| Topic Name: |
Consulting Glass Ceilings |
| Message Name: |
Go for an analyst position |
| Date Posted: |
01/29/2001 |
| In Reply To: |
I admit that the age discrimination is a long shot, but at the rate the "We're sorry to inform you"s are coming in, I may need the money soon!
I understand what you're saying about presentation as well as solutions being part of the package. Most of these companies have alluded to the same thing, and I don't think it's fair. I'm not a sufer dude 22 year old, I'm a mature, seasoned, charismatic (well, I'd like to think so), articulate adult who is younger, but probably more experienced in the corporate world than most of the gray-haired guys they would hire over me. Surely merit should count more, no?
I suppose not everyone sees the world the way I do, but the question now is what to do about it.
Should I backtrack and take an analyst position with a Big Five? I'm worried that it's already too late, because while I'm too "young" for a higher position in those firms, I'm going to be too experienced for an analyst position. They'll wonder why I'm applying for an entry level position, especially when they discover my salary history. Do you think?
Should I just stick with the higher positions in the smaller firms and attempt a horizontal jump later on? Or will that put me even deeper in the hole?
I have some contacts in Big Five, but most of them are people who would stifle a giggle when I come to them asking for placement in an entry level position, after openly revolting against it the year before.
Thank again for your thoughts! |
| Message: |
I sort of agree with the previous poster. You took some shots but really, as a seasoned veteran in consulting, I am gald o see there are people out there like you. But the reality is that 4.5 years of experience is not very much at all. It's not the time or the age. It's the value of that time spent. You say you could work above "lowly" positions such as project manager. Do you know what a project manager does at McKinsey? Do you know how many years of experience they have? You really need to do some homework. There IS a reason why you are not doing well in these interviews. People are not discriminating you based on your age. That is an excuse I am afraid you are making for yourself. I have hired many undergrads because I though they were brilliant. I never hesitated because of age. You need to gain more relevant experience. You're statement about e-business starting in 96 is evident that you do not understand the new economy. The groundworks for the Internet economy, ebusiness and ecommerce began 20 years ago. E-business was "coined" in 1992. The strategy work for large companies to become ready for the Internet began in the late eighties. I believe that you were not even a teenager yet then. You're young, so be patient. No one will throw 6 figures at you and give you a manager position at a top-tier consulting firm. If you want the title and the salary to make you feel valued in the business world, I suggest you go to a smaller boutique firm. Your resume nor your attitude will cut it in the big leagues. Best of luck.
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