If you were a first year MBA deciding on an internship/full time, which career path would you choose?

Bain Consulting - then pivot into FAANG strategy&ops in 3-4 years
Microsoft Product Marketing Manager (PMM) - then try to pivot into Product Management (PM) in 2 years

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Long term plans are useful, but never really materialize. I'd go straight to Product Management, if that's your objective.

like

I’m technical, I have been in other engineering functions but not in software yet. I can code tho. I’m positive I could be successful in either.

If you want to end up in tech, take the PMM offer, make the most of the internship, learn about the ecosystem and the company, and try transitioning to PM (or other roles) in a few years (some even network their way during the summer internship). Making the transition from consulting to PM, after already doing your MBA, is not impossible but would be more difficult IMO than trying to move within Microsoft. If you see value in doing consulting because you've never had that experience before, then definitely do it, but not because your goal is to be a PM in tech in the long term.

like

Couldn't put it any better! Great advice

like

Strategy and Ops is a very different role than PM or PMM. I'd push you to think about whether you like more project based, varied work where you check a box then move onto something different or whether you like an ongoing cadence with more routine and are focused on improving a single thing over a long time. Former is S&O, latter is PM. I can't speak to PMM.

I went Bain post MBA then exited to tech S&O. Have also seriously considered PM. Feel free to DM if you want to chat more specific questuons.

likehelpful

Thank you! I will pm u

I honestly love it at MSFT, despite what is a terrible tech market.

If your goal is a tech PM and you feel certain definitely take a PMM role over consulting. If you want to keep your options open and wanna grind for a few years go MBB

like

Used to work at msft in marketing so here’s me 2 cents. The PMM entry level roles at MSFT can be very hit or miss. Product marketing is definitely the place to be in MSFT but there’s a lot of roles that have the PMM title but aren’t true product marketing. So if you come through the MBA route, you’ll have to network hard for a true PM role and that’s not easy or even possible due to limited availability. Many people I know took the role for the title and then moved to another big tech role with true PM experience. That being said, I really enjoyed Microsoft as a company and think it’s a great place to build a career long term

If you’re looking for fast career growth though and more flexibility, go to consulting. But your hours will be twice as long and unless you focus on marketing, it will also be tough to break back into PMM

like

It’ll also be a lot easier to pivot from Bain to strategy and ops than PMM to product manager - one is a clear pathway and the other requires networking as well as technical experience

like

I would start my own business.

funny

Super insightful!!!

I am in tech strategy consulting at EYP, a few years out of business school, and I’ve basically given up hope of becoming a PM. If you want to be a PM, take the Microsoft PMM role.

helpful

I do not have any consulting experience. 5 YOE in operations for industrials/chemicals.

I love Microsoft as a company to work for and am definitely a techie, but I love the development/progression that I'd get at Bain. I am having a lot of trouble deciding which way I want my life to go.

I currently work for Microsoft. The benefits are phenomenal, the people are great, solid culture, pay isn’t bad, and my leadership have been great so far.

like

Msft probably

PMM if your goal is tech

Consulting to tech usually leads to good outcomes. Have observed some peer getting stellar exits to tech, even recently. Pricing, efficiency, CDD experience is valued in the market right now.

Related Posts

What are my chances of getting into APM programs at companies like Meta and Uber as a student from a non-CS background and little experience?

Currently working on my MS Finance degree, graduating in December. Working on my resume and was wondering if I should include a projects section (which would be projects/assignments from classes)?

I don’t have much experience as I went into grad school right after undergrad (graduated December 2021).

like

What are M7 MBB recruiting timelines ? Considering applying right now to MBB, but if I get rejected I’m going to do an MBA, will I be blacklisted from applying for summer internships if I get rejected this fall ?

Hey IBMers/ex-IBMers,

What is the designation hierarchy in IBM GBS for someone joining as "Advisory Technical Services Specialist" at "7A" band?

Like I would like to know what will be the next designation/band once for me if I get promoted?

YOE: 6 yrs.
Tech Stack: Testing

Thank you in advance!

Hello, I’m a Physical Therapist (DPT) and am considering going back to school for my MBA. I’m hoping to pivot out of patient care and into a more corporate/leadership role. Is there anyone here with a similar background? Any insights as far as opportunities an MBA could afford for someone like myself? Thank you

likeuplifting

Okay so, its been a while since I've been seeing this in Linkedin:
The Job requirement says its Entry Level, but the experience it requires is always 6 year+... like how would a fresher match that.. should I've started coding at 6th grade or what?

I understand that it's a way of "SEO" in LinkedIn but it just discourages us freshies.

Actually not sure if this post belongs in this bowl but.. it is what it is?
P.s. I still apply to these because what's the worst that could happen... right?

Im a third year and my current firm isn't bad and I'm pretty comfortable here. Im satisfied most of the time. There is one firm I've been keeping my eyes on because of its similarities to where I currently am (nice people, similar hours, culture).

Im a bit burned out now and I would love to take a long break. I'm hoping I can take a break (2 months) between the transition but is this a good reason to move though? Would you move in my situation? Im sure there will be a signing bonus.

like

This is a disaster. We must have some measures to ensure safety, but to guilt people into staying on the government cheese, no more and no less, while the better off get to resume livelihood ain't it

Post Photo
like

What are the key differences in an account management role between PR firms and traditional ad agencies? Are there any major skills someone would need to build when transitioning to ad land? Or is a lot of it transferable?

like

I am graduate in Commerce and have completed 4 years in TCS BPS - BFSI domain.
I need to switch to another Company because my growth has stopped here.
I need to develop skills and I am ready to do certifications.
I just need little guidance.

What are the exit strategies for EY Parthenon directors?

like

Been with Big Four advisory (GRC) for 10 years. Really tired of meaningless “consulting” and commoditized implementations. Recently been through a rough job search and finally landed an offer with a mid size bank in their risk practice. People say that the culture there is quite political and bitter but I’ll learn a heck lot and get a new opening on my resume. Salary is the same. The other option is to take a consulting job that pays me 50k more but do the same work! Thoughts? Thanks!

like

Hi fishes,

Can anyone tell me if infosys promotion is happening as part if retention? Mostly from jl5 to jl6? Did anyone get promotion as part of retention? in infosys?

like

Online course certificates for skills like SCALA, BIGDATA, BIG QUERY, SPARK etc matter?? Who asks for it?

Hi all! I’m currently a commercial account manager at an independent agency with 3.5 years experience….looking to move to underwriting. Any leads on where to start? I’m located in the New England area and would love to be remote.

like

Hello Are they any other HR licenses that are as valuable as the SHRM and HRCI ?

like

Hey everyone. I found out we are expecting our first child and I’m really nervous. I got into consulting one year ago and I’m up for promotion this year. With timing of our performance conversations I would have to inform I’m pregnant before outcomes - then shortly after the promotion effective date I would go on a leave for due date. I’ve worked really hard and I’m worried our wonderful news will throw chances with this :(- also if I don’t get promoted pretty sure it’s up or out. Any advice?

like

Data Scientist at HP vs Data Science Analysis Manager at Cisco (IC), which one is a better position in terms of role and future prospects in Data Science. Years of experience is 6

like

Leaving after one year to another biglaw firm?

like

Hello everyone! I am an analyst at a PE firm wanting to move to Sales (particularly in tech). I have been working in the TMT sector in finance for 8 months and I am looking to vecome more knowledgeable in this new sector (tech sales). Does anyone have any advice regarding jon opportunities /best companies / any other relevant info? Thanks!
P.s - I am spanish an would prefer to work in Spain, although i wouldn't mind travelling if the opportunity is lucrative!

like

Have full-time post-MBA offers from Bain big MCOL City and McKinsey small-ish M/HCOL city. McKinsey city is close to home and where I want to live long term, but I have really vibed with the Bain people.

How do I structure my decision making process?

like

More Posts

What is the salary for Cloud expert in Government at PwC and anyone can tell about their experience in this role.

I’m thinking purchasing a standing desk. Anybody have recommendations on brand? Your experience?

like

What monitors would you recommend for home office? I am about to buy one myself. I work in FDD. Do you guys recommend the ultra wide? Curve screen? freesync?And what definition is good enough ? I really do love Apple Retina display but the price.

like

Living in NJ and may be able to choose NYC as my home office. People who live in NJ can choose NJ / NYC office, which one did you choose?

NJ office: no NYC tax, don't have to file 2 state return. Live in NJ so auto assigned to NJ office currently.

NYC office: NYC tax on paycheck, easier commute, possibly higher pay?

likefunny

I have a client who needs a 401k, or a solo retirement account w loan options. When I was at UBS/Ameriprise, it was no issue but now it seems tougher to find a firm that does solo 401k as a RIA's.

likehelpful

Graduating senior. Have choices between MBB and SWE at FAANG. Not sure what to do. Long term I’d love to be in a small startup or a leader in a tech company. Not sure which path is better for that. Any thoughts?

like

Hi, I am in search of a job with Profile Storage administrator for Bangalore location. Have a relevant work experience of 5 years in NetApp products and troubleshooting. Currently working working as Sr. Technical support Engineer for NetApp project with location Bangalore

Please contact me if anyone has any reference

like

Hello fishes,

I'm looking for someone to share 2bhk (fully furnished) in North Bengaluru (Bhartiya City) . It's an all girls accomodation.
Single room in 2BHK Rent : 16 k approx (negotiable)

About Me: feminist, not a party person but a backpacker. Looking forward to positive vibes, long drives and peace times

like

Hey fishes need 11 likes help me out

like

Looking to relocate to the UK from South Africa. Which are the best recruitment companies for roles in financial services?

like

A PSA to all consultants applying for business development jobs: please figure out what business development means before applying. Hint: it refers to a specific function, and is not, in fact, a catch-all term for all business activities in pharma/biotech.

Sincerely,
An exhausted hiring manager

likefunny

If I go to Law school, could I then become a judge for a state court?

like

UK fish - 1) Level 2) Salary 👇GO!

like

Anyone here from Citi Pune ?
Can you please share details about Club Mahindra perk in Citi ?

like

Hi Fishes,

How's the AVP post in azure domain for
HDFC Bank Mumbai?
What should be the salary bracket one can hope for this position?

YOE - 11+
Tech - Azure Cloud Stack

Any feedback or insights will be greatly appreciated.

Where are some good places to work remotely in Charlotte? Also are there any clubs or groups for remote workers here?

I just found out a new colleague was brought on at 20% higher salary than my current salary. (Have been w/ firm 1.5 years) She doesn’t have a 4-year degree (working on it). How do I bring this inequity up and ask to be compensated equally? I have years more experience and My work is more complex - she is basically a receptionist. Any suggestions would be helpful!

like

About to begin the recruitment process for BCG and am coming in from EY where I’m currently a manager. I have pretty good work life balance: 8 am to 7 pm and on fridays, I can sign off at 3 pm. People are great at EY but I know the work could be more interesting at BCG and also greater pay. Currently making $150k. Should I just stay put? What are the big draws of moving to BCG? I hear it’s crazy hours too…

like

Good luck to everyone taking the CISA tomorrow! You got this! 👍🏼

like

Additional Posts in Consulting Exit Opportunities

Where are your favorite exit ops that pay good money, have good WLB and treat you well? Basically, I want to start putting my resume out there.

like

Has anyone interviewed or familiar with Angelist Venture operations roles? I was reached out to by them to discuss a “Portfolio Operations Lead” role but curious if anyone has any insight on what that entails, pay, etc.

like

Going into final round/loop interview with Amazon and nobody has asked my TC expectations or told me the target for the role yet. Is that standard? Is there a chance one of the loop interviewers will ask me about it?

like

Got sort of an exploding offer on hand. Verbal only so far and requiring decision by Monday pretty firm. Have 3 more processes ongoing in mid-late stages and expect to wrap up probably next week. Gut feeling is I want to take the company who gave the exploding offer though. Any advice on how I can respectfully wrap up other processes/ask for extension?

likesmart

Upcoming interview with large tech company for biz ops go-to-market role. Any book recommendations to learn about go-to-market / sales op strategies for tech?

funny

Anyone know about Vista Outdoor?

like

What’s the expected salary with a bank for a Product manager role in NYC?

Any range?

Do banks offer stock options? ( Ex: BofA, JP )

like

Are corporate finance or pricing dead end ops?

like

What are the exit strategies for EY Parthenon directors?

like

Been with Big Four advisory (GRC) for 10 years. Really tired of meaningless “consulting” and commoditized implementations. Recently been through a rough job search and finally landed an offer with a mid size bank in their risk practice. People say that the culture there is quite political and bitter but I’ll learn a heck lot and get a new opening on my resume. Salary is the same. The other option is to take a consulting job that pays me 50k more but do the same work! Thoughts? Thanks!

like

Would you renege a week before start date or work there for 4 months before quitting for new job? New employer is aware of said job. Main reason is $$$

like

How do you keep from getting discouraged while job hunting? I’ve had 3 final round interviews in the past month and gotten passed over each time. Their reasoning is always “we went in a different direction”. Each of the interview processes was 4-5 interviews so it’s a big time commitment and really gotten my hopes up each time.

like

How much does the industry matter when exiting to a corporate strategy/M&A role? Got an offer with great scope and good pay but industry isn't what I am interested in.

Its an electronic manufacturer that is moving away rapidly from traditional manufacturing into digital such as IoT.

like

Has anyone successfully landed a job in Europe as an American Citizen? I’m really looking into moving to London/Amsterdam or Berlin.

like

You would think I have something horrible in my past given the amount of times I’ve refreshed my background check report over the last week.

I’m so damn excited to put in my two weeks. Can’t take it anymore

like

How hard is it to change groups within Amazon? Do you typically get pay increase when you do?

like

Can someone share Uber program manager base and rsu? Would that role be l5

likehelpful

Any roles at AWS that have the same travel opportunities as consulting?

like

Hi Fishes,

I will we interviewing with Salesforce for the position for Customer Intelligence Analyst position. Could anyone please guide me with the interview process and difficulty level.

like

Can a Partner/Director in PwC refer me?

funny

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal