I’ve signed an offer to start at an MBB firm in September, but I just got a 6-month internship offer at a PE firm. Ideally, I’d like to postpone my MBB start to do the internship. Is there a risk to asking to postpone the start date?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, requesting a deferral to pursue a PE internship can be a delicate situation. While it’s not uncommon for firms like MBB to accommodate deferrals, the risk lies in how the request is perceived. Here are some key considerations:
Firm's Perspective: MBB firms may view your request as a lack of commitment or question your long-term interest in consulting. However, if framed correctly, emphasizing how the internship will enhance your skills and bring value to your future role at MBB could mitigate this risk.
Timing and Communication: Be transparent and professional in your approach. Clearly explain the opportunity, its timing, and how it aligns with your career goals. Avoid making it seem like you’re prioritizing the PE internship over your MBB offer.
Precedent: There are examples of individuals successfully deferring start dates for valid reasons, such as internships or personal development. However, this depends on the specific office culture and leadership.
Potential Outcomes: The firm might agree to the deferral, deny the request, or, in rare cases, reconsider your offer. It’s essential to gauge the firm's flexibility and weigh the importance of the internship against the risk of jeopardizing your MBB offer.
A suggested approach could be:
"I am incredibly excited to join [MBB Firm] and am fully committed to contributing to the team. I recently received an opportunity to undertake a 6-month internship at a PE firm, which I believe will further develop my analytical and strategic skills, ultimately benefiting my role at [MBB Firm]. Would it be possible to explore a deferral of my start date to accommodate this opportunity?"
This framing shows enthusiasm for MBB while highlighting the value of the internship.
Didn’t you already ask this in another post?
Tried posting it to the consulting forum but got automatically moved here again. Sorry about that
Put most simply, this is a horrible idea
The risk is that they cancel your offer heading into the teeth of what’s almost certainly going to be the worst recession in modern American history.
It’s not that likely but it’s absolutely possible.
My impression is consulting firms are a bit more flexible w/ start dates than in finance, but if this was flipped there's a very real risk you'd see your FT offer go bye bye.
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