I am currently a junior at a Midwest state school and I have an internship in a F100 Finance and Accounting program for this coming summer. Given my current trajectory, I have a question about moving from a F100 finance role into consulting after a few years.
Does having corporate experience make me an attractive candidate for a consulting job? Or would I need to go back and get an MBA from a top program?
If going to B school, the switch would be standar and straight forward. if attempting to lateral, I think the switch would still be doable (albeit considerably more difficult). A few things to consider below.
-Interview process is competitive. Contrary to what many people will tell you, I think one needs to have solid consulting industry knowledge to perform well. First, you should understand what distinguishes specific firms from one another (e.g. L.E.K. does primarily PE due dilligence, AT Kearney does a great deal of supply chain and operations work, Big 4 firms are "do it all" types of shops, etc.). For this i'd pour over WSO, firm websites, etc. Second, you'd also want to learn about what is taking place in the industry (new models, key trends, thought leadership, etc.). For this I'd recommend the McKinsey podcast and similar resources
-Networking is critical. I would attend company info sessions and meet consultants in the upcoming Fall recruiting season, regardless of whether or not you plan to apply. Take their card, and follow up over email. Additionally, if/when the time comes, reach out to anyone you know in your personal network who may be able to connect for info/advice.
-Craft your story. Come interview day, they'll obviously ask about your background and why you're interested in consulting. You'll need to string together a compelling narrative about how you got exposed to certain strategy topics while in corp fin, and realized that is the space you want to be in
-A great deal of case interview prep would also be a smart idea
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