How realistic is MBB for someone of my background?

Hi there,

You definitely have a chance with MBB. To maximize your chances, here are a few things you can do:

1. Conduct research/networking to identify which industries MBB are strong in your country as they typically want to hire people from their client's industries. For example, if your desired MBB is strong in consumer products, working for companies like Unilever / Kellogg's / Danone would increase your chances.

2. Work for an internship or full-time at a second-tier firm. MBBs do lateral hires from second tiers. For example, if you are working on healthcare cases at LEK, chances are MBB's healthcare practice would be interested in having you if they are expanding in your region. 

3. Practice more cases while you are working. For most people, practice still makes perfect. You don't want to start practicing cases 2 weeks before your 1st round interview with MBB. 

4. Alternatively, try the MBA route - Doing an MBA with a school like INSEAD massively increases your chances. However, you need to consider the costs & benefits as it is a huge commitment. 

I hope this helps and feel free to reach out to me directly if you need any support on this.

Cheers,

David

Hi there,

Are you doing a target major/masters at a target uni? Or, are you doing an unrelated major at a target uni. There's a big difference!

Even though LBS might be a target for Bschool/MBA students, that doesn't automatically mean your Maths major is a target…you need to talk to your school recruiting team to see what events you're eligible for and if you can recruit as part of the target school channels.

That said, you can work around this by building up your consulting + work experience in consulting-related activites, by getting a strong resume, and by networking extensively. Definitely hire a coach to get you a tailored plan to maximize your odds.

How to Get a Consulting Internship - Tips and Tricks
 

Hi,

Resume screeners typically look for a few things when they are assessing your application:

1. Education (proxy for your ‘intellectual horsepower’)
2. Work experience (or internships)
3. Other activities (extracurricular, leadership etc)

For each of these, of course how well you do and the branding/prestige matters. 

The application review process is a holistic one, and generally consulting firms are looking for well rounded individuals. So in your instance, it is good that you are a target school and your grades are good, but you are at a disadvantage given the lack of experience in other areas.

So 2 things you could do

1. Try and beef up your CV
   • If time permits, try and take on more activities that can highlight your relevant skills
   • Otherwise you have to really dig deep to try and craft points for the non education section
2. Network
   • Not a guarantee that you will pass the screening but at least your CV will be handed to HR for review

All the best!

Hello, 

I think with your background in Mathematics + strong academic performance you can definitely target MBB. 

A few good things to focus on during the next few years: 

- Look for internship opportunities: Be careful about application dates to make sure you can apply. 

- Opportunities to network with MBB: Case competitions, company events, recruiting events, Consulting Clubs …

- Start Preparing for interviews: Starting to prepare right now interviews (case + Fit) will allow you to begin learning and using the business linguo / frameworks you will need. This way you will avoid aving to rush prepare in 3 weeks and can take the time to get comfortable and ready for when time comes! 

- Internship or activity with a Big Name: It definitely helps get the resume highlighted when you have a big name - try to do an internship in math or business that can get it to you even if not major (few weeks, school project, …) 

→ Quick thought: If you are considering, there is also potential to do the PhD after your Masters and then to join MBB through Advanced Degrees recruiting | That option gets you directly to Consultant / Associate level (Post MBA)

Fun times ahead! Good luck with the preparation, let me know if you have any questions! 
Nicolas Vilmin

I love it when people plan properly. That's a great question. 

Basically, consulting firms look for proof in your CV that you either have done consulting before (e.g., internships) or have ‘consultant-like skills'. This is the sort of experience that you need to get. 

Once you have it, it comes down to how you convey your story properly. That's both through the application process (CV, cover letter) but also when networking with existing consultants. 

Sharing with you a couple of articles you might find useful going forward:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy
• Expert Guide: What Do Management Consultants Do? 
• Expert Guide: How To Handle Networking Calls and Get Referrals

Good luck!
Cristian 

Hi there,

Q: How would I plan my next 2 years if MBB is my desired route?

Your CV credentials seem good. The main things I would work on given what you shared are:

1. Work experience, via internships (you mentioned you are lacking in that area).
2. Extracurriculars (in case you don’t have them). They might help in particular to show leadership skills.
3. Referrals. They will increase your chances to get an invitation.

You can find more on referrals below:

▶ How to Get an MBB Invitation

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

Your background looks fine to try within MBB. You can increase your chances by applying to an internship at MBB, participating in entrepreneurial activities (e.g., volunteering, consulting clubs, etc.) and networking with MBB consultants to get referrals.

Good luck!

Alberto

—

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

Hi,

based on your educational background and GPA, you would probably clear that hurdle in the recruiting process. However, there are other aspects as well (non-exhaustive). 

• Internships - add work experience to your resume from either big name industry companies, consulting firms or something in the startup space where you can highlight experiences relevant for the job as a consultant
• Extracurriculars - focus on areas or initiatives where you can showcase your entrepreneurial spirit and/or your service to the community or general empathy (e.g. volunteering)
• Experience abroad - highlight that you can function outside of your comfort zone and embrace cultures and ways of living other than your own - speaking multiple languages is a plus too
• Networking - tailor your profile and your recruiting approach towards consulting - get in touch with consultants working at your target firms and try to secure an internal referral before applying

Best of luck

If you are a top student at a target school your academics will not be an issue and you will be a target candidate for them. You need to complement with relevant experience, networking, and if possible some extra-curricular activities.