`Which other firms are you interviewing with´?

Question

Dear all,

I am interviewing with MBB in a Western European country for entry-level positions. When scheduling my interviews (first rounds and also recently with second rounds), recruiters of all firms asked me whether I was also interviewing with other firms and with which ones.

I was wondering why they ask this? I answered honestly, but I am not sure if this was the 'smart' thing to do?

Many thanks!

Answer 1

Hello there,

There are 2 underlying insights that the recruiters might want to look from the question.

First, how driven is the prospective candidate in striving to become a consultant.
Consulting is a very competitive sector, hence interviewing with multiple firms to increase your chances of entering the field is to be expected, if one is driven to find an opportunity.

There is no fault in stating that you are interviewing with multiple firms from this perspective, as it illustrates your tenacity and showcase the capability to multi-task.

Second, the candidate's ability to keep confidentiality.under wraps.
Confidentiality is the bread and butter of consulting industry. Especialy within MBB, it is the first thing that will be taught to you during the orientation sessions.

While typically this does not evaluated for entry-level position, it is something that might differentiate a distinct candidate. With lateral hires, it is something that idally needs to be showcased.

As such, the ideal answer is stating that you are interviewing with multiple firms, throwing descriptors of these firms, while avoiding to stating the name.

This is generally a similar way consultants state their experiences serving specific projects throghout their tenures, as stating the companies' names are prohibited, as it going against a consultant's professional ethics.

Again, there's no fault in stating the names. You could further differentiate yourself by utilizing the above methods.

Hope it helps.

Kind regards,
Nathan

Answer 2

Hi,
I confirm the recommendation to mention it. It shows your strong interest in consulting and it is a chance to speed up the process (especially if you already got some offers).

Best,
Anto

Answer 3

Hi,

I recommend saying - "I've made a rational decision to interview with the top consulting companies to mitigate my risk and fulfill my dream of working in consulting. However, Company M is the top priority for me because..."

Best

Answer 4

Hi Anonymous,

this question is usually a way to see if you are focused on the consulting sector. It is totally fine to mention you are interviewing with other consulting firms. As mentioned by Nathaniel, I would avoid to mention the exact names if possible, in particular if you are interviewing with firms not considered at the same level of the company you are targeting (an MBB company will take you more in consideration if they know you are interviewing with another MBB instead of a second or third-tier).

Best,

Francesco

Answer 5

From my experience, it would be best if you can apply early if you can already do your case prep. If you start now yo... (read entire answer)

From my experience, it would be best if you can apply early if you can already do your case prep. If you start now you could be ready by the time they invite you to interviews.B... (read entire answer)