DOES networking matter for MBB Summer Internships? US
Hey everyone,
Second year at a strong target here, recruiting for Summer 2026 management consulting internships. Have spent the past couple months speaking with people who work at McKinsey and BCG, and the associates and managers who I’ve spoken with always subtly say that networking doesn’t really matter at their firms. They give the standard advice of having a good resume and how to tailor it, but from what I’m hearing, networking doesn’t make a difference like how it does in banking.
However, my school’s recruiting team has given me conflicting responses: recruiters have told me that it doesn’t make a difference but have implied that it does make a difference with office choice. What do you guys think? Will it help you land the interview, or is it strictly informational?
Thanks everyone ! :)
Networking does matter for MBB summer internships, but its impact is nuanced. Based on the most helpful WSO content:
Networking's Role in Securing Interviews: Networking can help you land an interview, but it’s not a guarantee. While McKinsey, Bain, and BCG emphasize strong resumes, GPAs, and test scores, having positive interactions with consultants can give you an edge. For example, if two candidates have similar qualifications, the one who has built rapport with consultants through networking (e.g., case practice, phone calls, or events) is more likely to be pushed forward.
Office Choice Influence: Networking can play a more significant role in influencing your office choice. Building relationships with consultants at a specific office can make them more inclined to advocate for you, especially if they see you as a good cultural fit.
Networking Events Are Evaluative: Every interaction with the firm—whether at dinners, happy hours, or case competitions—is assessed. Positive impressions during these events can help you stand out.
Balancing Efforts: While networking is important, it’s not a substitute for a strong application. Focus on leadership experience, academic performance, and case prep, as these are critical for success in MBB recruiting.
In summary, networking won’t single-handedly secure you a role, but it can provide a valuable boost, especially for office preferences and differentiating yourself among equally qualified candidates.
Sources: What should I do as an undergrad if I want to work for Mckinsey?, Consulting Recruiting 2023, 2019 MBB Comparison (Interview Process, Locations, Responsibilities, Perks...), Bain or BCG for Summer Internship??, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in
This comment comes up like once a month and I reply the same thing and get like 5 SB and no one ever saves the response. Oh well. Quick answer is yes.
I am the client serving recruiting lead for a few target schools and we have met like 2/3 of the people who we interview before we interview them. Half of them (so 1/3 of the total spots) would have probably gotten an interview anyways. But the other half pushed themselves in by virtue of a good networking call or three. It is MUCH easier to be a part of that group than it is to be a part of the cracked group who didn’t need to network. And networking also makes you interview better.
BCG told us during OCR that they keep a tracker
Not BCG but we keep a networking tracker. Imagine every major firm with centralized on campus recruiting would have one.
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