Will Consulting hiring pickup in mid 2025?

Question

Hi all!

As we know there is a general hiring slowdown in consulting from 2023 - 2024. I've been told that this can be expected in the Asia offices too. Do you think there is a possibility of the hiring situation improving around mid 2025 and why so? Would love to know your opinions.

Answer 1

Predicting the exact trajectory of consulting hiring in mid-2025 is challenging due to various economic and industry-specific factors. However, there are several indicators that suggest a potential uptick in hiring:

1. Economic Conditions and Interest Rates: The potential for interest rate cuts in late 2024 could stimulate economic activity, providing companies with more capital to invest in consulting services. This could lead to increased demand for consultants as businesses seek strategic advice to navigate new opportunities and challenges.

2. Industry Adjustments: Many consulting firms have overhired in recent years, leading to a recalibration of staffing levels. While this means that firms may not hire at the same levels as seen in 2021, the natural churn in consulting—due to its high-pressure environment—ensures there will always be opportunities for new entrants.

3. Sector-Specific Growth: Certain sectors like infrastructure, government, healthcare, and clean energy are expected to see growth, which could spur demand for consulting services in these areas. Firms may engage in just-in-time hiring to meet these specific needs, leading to periodic bursts of recruitment activity.

4. Recruitment Trends: While full-time MBA hiring may remain steady, there is an expectation for increased hiring at the undergraduate and specialty master's levels as firms diversify their talent pipelines. This suggests that while overall hiring might not return to previous peaks immediately, there will be opportunities, especially for those from varied educational backgrounds.

In summary, while consulting hiring in mid-2025 may not reach the heights of previous years immediately, there are signs of potential growth driven by economic changes and sector-specific demands. The industry remains competitive, and those looking to enter should be prepared for a rigorous recruitment process.

Answer 2

Hi there,

All things point towards it (economic cycles, inflation going down, interest rate cuts) but predictions are always hard, especially about the future ;D

All jokes aside, everyone in the industry I speak to is quite positive about 2025. Let's hope it goes our way!

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 3

Hi,

Interesting question, and I've heard arguments for both sides of the coin here.

In SEA, business is picking up albeit slowly. If the trend continues then yes hiring will continue. But to be honest, nobody knows.

If you intend to apply, the advice I would give you is apply when you are ready and when the opportunity arises (e.g. someone offers to refer you).

All the best!

Answer 4

Hi there, Short answer: No hiring freeze. I have coachees who currently are in processes with BCG as well as McKinsey... (read entire answer)

Hi there, Short answer: No hiring freeze. I have coachees who currently are in processes with BCG as well as McKinsey Germany. Invites were reduced, but not as much as commonly... (read entire answer)

Answer 5

Hi there, First of all, I am sorry to hear about your concerns regarding the hiring freeze across the Big 4! I would... (read entire answer)

Hi there, First of all, I am sorry to hear about your concerns regarding the hiring freeze across the Big 4! I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions: First of al... (read entire answer)

Answer 6

Hi, Regarding your questions: Usually there would be limited spots for topic specific roles, like Digital, Cyber, Ope... (read entire answer)

Hi, Regarding your questions: Usually there would be limited spots for topic specific roles, like Digital, Cyber, Operations, etc. while general tracks are hiring on a rolling b... (read entire answer)