Can someone please tell me how MBB experienced hire works?

Hi all, As stated in the prompt, I’m trying to figure out how to pivot into the MBB generalist track as an experienced hire (EH, if I’m even considered an EH). 

My background:

  1. U.S. Top20 university (GPA3.86), majored in film & media and data science
  2. Right after undergrad, I did a M7 master's for a year
  3. Joined the Top5 media company as a data analyst after my master’s and now it’s my second year. (This is my first job)

My questions:

  1. I saw mixed views on how recruitment for EHs works. I probably won’t need to do assessment games and can’t join any campus recruitment cycle. So I can just apply anytime?
  2. How does MBB evaluate EHs? Unsure if the data analytical skills learned from my current role would be helpful.
  3. Does any of the MBB have a preference or dislike EHs?

Thanks for reading until now. I’d greatly appreciate any advice you have as I’m preparing to apply for analyst position in September. 

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights regarding MBB experienced hire (EH) recruitment:

  1. Recruitment Process for EHs:

    • Application Timing: Unlike campus recruitment cycles, experienced hires can often apply at any time. However, it's always good to check specific firm guidelines as they may have preferred periods for EH applications.
    • Assessment Games: As an experienced hire, you might not need to go through the same assessment games that campus recruits do. The process can be more streamlined and focused on your professional experience and skills.
  2. Evaluation Criteria for EHs:

    • Skill Relevance: MBB firms look for relevant skills and experiences. Your data analytical skills from your current role at a top media company can be very valuable. MBB firms appreciate candidates who bring strong analytical capabilities and can translate data into actionable insights.
    • Background Fit: Firms will evaluate how your background aligns with their needs. Given your non-traditional background in film & media and data science, it's important to highlight how these experiences can bring a unique perspective to consulting.
  3. Preferences for EHs:

    • Firm-Specific Preferences: Each MBB firm may have different preferences or inclinations towards EHs. Some firms might have a stronger track record of hiring individuals with non-traditional backgrounds, while others might be more conservative.
    • Conviction and Fit: It's crucial to demonstrate conviction and a clear understanding of why you want to join a specific office. Firms like Bain, for example, look for candidates who show strong conviction and know that the office they are applying to is their top choice.

Additional Tips: - Networking: Engage with current consultants, especially those with similar backgrounds, to understand their journey and gather insights. - Case Prep: Focus on quality case preparation. Practice with individuals who have successfully navigated the MBB recruitment process, such as second-year consultants or career services professionals.

Good luck with your application in September!

Sources: Prefer Elite Boutiques or Bulge Brackets?, Has Anyone Worked at Both a BB and EB?, What’s Harder? MBB or EB/BB, NE M7 to MBB: What I wish I knew, observations, and ask me anything, What’s Harder? MBB or EB/BB

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Odit suscipit totam facere ipsam dolor totam. Enim est tempora id quo rerum est corporis. Est voluptates sint sit earum amet qui. Et voluptates cumque sunt esse est qui dolorum.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Consulting

  • Boston Consulting Group 99.5%
  • Bain & Company 99.0%
  • McKinsey and Co 98.5%
  • Oliver Wyman 98.0%
  • LEK Consulting 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Consulting

  • Cornerstone Research 99.5%
  • Bain & Company 99.0%
  • Boston Consulting Group 98.5%
  • McKinsey and Co 98.0%
  • Oliver Wyman 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Consulting

  • Bain & Company 99.5%
  • Boston Consulting Group 99.0%
  • McKinsey and Co 98.5%
  • Oliver Wyman 98.0%
  • LEK Consulting 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Consulting

  • Partner (4) $361
  • Principal (30) $294
  • Director/MD (58) $274
  • Vice President (53) $247
  • Engagement Manager (111) $232
  • Manager (167) $172
  • 2nd Year Associate (185) $142
  • 3rd+ Year Associate (115) $135
  • Senior Consultant (354) $132
  • Consultant (635) $122
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (162) $121
  • 1st Year Associate (575) $121
  • NA (16) $114
  • Engineer (6) $114
  • 2nd Year Analyst (390) $104
  • Associate Consultant (175) $100
  • 1st Year Analyst (1152) $90
  • Intern/Summer Associate (205) $83
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (626) $67
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
6
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
9
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
10
numi's picture
numi
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”