Transition to MBB for a generalist role

1. Is it possible that I apply to MBB firms for a generalist consulting role? If I apply in October 2020 for a position in September/October 2021, then I will have around 1 year of experience before starting the job with the MBB firm.

Yes of course, MBB consulting firms have a very generalist model and after 1 year of experience you will not be considered specialized yet, so no problem in my opinion!

2. Is there any possiblity that I could get some sort of a fast-track role? I understand that I cannot get the role of an Associate in McKinsey/SAC at Bain/Consultant at BCG, but can I negotiate with the HR at the time of hiring for a faster promotion to the next level?

Negotiating the fast track does not seem to me to be a possible option. The fast track is only due to the performance within the firm. On the other hand, you can try to apply for the 2nd grade (eg senior associate vs. associate at BCG) but this does not seem easy (generally you are downgraded by 1 position when you move for a T2 to T1). This is a discussion you should have with HR.

3. Is this sort of fastrack process more possible in another office like Dubai, instead of London? (Only because the process is very structured in the UK)

I don't have this answer :)

Hi there,

1) It is very much possible - you would need to have the right CV (good educational background + good professional performance + CV tailored to consulting recruiters) - However, maybe consider spending a bit more time in your current industry to have enough time to prove your good professional track record.

2) You cannot negotiate a fast track role - it is very meritocratic, if you deserve a fast track, you will get it.

3) McK HR in Dubai is very abiding to their processes - Only a handful of consultants (out of their 400+ office) get fast-tracked each cycle.

I would encourage you to think again about why you are already fed-up with the sector so quickly - Is it related to the type of the job? or the office culture? or something else ... If it is the type of job, then a consultant in tier-2 will do very similar tasks to a consultant in tier-1. It won't change much. Maybe a switch to MBB is not the most optimal solution.

I hope this helps

Khaled

Hi
1. yes, you definitely can be considered for a generalist position in MBB. However, in case of being considered for the inteake of Sep 21 I recommend applying after January
2. 3. No fast track once you enter with a specific role. In the phase of the applicatio - if you apply after 1 year of consulting - you can negotiate with HR the entry role, e.g. junior associate/senior business analyst (which is only 1 year distant from associate/consultant position)

Best,
Antonello

Dear A,

My short answer is

1. Yes, it's possible

2. Not really

3. No

Best,

André

Hi Anonymous,

1) Yes.

2) No, HR has no saying in that. But you can be faster to be promoted than the regular scheme and get more responsibility earlier.

3) No - see point 2 as well.

Hope that helps - if so, please be so kind and give it a thumbs-up with the green upvote button below!

Robert

Hello!

To your points:

1. Yes, totally!
2. Not really. 1 year is not enaugh, so for sure you will still apply for a BA position.
3. Not really

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

1. Yes, 100%! Just make sure you've shown good exposure, responsibilities, and progression!

2+3 forget about this. "Fast-track" is doing your job incredibly well, getting good reviews, and then getting promoted a bit early. It's also getting a bigger bonus because you performed better. Think of "fast-track" as already being built in.

(edited)

Hi there,

please find my answers below:

1. For sure. You are not likely to have developed strong industry experience anyway after only one year
2. Not really. You may be able to have some tenure compare to a new entrant, but you cannot negotiate fast track with your experience
3. I don't think so, given the issue is your previous experience, which being 1 year will be too limited for any kind of negotiation for promotions

Best,

Francesco