Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Case Partners to connect and practice with!
Back to overview

Can I network people at non-consulting firms (Tech, PE) after getting my MBB intern offer?

Hi,

I was wondering if it is taboo or bad practice to network with people who are company alums who have now exited into other industries (e.g., tech, PE). I am genuinely curious about their experience at/after the firm, but I want to make sure that this is not something that is "frowned upon."

6 Answers
200+ Views
66
Be the first to answer!
Nobody has responded to this question yet.
Top answer
Hagen
Coach
on Dec 06, 2024
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | most experience in consulting, interviewing and coaching

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the internship offer!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

  • No, it is common practice to connect with alumni in other industries, and it is generally not frowned upon.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Thabang
Coach
on Dec 03, 2024
Ex-McKinsey Consultant | McKinsey Top Coach & Interviewer | Special Offer: Buy 1 Session Get 1 Free (Limited time!)

You could for sure. With this in mind, I would leverage your internship opportunity to find out as much as you can about the areas you are interested in (i.e. Tech, PE) so you can have more substance and content to discuss with the individuals you would want to consult with. 

So in your internship, look for the Partners and leaders in PE and Tech / Digital (for example) and try network and engage with them first to see what work has been in those areas.

All the best! 

on Dec 02, 2024
Ex-BCG Project Leader | Experienced Interviewer | Free 20min Intro Call

I don't see why not! I would be clear about the purpose of the call and mindful of people's time (ask for ~15-20-minute chat vs. 30+). 

Florian
Coach
on Dec 03, 2024
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 500+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

Long story short, there is no issue here. ;-)

Cheers,

Florian

Soh
Coach
edited on Dec 03, 2024
Pharma/Mkt. Size/Strategy/M&A Expert| Corp. Strategy Director| Ex ZS Interview panel| -30% 1st case| 15 min free consult

Hi,

Yes you can, if it is just for learning purposes only.

However, be honest and clear about your intent  when you reach out and clearly articulate what you are looking for from the conversation so there is no misunderstanding. 

Being clear is important since some of the alums maybe in touch with their colleagues in your firm so you want to avoid perception of any conflict of interest.

Thanks,

Soh

Alberto
Coach
on Dec 04, 2024
Ex-McKinsey Partner | Most experienced coach (15 years exp, +2.000 real interviews) | 95% success rate

Expanding your network is always a best practice.

Similar Questions
Consulting
Which US Consulting firms sponsor international applicants?
on Dec 09, 2024
USA
6 Answers
1.1k Views
Top answer by
Hagen
Coach
#1 recommended coach | >95% success rate | most experience in consulting, interviewing and coaching
114
6 Answers
1.1k Views
+3
Consulting
Can you lateral to MBB in 2025?
on Dec 20, 2024
USA
6 Answers
200+ Views
Top answer by
Thabang
Coach
Ex-McKinsey Consultant | McKinsey Top Coach & Interviewer | Special Offer: Buy 1 Session Get 1 Free (Limited time!)
7
6 Answers
200+ Views
+3
Consulting
Career switch from AE at SaaS startup to entry-level MBB?
on Nov 04, 2024
USA
3 Answers
200+ Views
Top answer by
+600 Interviews | Free 30-min alignment call | Ex-Principal & Member of the Recruiting task force | 360° Coaching
36
3 Answers
200+ Views
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely
You are a true consultant! Thank you for consulting us on how to make PrepLounge even better!