How does one get into consulting if you don’t have a solid connection in. I’m 26, got 4 years of strategic experience, an MBA, and I do as much networking as possible (I have had several referrals). I also had help on my resume multiple times to get it perfect for the industry, yet, I cannot get a single interview.

I completely understand that it’s a competitive industry and I am totally fine being patient, but just getting a chance to interview would be incredible. Any advice?

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Your best bet is big4 or boutique and then lateral up/in

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This is definitely the move, get into B4/Accenture, prove yourself in consulting there then move up to T2 or MBB if that’s your goal

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OCR during MBA? Even if you finished b-school, alumni is a good place to start

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Yeah, I applied to some positions during such but never got an interview then as well. I graduated during the pandemic, so there weren’t as many opportunities then.

Are you flexible on your entry point? Mbb might be a big stretch, as might tier 2 strategy. Big 4, Accenture, ibm/kyndryl would be reasonable entry points.

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Yes, very flexible and willing to start at the bottom as long as there are growth opportunities :)

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I’d recommend applying for positions you may feel over qualified for. I know folks who’ve transitioned to consulting or moved to “better” firms have sometimes had to take a lower title to get there. Since you don’t have consulting experience yet that can be a way to get your foot in the door

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Thanks!

Did you get your MBA immediately from undergrad? If so, that might actually be hurting you, not helping you

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Nope, I got it 2 years out. I did it over the pandemic, as I had the time due to being laid off.

helpful

Also, recommend paying attention to market trends. If there are more opportunities out there, you’ll probably have an easier time getting your foot in the door

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Lastly, you could look at getting an internal consulting role (e.g., industry consulting) and use that to pivot to true consulting after

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And time your applications well. Nov-Dec are bad. Feb-Apr are better.

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I would wait till Feb. By then, companies will have a better idea of the demand for consultants as refreshed corporate budgets should clear benches in January. With few ug/mba hires starting between Jan and July, hiring needs have to be filled by experienced hires.

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Where did you do your MBA?

Hmm yea this isn’t really a target school for a lot of consulting firms, so I wonder if this is what’s tripping you up..

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Alixpartners has some openings might fit you. Dm me if interested

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