Struck out on MBB... what's the path from here? Anyone struck out on consulting completely?

It sounds like you're in a tough spot, but don't lose hope—there are still viable paths to break into consulting or pivot to other strong opportunities. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable steps you can take:

1. Leverage Your Network

• Alumni and Recruiters: Reach out to alumni from your school who are in consulting, even if they're at T2/T3 firms or boutiques. Start with low-risk informational chats to understand how to best position yourself.
• Professors and Career Office: Professors with industry connections or your career office might know of firms still hiring or have insights into boutique firms that are less visible.
• Recruiters: If you've been contacted by recruiters in the past, reconnect with them. They may have leads on boutique firms or firms with niche practices.

2. Target Tier 2/Tier 3 Firms and Boutiques

• Firms like EY, Deloitte, KPMG, and IBM often have strong consulting practices and may still be hiring. These firms can provide great experience and exit opportunities.
• Boutique firms, especially those focused on specific industries or verticals (e.g., TMT, healthcare, or FS), can offer more access to partners, leadership opportunities, and sometimes better work-life balance.

3. Reframe Your Story

• If you're applying to lower-tier firms, be prepared to address why you're pivoting from MBB. Be honest but strategic. For example, you could say, "I realized I want to work in a firm where I can have a more hands-on role and see the direct impact of my work."
• Highlight transferable skills from your non-consulting internship, such as problem-solving, strategic thinking, or client-facing experience.

4. Consider Internal Strategy Roles

• Programs like Capital One's Strategy Group or LinkedIn SOAR are excellent alternatives. You can position this as a preference for seeing the direct impact of your work within a company.
• Internal strategy roles often provide similar skill-building opportunities as consulting and can be a stepping stone to pivot back into consulting later.

5. Broaden Your Search

• Explore roles in corporate development, VC/PE, or tech strategy. Consulting isn't the only path to a fulfilling career, and these roles often value the same analytical and strategic skills.
• Some VC/PE firms are open to candidates with consulting-like skills, especially if you can network your way in.

6. Keep an Eye on Timing

• Consulting firms often have unstructured hiring processes for full-time roles, especially in the fall. Keep applying and networking, as firms may have unexpected openings.

7. Prepare for the Long Game

• If consulting is your ultimate goal, consider reapplying after gaining experience in a related field. Many people successfully pivot into consulting post-MBA or after a few years in industry roles.

8. Stay Positive and Persistent

• It's easy to feel discouraged, but remember that many people have faced similar setbacks and still found success. Use this as an opportunity to refine your pitch, build your network, and explore alternative paths.

You're not alone in this, and there are plenty of ways to pivot or re-enter consulting down the line. Keep pushing forward, and good luck!

Sources: Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, My full time offer got rescinded, Strategy& Ex Employee - Q&A, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice