distraction at this stage and can lead to poor performance in your current role.

In 2-3 years time of good work experience, you will not only be a desirable candidate but will also be applying to MBB most likely when consulting demand will rise again setting you up nicely.

Hi there!

You don't have much to lose by just applying already. 

Application cycles can take several months. Plus, even if you get an offer, the starting data is also usually scheduled a few months later. So, basically, if you start now, with prep, interviewing and offer, it can actually mean that you'd start at MBB in around a year from now. 

Even if doesn't work out, at least you already tried now and learned from the experience. Then you could apply in a year from now and have higher chances. 

So go for it. 

Best,
Cristian

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Hi there,

Congratulations on your offer! In terms of your questions:

1) Does it make sense to bother and apply already when I am only 2 weeks into the job as a new graduate?

If you just joined, unless you find the current company is really not a match, I would wait a few months before applying, so that when you leave you have at least 6-12 months of experience on your CV. In the meantime, you can focus on doing well in your new role.

2) Additionally, I have the impression that hiring under the current economic conditions will be more selective. What is your take? Should I bother or should I continue working at the T2 and aim to get into a top MBA/move laterally in 1 or 2 years time.

It depends on how urgently you would like to move to MBB. As indicated in the first question, I would try to reach at least 6-12 months in seniority with your current role before switching.

Best,

Francesco

Hello,

It's great that you're considering your career options and planning ahead. Here are some insights on your situation:

Timing and Impression: Applying to MBB after just two weeks on the job might raise eyebrows with your current employer, and they might wonder about your long-term commitment. It's generally advisable to gain some experience and make a meaningful contribution to your current role before considering a move.

Selective Hiring: You're correct that MBB firms are often highly selective, and competition can be intense. They typically seek candidates with a bit more experience, usually in the range of 2-4 years for entry-level positions.

Career Path Considerations: Instead of rushing into applications, you might consider staying at your current firm for a year or two. This will allow you to build a strong foundation of skills and experience, making you a more attractive candidate when you decide to apply to MBB or pursue an MBA.

MBA Option: Going for a top MBA program can be an excellent path to MBB. With a couple of years of work experience under your belt and an MBA from a prestigious institution, you'll be a competitive candidate.

In summary, while it's good to have ambitious goals, it's essential to strike a balance between pursuing your dream career and building a solid professional foundation. Taking some time to gain experience and considering an MBA can be a strategic move. If you'd like more personalized advice or to discuss your career path further, feel free to reach out.

Warm regards,

Frederic