Networking is often the single biggest difference-maker in consulting recruiting—and in June 2025, it’s more important than ever. With most firms closing applications by early fall and interview prep intensifying by August, now is the time to start. This guide walks you through everything: why networking matters, how to structure your outreach, whom to contact, and what to say. Whether you're a rising junior, applying this cycle, or just exploring consulting, you'll find actionable advice here.
TLDR:
In consulting, networking isn’t optional—it’s the norm. In a field where thousands of resumes blur together, conversations are what make candidates stand out. Firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Bain—and even smaller boutiques—rely heavily on referrals and insider input to identify applicants who go beyond what's written on a resume. Why? Because consulting is a client-facing, fast-paced job, and firms want people who are not only smart, but also curious, articulate, and easy to work with. These traits don’t come through on paper. But they do show up in a 20-minute coffee chat.
When you speak with consultants, you’re not just gathering information—you’re signaling that you understand the industry, are proactive about your career, and can build genuine rapport. These are the same qualities consultants rely on when building relationships with clients, navigating internal teams, or presenting recommendations under pressure. Every touchpoint is a subtle case interview: how well you prepare, how thoughtful your questions are, how you follow up.
It’s important to reframe how you think about networking. It isn’t about begging for a referral or blasting out the same LinkedIn message to 100 people. It’s not about hoping someone will “put in a good word” because you said hello. Good networking is about understanding what makes each firm—and each person—unique. It’s about approaching conversations with a sense of curiosity rather than an agenda. When you do this well, not only will you learn whether a firm is a fit for you, but you’ll also leave a strong impression that could help you get your foot in the door—often without ever asking for it.
Treat networking like you would a job or internship—because done right, it’s just as time-intensive and just as valuable. You wouldn't show up to work without a plan, and the same applies here. Set clear, measurable goals for yourself—like aiming to have three meaningful conversations per week or reaching out to one new firm each day. Then track your progress. Use a spreadsheet, CRM tool, or even a simple Notion board to log who you contacted, when, and what you discussed. This helps you stay organized, identify gaps, and reflect on what strategies are actually working.
Think of your networking process as a funnel:
Throughout this process, remember that quality always beats quantity. Sending 200 copy-pasted messages won’t help you nearly as much as having 5 strong conversations that leave someone thinking, “I’d be happy to work with this person.” Those few strong connections often lead to more introductions, more insight, and more support than a dozen surface-level chats.
And perhaps most importantly: networking is not linear. The effects compound over time. One chat might lead to a second, which leads to a referral, which leads to an insider tip that helps you crack an interview. The seeds you plant now can grow into opportunities you didn’t even know existed—if you stay intentional and consistent.
All of these count as networking. Focus on creating authentic moments, not checking boxes.
Effective networking isn’t just about who you reach out to—it’s about when you reach out to them. Start with your strongest, warmest connections, then gradually expand your outreach as your confidence and knowledge grow. Here's a prioritized roadmap:
These are the people most likely to respond—and most likely to help.
These people may not know you personally, but they’re close enough to feel relevant.
Once you’ve spoken to a few juniors and understand the basics, consider going further.
They’re important, but not for case advice or “what’s the firm culture like” questions. Instead, ask them about timelines, application logistics, and how to flag your materials for the right role or office. They’re gatekeepers—so be polite, informed, and professional. Some people overlook campus recruiters, but they often can connect you to other people at the firm (e.g. former students they recruited from your university). The key is to be respectful and not pushy. If they can help, great! If not, move on.
Here are sample templates you can tweak depending on your situation. Each one includes a LinkedIn version (under 300 characters) and a more detailed email.
LinkedIn: Hi [Name], I’m a rising senior at [School] interested in consulting and saw you also studied here! I’d love to hear more about your path into [Firm] and any advice you might have—would you be open to a short call?
Email Subject: MBA student exploring consulting – quick chat?
Hi [Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is XYZ and I'm currently an MBA student at [School] exploring a pivot into consulting. I came across your profile and really admired your path into [Firm]. I wanted to ask if you would be willing to hop on a phone call or meet up for coffee sometime to tell me about your experiences working in [company]'s division. Please let me know if you have 10-15 minutes to speak, and thank you for considering this request.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn:
Hi [Name], I really enjoyed hearing your insights at the [Firm] info session yesterday—thank you for speaking! I’d love to ask a few follow-up questions if you’re open to a quick chat.
Email Subject: Great hearing you at [Event Name] – quick follow-up?
Hi [Name],
Thanks again for speaking at the [Event Name]—I appreciated your insights, especially around [specific takeaway]. I’m currently exploring consulting and was hoping to ask a few follow-up questions about your experience at [Firm]. Would you be open to a short call sometime soon?
All the best,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn:
Hi [Name], I’m exploring consulting roles and really admired your background at [Firm]. If you have time, I’d love to hear about your journey and any advice you might have.
Email Subject: Exploring consulting – would love your insights
Hi [Name],
I hope this note finds you well. I’m currently a [student/professional] exploring a move into consulting and came across your profile while researching [Firm]. Your path stood out to me, and I’d really appreciate the chance to ask you a few quick questions. Would you be open to a brief 15-minute call sometime soon?
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn:
Hi [Name], [Mutual connection] suggested I reach out to you. I’m exploring consulting and would love to hear more about your work at [Firm] if you have a few minutes to chat.
Email Subject: Reaching out via [Mutual Connection]
Hi [Name],
I was speaking with [Mutual Connection], and they suggested I reach out to you. I’m currently [year/role] and exploring opportunities in consulting. They mentioned you’ve had a great experience at [Firm], and I’d really appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your role and any advice you might have.
Would you be open to a quick call sometime soon?
Warmly,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn:
Hi [Name], I’m pivoting into consulting from a [your background] background and was inspired by your similar path. Would love to learn more if you're open to a short chat!
Email Subject: From [background] to consulting – learning from your path
Hi [Name],
I came across your profile while researching professionals who made the jump into consulting from a non-traditional background. I’m currently [studying/working in] [Your Field] and am hoping to make a similar move. I’d love to hear more about how you navigated the transition and any advice you’d be willing to share.
Would you be open to a 15-minute call in the coming days?
Best,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn:
Hi [Name], I’m a [sophomore/junior] exploring consulting long-term and would really value your perspective on how to prepare—would you be open to a quick chat?
Email Subject: Preparing for consulting – quick call?
Hi [Name],
I’m a [year] at [School] starting to explore a potential career in consulting. I came across your profile and was impressed by your experience at [Firm]. I’d love to ask a few questions about how you prepared and what you wish you had known earlier.
If you’re open to it, would you have 10–15 minutes to chat sometime soon?
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
LinkedIn:
Hi [Name], thank you again for speaking with me last month! I just wanted to share a quick update and say how helpful your advice has been.
Email Subject: Thanks again – quick update
Hi [Name],
I really appreciated our conversation a few weeks ago. I wanted to follow up and let you know that I’ve [applied to/interviewed with] [Firm] and found your advice incredibly helpful in shaping my approach.
I’ll be sure to keep you posted, but just wanted to say thank you again!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Once you’ve scheduled a networking chat, your goal is simple: make it a meaningful, two-way conversation. The best networking calls don’t feel like interviews—they feel like authentic, curious conversations between two people with shared interests. That starts with asking the right questions. Before the call, take 10–15 minutes to review the person’s background (LinkedIn, company bio, etc.) and write down 8–10 personalized questions. Aim to focus on their experience—not just generic questions about the firm. This shows you’ve done your homework, respect their time, and are genuinely interested in learning from them—not just checking a box.
About their personal journey:
About daily work and projects:
About firm culture and differentiation:
For recent hires:
If you're talking to someone senior:
Your networking doesn’t end when the call does—in many ways, that’s when it really begins. Following up helps reinforce the connection, shows professionalism, and turns a one-time conversation into a long-term relationship. Here’s a simple but powerful three-touch follow-up strategy you can use:
Timing: Send it within 24 hours—ideally the same day.
Goal: Show gratitude, reinforce the connection, and recap anything useful or actionable.
What to include:
Example:
Hi [Name],
Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me today. I really appreciated hearing about your experience transitioning from undergrad into consulting—your insights on [specific topic] were especially helpful.
I’ll definitely take your advice on [X] as I move forward with my recruiting prep. If you come across any other resources you think are worth checking out, I’d love to see them.
Hope we can stay in touch,
[Your Name]
Timing: When you hit a milestone (applied, got an interview, etc.)
Goal: Keep them in the loop, show that their advice had real impact, and deepen the connection.
What to include:
Example:
Hi [Name],
I just wanted to share a quick update—I recently applied to [Firm] and really appreciated your advice as I finalized my resume and cover letter. Your point about [specific advice] helped me tailor my materials more effectively.
Just wanted to say thank you again. I’ll be sure to keep you posted as the process unfolds!
Best,
[Your Name]
Timing: Once the conversation has cooled down—but before it goes cold.
Goal: Keep the relationship alive without asking for anything. Ideally, this becomes an occasional check-in rhythm over months or years.
What to include:
Example:
Hi [Name],
Hope you're doing well! I saw this article on [industry trend] and immediately thought of our conversation about [topic]. Figured I’d pass it along in case you hadn’t seen it.
Things are going well on my end—I’ve been working on [project/role/school update] and continuing to prep for consulting interviews.
Just wanted to say hi and stay in touch. Hope everything’s great at [Firm]!
Best,
[Your Name]