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Consulting Question
How can I become a consultant, I want to break into MBB but don't know how!
12 answers
Updated
Christos’s Answer
Consulting is a very interesting and dynamic industry. McKinsey, BCG and Bain are among the world's top (if not the top) consulting firms. Breaking into them sometimes may seem difficult and frustrating, but it is not impossible.
Experience
• Education: 1. Strong Academic Performance, 2. University Reputation, 3. Subject (Not only business majors)
• Work Experience: 1. Internships (corporate, consulting, start-up, banking)
• Extra-Curriculars: 1. Volunteering, 2. Certifications
• Honors & Awards: 1. Dean’s List, 2. Scholarships
Application
• CV: 1. One Page, 2. Use the STAR Method, 3. Quantify your Work Experience, 4. Sections: Education, Work Experience, Extra Curricular Activities, Honors and Awards, Other Qualifications
• Cover Letter: 1. Why this firm, 2. Motivations
Interview Performance
• First Interview: 1. Soft Skills and Introducing Questions
• Case Interview: 1. Study online Case Interviews
• Experience Interview (If applicable): 1. Stories about your experience, 2. A lot of details and follow-up questions.
Some extra points that will boost your overall application will be:
• Career Fairs with MBB (Can use it in the cover letter)
• Create a University Club (or be a part of one)!
• Volunteer (Online or On-Site)
If you would like more information on how to break into MBB consulting a great YouTube channel is Firm Learning.
Experience
• Education: 1. Strong Academic Performance, 2. University Reputation, 3. Subject (Not only business majors)
• Work Experience: 1. Internships (corporate, consulting, start-up, banking)
• Extra-Curriculars: 1. Volunteering, 2. Certifications
• Honors & Awards: 1. Dean’s List, 2. Scholarships
Application
• CV: 1. One Page, 2. Use the STAR Method, 3. Quantify your Work Experience, 4. Sections: Education, Work Experience, Extra Curricular Activities, Honors and Awards, Other Qualifications
• Cover Letter: 1. Why this firm, 2. Motivations
Interview Performance
• First Interview: 1. Soft Skills and Introducing Questions
• Case Interview: 1. Study online Case Interviews
• Experience Interview (If applicable): 1. Stories about your experience, 2. A lot of details and follow-up questions.
Some extra points that will boost your overall application will be:
• Career Fairs with MBB (Can use it in the cover letter)
• Create a University Club (or be a part of one)!
• Volunteer (Online or On-Site)
If you would like more information on how to break into MBB consulting a great YouTube channel is Firm Learning.
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Hi J,
During my interviewing experience, two key factors help me stand out from other applicants for an entry level position out of college:
I found having previous relevant work experience helped me have talking points during events consulting firms had on campus. During my Junior year, I found an internship that aligned with the skills and background commonly looked for in the consulting space (project management, data analysis, ect). You could also look opportunities on campus to develop these skills such as joining a consulting club.
Networking is also key. Many business will hold resume reviews, coffee hours, or information sessions where you can start meeting actual recruiters and current employees. You can start building connections here and learn more about the opportunities the business will be recruiting for on campus. This is also a great way to learn about the company and its culture.
During my interviewing experience, two key factors help me stand out from other applicants for an entry level position out of college:
I found having previous relevant work experience helped me have talking points during events consulting firms had on campus. During my Junior year, I found an internship that aligned with the skills and background commonly looked for in the consulting space (project management, data analysis, ect). You could also look opportunities on campus to develop these skills such as joining a consulting club.
Networking is also key. Many business will hold resume reviews, coffee hours, or information sessions where you can start meeting actual recruiters and current employees. You can start building connections here and learn more about the opportunities the business will be recruiting for on campus. This is also a great way to learn about the company and its culture.
Updated
Richard’s Answer
I would consult with your college's career office and see if there are any schools who recruit on your campus who you could be connected to (even if you're not currently a student). If they do great make connections and see if they're interested in hiring. If not, then your best way in would be to get into business school. Unfortunately, many of these firms are so large and there are so many people who apply that it is really hard to get a job without having a recruiting "in" and while you might get lucky, its hard to really suggest that as a strategy. Once you figure out who your recuriter is, go to recruiting events, meet some team members, and apply. If they like you you'll likely get a few interviews.
Once you get that interview I would suggest reading case in point or watching victor cheng's youtube videos and/or subscribing to rocket blocks. Consulting firms more than others really prioritize the interview over most everything so the best thing you can do (obviously once you get the interview) is to really ace it.
Once you get that interview I would suggest reading case in point or watching victor cheng's youtube videos and/or subscribing to rocket blocks. Consulting firms more than others really prioritize the interview over most everything so the best thing you can do (obviously once you get the interview) is to really ace it.
Updated
Vatsala’s Answer
Great question! MBB is a great goal to strive towards, and there are also a lot of other consulting firms out there that will provide endless opportunities for you (Big 4, Oliver Wyman, etc.)
If you're currently in college, I would suggest looking for a consulting club in school. Many colleges and universities have consulting clubs (e.g., Columbia's Undergraduate Consulting Club). These clubs aim to expose students to skill sets and opportunities in consulting. The consulting clubs may offer informational events, case study workshops, networking opportunities and active projects in consulting, all of which are invaluable in understanding if you like consulting and finding entry points into consulting post-grad.
Alternatively, you can also seek out consulting competitions offered by consulting firms. These competitions are a great way for you to flex your consulting skill sets and meet industry professionals to network with. For example, Deloitte runs a National Consulting Undergraduate Case Competition and many other companies have similar programs as well.
Lastly, I would highly recommend networking with consultants working in the spaces that you're interested in so you can build your network. Consulting is a very expansive field that extends to human capital, IT, digital transformation, and strategy. Do you research on which areas in consulting interests you the most and then use LinkedIn to find alumni from your school who work in this field.
Lastly, frequently check on internship job postings from MBB and other consulting firms. The best thing you can do is get started with an internship to build relationships in your target firm. This will go a long way in building a network that can help refer you to opportunities in MBB.
If you're currently in college, I would suggest looking for a consulting club in school. Many colleges and universities have consulting clubs (e.g., Columbia's Undergraduate Consulting Club). These clubs aim to expose students to skill sets and opportunities in consulting. The consulting clubs may offer informational events, case study workshops, networking opportunities and active projects in consulting, all of which are invaluable in understanding if you like consulting and finding entry points into consulting post-grad.
Alternatively, you can also seek out consulting competitions offered by consulting firms. These competitions are a great way for you to flex your consulting skill sets and meet industry professionals to network with. For example, Deloitte runs a National Consulting Undergraduate Case Competition and many other companies have similar programs as well.
Lastly, I would highly recommend networking with consultants working in the spaces that you're interested in so you can build your network. Consulting is a very expansive field that extends to human capital, IT, digital transformation, and strategy. Do you research on which areas in consulting interests you the most and then use LinkedIn to find alumni from your school who work in this field.
Lastly, frequently check on internship job postings from MBB and other consulting firms. The best thing you can do is get started with an internship to build relationships in your target firm. This will go a long way in building a network that can help refer you to opportunities in MBB.
Updated
Connor’s Answer
In addition to what everyone has said here, I would also ask yourself WHY you want to work for an MBB (other than the prestige, salary, status, etc). I always wanted to strive to work for a McKinsey, Bain or BCG, and found myself elsewhere because I realized I didn't quite have the capacity to be working around the clock and always be on call... but I guess that's with any consulting firm isn't it!
Updated
Jesse’s Answer
I see there are some great answers here! The best things you can do to break into MBB/other good consulting firms is to get involved with any consulting-esque/advisory-related activities to make sure consulting is actually something you want to do. Assuming that it is, the next step would be to go to career fairs and try to find consulting firms' booths, have an authentic conversation and build a relationship. If you can maintain that relationship over time, it can be supuer helpful in breaking into any level consulting firm.
That being said, MBB should not be the only goal! They are great firms, but there are other amazing consulting firms as well (some are very well known in specific areas).
That being said, MBB should not be the only goal! They are great firms, but there are other amazing consulting firms as well (some are very well known in specific areas).
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Going to business school will be a natural step to break into consulting if you don't have any business experience or background. If you are still in undergraduate, I would aim to 1. network with consulting alumnis (i.e., leverage linkedin) to understand the job and the company more. While consulting is a broad term, the day to day work depending on which firm and what team you are in can vary and require different skills. 2. Focus on finding relevant internship experiences in either strategy, advisory or consulting setting. You can try to look through your universities career website to see if there are relevant roles. Consulting is very broad so any experience where you were able to tackle a problem through i.e., data analysis, stakeholder alignment, etc. can help with your resume. MBBs are the top tier strategy consulting firms, but like previous comments there are other great consulting firms out there as well. Good luck!
Updated
J.P.’s Answer
Hi!
I'm going to give a recommendation assuming you either don't have anyone, or have exhausted your current connections for people in consulting (start there if you haven't). After that, I would scour the career fairs in your area, and start applying. Keep in mind that aside from Business Schools, consulting firms like to hire for consulting experience. Start small if you have to - getting a foot in the door is critical! Finally, try offering family and friends some free (or paid, if you can swing it) consulting hours in a field where you can add value. Even if it is something small, you can use this to pad your resume, or have stories to discuss during interviews. Good luck!
I'm going to give a recommendation assuming you either don't have anyone, or have exhausted your current connections for people in consulting (start there if you haven't). After that, I would scour the career fairs in your area, and start applying. Keep in mind that aside from Business Schools, consulting firms like to hire for consulting experience. Start small if you have to - getting a foot in the door is critical! Finally, try offering family and friends some free (or paid, if you can swing it) consulting hours in a field where you can add value. Even if it is something small, you can use this to pad your resume, or have stories to discuss during interviews. Good luck!
Updated
Sirlei’s Answer
Hello j G.,
According to Cleverism, big consulting firms such as MBB, tend to only hire from the top business schools.
Per the article "in order to get hired at the MBB, you need to have an excellent academic record from a prestigious school, you need to have been exposed to a wide range of activities, both academic and co-curricular, you need excellent communication skills, analytical capabilities, and you need to have interest in many areas."
I believe that you need to just apply yourself and make your resume as polished and appealing as possible and give it a try!
I hope this helps.
Best of luck!
Sirlei
According to Cleverism, big consulting firms such as MBB, tend to only hire from the top business schools.
Per the article "in order to get hired at the MBB, you need to have an excellent academic record from a prestigious school, you need to have been exposed to a wide range of activities, both academic and co-curricular, you need excellent communication skills, analytical capabilities, and you need to have interest in many areas."
I believe that you need to just apply yourself and make your resume as polished and appealing as possible and give it a try!
I hope this helps.
Best of luck!
Sirlei
Updated
Brian’s Answer
When I was going to college, the SBA (small business administration) offered a volunteer opportunity to get involved with consulting projects for small, local businesses. I worked on two such projects and I feel it differentiated my resume from others, so looking for opportunities to differentiate yourself and prove your interest is always a worthwhile investment.
Updated
Max’s Answer
Hi J!
In terms of how to become a consultant, since you're a student, I would suggest attending school career fairs in order to meet and form a relationship with company recruiters. This is a great way to get your foot in the door, learn about consulting, and show that you're interested. You should go onto company websites and look into any potential internship opportunities as well, as many full time hires come from company internship programs. I would also suggest reading through (on the company website) all the different practices a company has and the industries they work in. This would be a great way to gain a background into the different types of consulting and narrow down what you're looking for. This will also demonstrate further interest to the recruiter, and show that you're being proactive into what you're looking for. Also make sure to attend any on-campus events for that company, as just another way to show interest.
In terms of how to become a consultant, since you're a student, I would suggest attending school career fairs in order to meet and form a relationship with company recruiters. This is a great way to get your foot in the door, learn about consulting, and show that you're interested. You should go onto company websites and look into any potential internship opportunities as well, as many full time hires come from company internship programs. I would also suggest reading through (on the company website) all the different practices a company has and the industries they work in. This would be a great way to gain a background into the different types of consulting and narrow down what you're looking for. This will also demonstrate further interest to the recruiter, and show that you're being proactive into what you're looking for. Also make sure to attend any on-campus events for that company, as just another way to show interest.
Updated
Jerel’s Answer
Hi there! It's great to hear that you're interested in becoming a consultant, and that you're specifically interested in breaking into MBB (McKinsey, Bain, and Boston Consulting Group). Consulting can be a very rewarding and challenging career path, but it can also be difficult to break into, especially at top firms like MBB. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Get relevant education and experience: Many consulting firms, including MBB, prefer to hire candidates with strong academic backgrounds and relevant work experience. Consider pursuing a degree in a relevant field like business or economics, and look for internships or other opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the industry.
Build relevant skills and experience: Consulting firms look for candidates with strong problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as experience working in teams and managing projects. Look for opportunities to gain these skills, whether it's through internships, extracurricular activities, or coursework.
Network: Networking is key in the consulting industry. Reach out to alumni, attend career fairs, and connect with professionals in the industry through LinkedIn and other social media. You can also attend information sessions and other events hosted by consulting firms to learn more about the industry and make connections.
Prepare for case interviews: Case interviews are a key part of the consulting recruitment process, and they can be challenging. Consider practicing with case interview books, online resources, or with a mentor or coach who can give you feedback and help you improve.
Apply strategically: Finally, when applying for consulting roles, be strategic in your approach. Focus on firms and roles that align with your skills and interests, and tailor your application materials to each specific opportunity.
Breaking into MBB can be challenging, but with the right preparation and strategy, it's definitely achievable. Good luck with your consulting career!
Get relevant education and experience: Many consulting firms, including MBB, prefer to hire candidates with strong academic backgrounds and relevant work experience. Consider pursuing a degree in a relevant field like business or economics, and look for internships or other opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the industry.
Build relevant skills and experience: Consulting firms look for candidates with strong problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as experience working in teams and managing projects. Look for opportunities to gain these skills, whether it's through internships, extracurricular activities, or coursework.
Network: Networking is key in the consulting industry. Reach out to alumni, attend career fairs, and connect with professionals in the industry through LinkedIn and other social media. You can also attend information sessions and other events hosted by consulting firms to learn more about the industry and make connections.
Prepare for case interviews: Case interviews are a key part of the consulting recruitment process, and they can be challenging. Consider practicing with case interview books, online resources, or with a mentor or coach who can give you feedback and help you improve.
Apply strategically: Finally, when applying for consulting roles, be strategic in your approach. Focus on firms and roles that align with your skills and interests, and tailor your application materials to each specific opportunity.
Breaking into MBB can be challenging, but with the right preparation and strategy, it's definitely achievable. Good luck with your consulting career!
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