Return to MBB

Question

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice on getting back into consulting after a challenging start. I joined an MBB firm but was let go within a year due to limited project opportunities and being placed on closed monitoring despite favorable feedback. This was around COVID, which added to the uncertainty.

Since then, I’ve been with an internal strategy team led by ex-MBB consultants for almost three years. Many of my former MBB colleagues who joined this team have returned to the same firm and are willing to refer me. I’m wondering if enough time has passed to reapply, or if my previous exit will still be a barrier.

Would appreciate any thoughts on whether this is feasible or if there are better ways to approach this.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about your negative experience in the past!

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

First of all, I do not see any reason to wait any further if you want to return to strategy consulting. In the end, however, you will only know if you try and see the outcome.
Moreover, regarding your previous exit, it's crucial to address this openly in your reapplication process. Prepare a clear narrative that highlights what you've learned from the experience and how you've grown professionally since then.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your upcoming applications, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

Hey, very interesting question! It's great that you've continued your strategy work with ex-MBB colleagues and received their support for a potential return. I would consider the following:

Enough Time Has Passed: Three years in a strategy role, particularly within an internal strategy team led by ex-MBB consultants, demonstrates solid experience and growth. This time frame may help smooth over any concerns regarding your early exit from MBB, especially if your performance since then has been strong.
Support from Colleagues: Having former MBB colleagues willing to refer you is a significant advantage. Referrals from people within the firm signal trust and confidence in your abilities, which can outweigh past concerns.
Frame Your Story Positively: When reapplying, position your experience as a story of growth. Acknowledge the challenges you faced at MBB (if asked), but focus on how the past three years have allowed you to refine your skills, develop new strengths, and become a stronger candidate.
COVID-19 Context: The fact that your departure happened during the uncertain COVID-19 period might work in your favor. Many companies had disruptions in staffing and project opportunities during that time, and hiring managers may understand that the situation was not entirely reflective of your abilities.
Reapplying Process: Re-entering an MBB firm is possible, especially with a strong professional network. Be transparent about your previous experience during the application and interview process, but highlight your growth and the value you now bring.

Given the circumstances, in my opinion, it seems feasible to reapply. Use your current role and support from former colleagues to build a strong case for your return.

Good Luck!
Alessa

Answer 3

Hi there,

I tend to say yes:

A lot of time has passed
You have worked in a great field and role for a while now
You have nothing to lose
Your contacts can provide you with referrals
Go broad and apply to several firms

All the best,

Florian

Answer 4

Hello there,

Yes, you getting back into the firm is definitely feasible considering:

Enough time has passed
Your post-MBB experience will be recognized based on track record of ex-MBB colleagues who moved back into the firm
You have referrals to leverage

Three points worth noting when you express your narrative in your cover letter / during your fit interviews are:

Focus on development: You need to highlight your key achievements since leaving the firm to show how much you’ve grown
Ownership: Even though COVID might have had a large part to play in your prior exit, you don’t want to come across as absolving yourself of any responsibility on how things went
Path forward: You also need to have actionable points on what you would do differently this time within your control to avoid history repeating itself

Feel free to reach out if you need any support with your application.

All the Best,

Fathu

Answer 5

Networking is your best way back in.

Connect with senior colleagues you worked in the past. Have a coffee with them. Test with them the idea of returning. Involve them in your plan if they are willing to help.

I've seen many people coming back to McKinsey. All of them did it though senior sponsors.

Answer 6

Yes, after 3 years, it's perfectly fine to reapply. Although I suggest you start with the ones you didn't work for.