I have joined a big 4 as a grad (almost 3 months now) and I am hating it. I am not using my brain at all, doing low-level tasks. I am dying bit by bit every day. I do not feel inspired by people that surround me. It is not real work that is valued, it is more the ass-kissing/bullshiting skill. I clearly made a mistake in joining consulting. What should I do? Anyone else in a similar situation? Is it too early to consider other career options? Would I come across as being an unreliable candidate? Or should I be a bit more patient? But then, if I do, I will be branded as consultant and will find it difficult to move in other fields. Any thoughts please? I am utterly confused.

I think you should wait it out. Most grads do not get the best work straight away. You have to work your way up. Big companies have lots of people all waiting to progress and you must accept that you are at the bottom of a long pile. You are quite simply a bottom-feeding grad. Have no fear though - a year or two down the line you might get a sniff of an exciting project. Welcome to the world of work.

Mate we are all in the same boat I joined a medium sized firm strategy consulting they basicly wanted a walking photo copier to take notes. I got out after 6 months as I was so bored it was unreal it will be nearly 2 years before they let you tie your own shoe laces. Look on the bright side learn what you can and remember your in one of the big 4 get out after 3 years do an MBA and move on or jump ship next year when the milkround comes up again and go into industry.

I feel exactly the same except that the work doesn't appear to get any more exciting as you move up!I've been applying for next years grad intake in other industries or going back to uni for a masters. Currently at a big 4.