Boutique vs Big 4

Hi all,

I've moved from industry to consulting about 7 months ago working for a smaller consultancy as a SC. I'm doing quite well and I've got an offer to join Big 4, in the capability I really enjoy working as an M.

Should i take the offer (good capability, better money, M level, potentially more interesting projects) or stay in the boutique consultancy where I am where I've already settled and doing well?

Presumably if you're only 7 months in and you've already gone through an entire interview process for another job that's a hint in itself?

My view would be yes, for all the reasons below (including a promotion by the looks of it), and to get the name on the CV. Usually it's the other way around - get big brand then move to boutique. But as someone new to consulting it strikes me as logical to go to the 'best' firms. Another consideration is it depends on your specialism - is your boutique considered a leader in its field? If so, that's a reason to stay. If not, then jump to a bigger firm.

Worth considering what is important to you - the culture of the big firms is vastly different from industry & indeed boutique and it doesn't suit everyone (I speak as ex industry working in big firm).

Far from leader in the field, which is what made me look elsewhere in the first place.

Thanks for the reply, quite helpful.

or stay in the boutique consultancy where I am where I've already settled

You aren't settled. Why else would you be applying elsewhere?

Time to move on and take that M offer at Big 4.