Consulting work ex in Germany -> Consulting in India?

Hey fellow chimps!

Context: I currently have 4.5 years of experience working in financial services/market research KPO firms in India and I'm looking to pivot in consulting. An easy route is to pursue an MBA in India, which can offer me an entry in a MBB/T2 consulting firm. However, I wanted to get an international exposure and learn how is it like to work in a totally different environment before I move back to India through lateral recruiting. That said, Germany came up on my research and from what I've learn from this forum and others regarding the consulting roles, having an ability to read, write, and speak in German is a must to survive in this domain.

So let's say, if pursue a master's in Germany for 2 years, simultaneously grind myself to learn the language up to B2/C1 level so that I'm eligible to recruit for a consulting role in a MBB/T2 consulting firm, work for at least 5 years in Germany and accumulate experience, and return back to India hoping to laterally recruit in a MBB/T2 consulting firm in India, does it even makes sense to pursue such plan? And is it feasible or just a waste of my time and a pipe dream?

Also, I wanted to know, what's the worth of 5+ years of experience in a German MBB/T2 consulting firm in the Indian consulting market?

Any suggestions or advice would be helpful.

Thanks in advance!

2 Comments
 

Hey there, future consulting star!

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your plan to pivot into consulting via an international route is quite ambitious and could be rewarding. Here's a breakdown of your strategy and its feasibility:

  • MBA in India vs. Masters in Germany: Pursuing an MBA in India is indeed a common pathway into MBB/T2 firms. However, your desire for international exposure is understandable and can differentiate you from peers.

  • Language Barrier: You're correct that in Germany, proficiency in German is often essential for consulting roles. Achieving a B2/C1 level alongside your master's is a smart move and will likely be necessary for client interactions.

  • Work Experience in Germany: Accumulating 5 years of experience at a German MBB/T2 firm would be valuable. It's often seen that experience in developed markets is well-regarded in emerging markets like India.

  • Lateral Move to India: After gaining substantial experience in Germany, moving back to India could be feasible. Firms often value international experience, and it could give you an edge in the Indian consulting market.

  • Market Worth: As for the worth of 5+ years of experience in a German MBB/T2 firm, it's generally quite high. The skills, expertise, and international perspective you would bring can position you for senior roles within consulting firms in India.

In conclusion, your plan is ambitious but not a pipe dream. It requires dedication, strategic planning, and a willingness to adapt to new cultures and languages. If you can navigate these challenges, the rewards in terms of career growth and personal development could be significant.

Remember, the consulting world values diverse experiences and skill sets, so your international exposure could indeed be a valuable asset. Keep swinging through those vines, and you might just land in the perfect spot!

Good luck, and if you need more insights, just holler!

Sources: Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, Q&A: Strategy consulting Associate Partner offering career advice, Are these 'prestigious' jobs like MBB/T2 worth it?, Ex-McKinsey Consultant Here Answering Questions

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

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