To move or not to move?

Big4 Lateral Hire
New answer on Apr 19, 2023
6 Answers
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Anonymous A asked on Apr 17, 2023

I’m conflicted, I have been at a Big 4 Deal Advisory team for some 9 months now, short while into my tenure, I’ve the boss that played a big part for me joining move to become a partner at another Big 4.  
 

Following that, my team has had some drama and for what matters to me, I’ve been on the bench for essentially 9 months. So I’m obviously not so happy. And I’m confident it’s not me that’s the problem (Let’s assume at least, can neve r be sure technically).

Ive had enough to be honest but I’m not sure how to time the move and what firm to move to. 
 

Should, I attempt a move laterally to my former boss‘ (who hired me), I like them and they’re the only person I’d move laterally. 

Should I attempt an “upgrade“ MBB, or other Advisory.

 

Or should I just wait while the market is down and keep the stability, as it’s probably the quickest way for me to get a promotion.

noting that my goal in 5 years time is to start doing my own thing, and if I we’re to be promoted where I’m at I would move instantly 

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Cristian
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replied on Apr 19, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach

Hi there, 

As you might expect, we can't give a straight answer because you need to decide what is best for yourself (I'm realising now that coaches are starting to sound a bit like ChatGPT :) ).

That aside, if you're having issues getting staffed within Big4, it's likely that you're going to have the same issue elsewhere. It's more of industry problem now and it will change. 

Yes, you could move and perhaps you could use this time of relative inactivity to sharpen your interview skills and go for a different firm (if you prefer MBB for instance.) Have a look at the following guide to see how you could best approach the recruitment process in the current economic climate:

Best,
Cristian

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Hagen
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updated an answer on Apr 17, 2023
#1 Bain coach | >95% success rate | interviewer for 8+ years | mentor and coach for 7+ years

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about your 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, I would highly advise you not to base your decision to remain with your current employer primarily on a potential promotion, especially since I think chances are low that you could get promoted without any proof of your performance.
  • Moreover, I would advise you to first reach out to people at your current employer to tell them about your situation and that you are questioning your career decision if you have not already done so.
  • If, eventually, you still want to apply elsewhere, I would highly advise you to apply anywhere you think you might be a great fit, even outside of the Big 4 companies. In order to make an informed decision about this, I would advise you to do the following:
    • Weigh the different criteria that are meaningful to you independently of the current options (e.g., prestige, culture, international exposure, compensation, location). After that, score the options based on your criteria and their weighting, resulting in separate scores. This way, you have covered the left-brain perspective.
    • Critically assess your initial reaction to the outcome of the scores. For instance, if you feel the urge to tweak the numbers, this is a solid indicator that you do not want this decision to become reality. This way, you have covered the right-brain perspective.
    • By doing so, you will be able to integrate both parts of the brain into the decision-making, guaranteeing a higher chance that you will still be happy with it years later.

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

(edited)

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Francesco
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replied on Apr 18, 2023
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Q: I’ve been on the bench for essentially 9 months. So I’m obviously not so happy. Should, I attempt a move laterally to my former boss‘ (who hired me), I like them and they’re the only person I’d move laterally. Should I attempt an “upgrade“ MBB, or other Advisory. Or should I just wait while the market is down and keep the stability.

There is nothing wrong with applying to other firms if you have been on the bench for so long and don’t see the opportunity to grow. 

The firms to target depend on your personal preference in terms of the company you want to start, so it is difficult to advise without further information. In most cases, MBB should open more doors though.

To check that in your particular area you can do the following:

  1. Look for alumni of the different companies on LinkedIn
  2. Check how many moved to your desired exit/industries in your region
  3. Normalize for the size of the companies in your region

If you decide to apply to other companies, I would recommend to look for referrals. You can find some tips in the article below:

▶ How to Get Interview Invitations in Consulting

Best,

Francesco

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Dennis
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Content Creator
replied on Apr 18, 2023
Ex-Roland Berger|Project Manager and Recruiter|7+ years of consulting experience in USA and Europe

Hi there,

time is too valuable to waste it on something you don't like. Granted, some things cannot be improved over night, but it is within your control to drive the change. 

Seems like you strongly dislike the status quo and yet one of the options you consider is to maintain that status quo. Be proactive, look around for other options. Nobody requires you to quit right now and cut off your cashflow, but you are ultimately responsible for shaping your own path and that does not mean having to stay put.

Best of luck

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Ian
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replied on Apr 18, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

I strongly recommend you apply to other firms.

Here's the thing, what do you have to lose? Nothing!

If you get an offer from MBB or another advisory, you can take it (or negotiate). If you don't, well, now you know.

Since you're on the bench, you have the time available to try.

Update your resume, get networking, and get applying!

Good luck!

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Pedro
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replied on Apr 18, 2023
30% off in March 2024 | Bain | EY-Parthenon | Roland Berger | Market Sizing | DARDEN MBA

I don't see how being on the bench for 9 months will get you promoted.

Honestly, all of the other options sould better than staying. If it is MBB, or follow the partner, or something else, I can't really tell.

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Anonymous A on Apr 18, 2023

I understand why I wouldn’t be in good standing for a promotion with 9 months on the bench, I just say it because my class of associates have also been through the same thing essentially.. so we’re at equal footing

Anonymous A on Apr 18, 2023

Additionally, to clarify, I don't expect to be promoted now, I am just curious if it would delay a 2 year mark ish promotion, which the department claims should be around that time still

Cristian gave the best answer

Cristian

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