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Networking before I start at MBB

I got an offer from an MBB, and will start in Q1 of 2025. I was wondering, should I be networking before I start? Both MDP's have emailed/chatted with me and congratulated me on my offer, as well as the first round interviewer. Is this common? Should I continue also reaching out to secondary networks I have to that office? Is this valuable to do or being too pushy?

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Top answer
on Nov 13, 2024
Former-McKinsey | >95% approval rate | >50 candidates supported | Expert in McKinsey case and PEI

Congratulations on your MBB offer! Really amazing! 

It's great that MDPs and your first-round interviewer have reached out to congratulate you—that shows genuine interest and support, which is fairly common in MBB firms, as they place a strong emphasis on building relationships early. That happens some times, but it is not that common. It really means that these people are honestly interested in connecting with you, even inside the firm. I highly recommend you to e-mail them when you start your work to reinforce the connection. 

In MBB companies, network and relationships are much important than in most industries. One strong example is the lack of an internal system to allocate you on projects; being able to get the projects you want comes from having good relationships. 

Therefore, networking before you start can be valuable, especially to build rapport and get more familiar with the culture, leadership, and team members. It also shows initiative and eagerness to learn.   

As for reaching out to secondary networks, it’s okay to do so but in moderation. You don’t want to appear overly eager or pushy, so ensure your messages are casual, focused on learning, and relationship-building, not pushing for anything specific.

In summary, definitely, yes, it’s valuable. Don`t push it too hard, though; let the conversations flow naturally and use this time to gain insights for when you start. Try to connect with real interests of yours. 

Good luck in your journey! 

Fathu
Coach
on Nov 13, 2024
Ex-BCG Europe/ME/Africa | 50+ offers from MBB, Kearney, OW | Personalized coaching | Free 15-min intro call

Hello there,

Congratulations!! There’s no harm in connecting with others to establish a network within the firm but you shouldn’t expend too much energy on that right now. Instead, I’d suggest you unplug, rest and recharge in advance of your job commencement because you’ll need that clear head.

All the best,

Fathu

Alessa
Coach
on Nov 13, 2024
xMcKinsey & Company | xBCG | +200 individual & group coachings | feel free to schedule a 15 min intro call for free

Hey! 

Congratulations on your offer! Light networking before your start date can be a great way to build connections and stay informed, as long as it's done thoughtfully. Given that MDPs and interviewers have already congratulated you, a brief follow-up or thank-you note is a nice touch and keeps the relationship warm. Reaching out occasionally to other contacts, such as team members or alumni in your network, can also be helpful if you focus on genuine curiosity about the work culture, projects, or onboarding tips. Just keep it casual— from my McK experience, networking should enhance your start, not feel pushy, and is generally appreciated when done with enthusiasm and respect for their time.

Best, Alessa

Dennis
Coach
on Nov 13, 2024
Roland Berger|Project Manager and Recruiter|7+ years of consulting experience in USA and Europe

Hi there,

congrats! You don't need to spend excessive amount of time and energy on networking at this stage. You've got the job. Once you start, you'll have plenty of opportunity to network when it matters more. Kick-off events, new-joiner welcomes, onboarding and trainings, office events, etc. Then people can also put a face to your name and it is much easier than trying to reach out to people now somewhat "anonymously".

Also, your life will become stressful enough pretty soon. So spend your free time wisely until then - travel if you can, visit family and friends, catch up on the shows you've always wanted to watch, etc.

All the best

Florian
Coach
on Nov 13, 2024
1400 5-star reviews across platforms | 500+ offers | Highest-rated case book on Amazon | Uni lecturer in US, Asia, EU

Hi there,

Congrats!

You can do it, but I would keep it at a minimum before you start.

Why?

a. You will have so many opportunities to network on the job (with your team, the practice, your office) in a much more natural, organic and targeted way

b. You should rest, relax, and do something else before starting to work

Cheers,

Florian

Alberto
Coach
on Nov 13, 2024
Ex-McKinsey Partner | Most experienced coach (15 years exp, +2.000 real interviews) | 95% success rate

Don't stress with networking

Congratulations on the offer!

Don’t worry about networking; you’ll have plenty of opportunities once you start. It’s very common for people to welcome you warmly as soon as you receive the offer. Getting an offer from an MBB firm is a significant milestone, and colleagues often enjoy celebrating it with the candidate.

Best,

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

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