Recruiting Strategy
When should I apply to consulting after taking a break from case prep?
I did more than 60 cases before finishing my master's, then stopped practising. After graduation I took about two months off to travel. I'm back to preparation now and can do it full time, but I'm worried that another month or two will leave an awkward gap on my CV.
Should I start applying now or prepare first? How much time might there be between applying and interviewing? And should I apply to MBB and other firms together rather than risk having to accept one offer before hearing from another? I don't currently have a budget for coaching.
Ian’s Answer
I would start networking ASAP. At any point that you get put in touch with HR or get a referral, apply. If networking doesn't bear fruit, I would "mass apply" within the next month.
Could be less than a week, but generally takes a few weeks. Could take up to a few months.
You need a better story. Tell them you actively decided to take time off (i.e. this was a choice). You've pushed hard for many years and wanted to take the opportunity to do x. Now, you're ready to jump back in
Yes, in a sense. No need to go through the process one-by-one. Apply as soon as you have done the appropriate networking