Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Interview Partners to connect and practice with!
Back to overview

Should I focus or generalise my projects as entry level MBB consultant?

Hi everyone!

In a few weeks I will start at MBB as an entry level consultant and I'm very excited! :)

I'm wondering now, though, whether I should pick different type of projects or focus on a specific industry for example automotive which interests me a lot. While I want to consider my personal interests, I'm also concerned which strategy will help me more for my future career and potential exit options. What is your advice or what would you do?

3
5.2k
26
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
on Sep 24, 2017
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Anonymous,

as an entry level, you cannot normally specialize on specific sectors only in MBB; they will instead allocate you to different projects till project leader (BCG) /engagement manager (McK) levels, according to the needs of the firm. Having said that, you can express your interests for a specific sector, and, everything equal, they will try to put you on that particular project. Whether you express your interest or not, you will never just focus on a sector at the beginning; I would suggest thus to give your preference, as you would not risk anyway to specialize too much too early.

Hope this helps,

Francesco

Vlad
Coach
edited on Sep 26, 2017
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

In McKinsey chances are high that you'll have an opportunity to specialize early on. Though you will definitely specialize in a manager role

Pros of specialization:

  • You'll start your specialization earlier
  • You will build relationships with clients/partners
  • Potentially faster growth

Cons of specialization:

  • It will be harder to get staffed on other projects (lack of expertise)
  • If someone in a promotion committee will not be sure about your case, they may ask you to work with a different team and get more various feedbacks

Best,

Vlad

Deleted user
on Sep 24, 2017

Hi,

There are tradeoffs and it really depends on what you're looking to get out of the experience long term. Going the generalist path would give you a broder exposure and is more transferrable to various roles/industries. Whereas if you are set on specialising in automotive, within your MBB firm on in industry, specialising will build your knowledge expertise and reputation on the subject and helps you with quicker promotions, etc.

At the end of the day, there is no wrong path. Your attitude will really help you succeed. All the best!

1
Similar Questions
Consulting
Do consultants use AI for PowerPoint or excel or anywhere in the Process??
on Aug 24, 2024
Global
7
2.4k
Top answer by
Nilay
Coach
Former McKinsey Sr Engagement Manager | Trained McKinsey interviewer (100+ interviews, 500+ coaching sessions)
50
7 Answers
2.4k Views
+4
Consulting
MBB Internship: Is less work better?
on May 09, 2025
Global
8
200+
Top answer by
1st session -50% | Ex-McKinsey| Offical McKinsey Case Coach | +250 coaching sessions
15
8 Answers
200+ Views
+5
Consulting
Can I apply to two different positions at McKinsey one after another?
on Jun 11, 2024
Global
7
2.0k
Top answer by
Yousef
Coach
I make it easy for you to master case interviews! (ex-McKinsey |Stanford University | Imperial College London | ex-P&G)
35
7 Answers
2.0k Views
+4
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely
Thanks for your feedback! Your opinion helps us make PrepLounge even better.