Switching from Tier 1 to Tier 2 firm

Question

Hi,

I am not enjoying my consulting experience at Tier 2 firm and consider switching to a Tier 3 firm hoping the path there would be a bit easier. Disclaimer: This firm overall doesn't have a strong brand in strategy consulting but is ok positioned in the industry I am focused on. I also have a personal contact there who is willing to put me in touch with a Partner.

How should I best position my motivation to switch without raising concerns during the interviews?

Answer 1

Hi,

If we take a step back, the key potential concern a recruiter would have is whether you are leaving because you are a poor performer.

I always believe it is best to be authentic, which comes from being honest (smartly). If I were you, I'd think hard about what makes the Tier 3 firm a better fit/vision/path for you and craft a strong story around that.

Do note that it doesn't necessarily mean its ‘easier’, rather there will be unique challenges even at the Tier 3 firm.

Happy to share my experience having both worked at T1/T2 firms of different sizes - just dm me.

Answer 2

Hey,

One of my students switched from an MBB to a Tier2 firm in the Middle East. He did that because he didn't want to do public sector projects which the MBB firm specialised in, but the oil&gas projects, which was the Tier2 company's main focus in the region (he also had oil&gas experience prior to working at an MBB).

When explaining your motivation to an interviewer, make sure you provide a non-generic reason which is relevant to your career path specifically. An example could be:

- Willingness to try out a different industry that a Tier3 company specialises in;
- Faster career growth prospects, e.g. if you're an Associate in Tier2 company you can be hired as an Engagement Manager in a Tier3 company;
- Desire to relocate geographically;
- Having a better work-life balance (though I would advise being cautious with your wording here, not to come across as lazy or unmotivated).

Hope this helps and good luck with your transition,
Nick

Answer 3

Hi there,

Really sorry to hear about this.

First, if you're struggling, please read my consulting survival guide.

Second, my fear right now is that you're switching for the wrong reasons. You need to identify what is wrong with the tier 2 firm and what would be better about tier 3.

HOPE is a bad reason to make a fundamental shift in your career. Rather, plan and research.

You need to figure out whether:

Consulting itself isn't right for you - in which case a switch WON'T help
Consulting itself is hard and consulting is what you're struggling with, but if you learn the tricks of the trade you will be better - in which case a switch WON'T help
This Tier 2 firm is abusive (bad managers), has bad projects, etc BUT the Tier 3 firm is the same - in which case a switch WON'T help
This Tier 2 firm is abusive (bad managers), has bad projects, etc BUT the Tier 3 firm will be different - in which case a switch WILL help

^In 3 out of the 4 scenarios a switch won't help.

Please be careful in thinking all your problems will be solved by switching (they might…but my guess is there is a problem that you yourself need to fix/address)

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In interviews, highlight the good of the current firm. Emphasize what you have learned, what you like about consulting etc.

Then, pivot to what you like about new firm that is different to current firm (this could be types of projects, culture, etc.). It has to be true + believable.

Answer 4

Hi there!

It's totally ok to make this switch, but it's difficult to help you without understanding WHY you're not currently enjoying your time in Tier 2.

I would start from those reasons and then figure out how to best package them. That should make the bulk of the motivation for the switch that should then be presented in the cover letter.

Best,
Cristian

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