Hi there,I've just finished my PhD studies (physics) and want to become a consultant. My aim is the top consulting firms such as Mck, BCG, Accenture..I've done well in my first degree (top 5%), been the president of an association and volunteer for an international financial forum..however, I did not take much activities during my PhD studies..I have no official business background which makes me not confident to be a candidate for the top consulting firms, but I read financial and business books. So, what should I do to realize my aims?Many thanks!Ben

Beyond the information for applicants on those firms' websites, what information do you need, or what are your specific queries?

well, I can imagine that the threshold for these firms are high, so I was wondering if there're any tips for a successful application (espeically to these firms) or anything I could do rather than just sending my cv and waiting (say write an email to one of the HRs?). And, I've no idea how competitive I am. Am I too far away from the level of these firms? What kind of PhD they would give the offer? My advantages and disadvantages in these firms' eyes and what shall I improve..

"Top firms such as Mck, BCG, Accenture"May want to do a little more research on Accenture.....?

do accenture suck? I was looking at them...thought their starting salary of £31k and £10k bonus over the first 2 years was like the highest grad salary Ive ever seen!Who are the top 5?

Tips for a successful application:* determine your personal and career priorities (e.g. what life-balance are you looking for, do you wish to use your PhD expertise in your work, what type of culture and organisation do you work well in, what type of consulting is right for you, is consulting even the right option - have you actively eliminated all other paths)* research both the industry and the firm (this seems like a huge gap for you at the moment)* reflect your understanding of self and firm in your application (e.g. there are some major differences between Accenture and McKinsey in their offerings and the work they do) - think about both strengths and weaknesses (yours and the firm's)* tailor your CV and covering letter to each firm.

I see you're really honed those research skills with that high quality PhD

I was in a similar dilema a few years ago... I have an engineering/scientific background with a good undergraduate degree and a PhD in Chemical Engineering. After 4 years in industry, I opted for a career change and will shortly be joing PwC in a consultancy role....There is only so far a PhD will get especially if you want to go down the science route, especially in the UK.....Comes down to what kind of job you want and where you want to be in ten years time...MY understanding is that consultancy will take you more places and give you more options which is precisely why I am going down this route...Hope this helps

Flyin Pizza:Thank you very much for your tips, I'll do my homework on the firms and myself :)Misc:Thanks for sharing your experience with me. You are right, changing career is not easy and I should be down to earth!