Tips for Networking in Consulting

Question

I am seeking advice on improving my networking strategy in consulting.

Here's a bit about my background:

I have experience working at a Tier 2 consulting firm.
I've also worked at BMW in a strategy role and a couple of internships in some Small Middle Size consulting firms.

This year, I applied to Tier 1 and Tier 2 consulting firms but unfortunately faced all rejections. I want to strengthen my networking efforts to better position myself for future opportunities.

What are some effective strategies to build meaningful connections in the consulting industry? Are there specific approaches that have worked well for you in similar situations?

I appreciate any insights or tips you can share!

Thank you!

Answer 1

Hey there,

I have a few ideas that you could use:

Attend consulting recruiting events and webinars: Increase the net of contacts by attending events where there will be recruiters and consultants present
Network with the people you meet at these events and webinars to try get referrals: Network and interact with recruiters and consultants, and build professional relationships with them. The goal is to get them to be able to refer you when you reapply next
Do cold outreach to targeted consultants and leaders: For recruiters and consultants that you can't meet at events (Managers and above, but preferably Partners even), try cold outreach through various channels (i.e. LinkedIn, Alum websites, etc.). In terms of identifying who to reach out to, think about those that you have something in common with and work off that (i.e. similar industry interests, went to same university, working on topics of interest, etc.)
Leverage your existing network of people you already know: Reach out to the contacts you already know to see if any of them have contacts with consultants in the Firms you want to work with and see if they can connect you with them

Just to add something addition, given the initial round of rejections you experienced, I would also think about passing the CV screening the next time you apply by ensuring you:

Have sufficient amount of achievements and experiences required
Showcase these achievements adequately in your CV (Lots of Coaches here on PrepLounge can help with this)

Wishing you all the best. (Please feel free to DM me if you want to discuss more on these)

Answer 2

Thanbang’s tips are spot on. For the networking calls, I would:

Open with a clear agenda
Prepare a compelling story to share with your contact (incl. why consulting and why that specific firm)
Ask thoughtful questions that you can’t google or find answers to here
Close with 1-2 asks (referral, intros to folks in target office or practice)
Follow up with a thank you and a reminder of any next steps

I would also recommend that you do your resume revisions before doing any outreach. You can also ask these folks to offer any feedback on that revised version before reapplying.

It took me three tries to get into BCG. I’d be happy to share my story. If you persevere, it will pay off.

Answer 3

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about the rejections!

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

First of all, I would highly advise you to consider working with an experienced coach like me to understand the most likely reasons for your rejections. If your profile is strong, both in absolute and relative terms, the chances of not being invited are very low, even if consulting firms in certain regions may currently hire fewer consultants. So networking may not help at all next year.
Moreover, if you still want to improve your networking, I would highly advise you to be clear about your goal first. If you want to network mainly to get referrals for next year's applications, I do not think you need to invest heavily in networking for months and years.

You can find more on this topic here: How to deal with a rejection from a consulting company.

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

Best,

Hagen

Answer 4

It's important to provide a genuine response that aligns with your personal values and professional goals. Here's a s... (read entire answer)

It's important to provide a genuine response that aligns with your personal values and professional goals. Here's a structured approach :Reflect on Personal ValuesRelate to Prof... (read entire answer)