Hi. I have been accepted to several Russell Group schools for a MSc in International Human Resource Management. I was planning to do a career in HR, so I started working as a headhunter last year. But the more people I meet, the more fascinated I have become with management/strategy consulting. Perhaps in the future, I may continue my career in HR, but for the next 5-10 years (or more? who knows), I really want to pursue management or strategy consulting.My question(s): After my MSc, what can I do to make myself more attractive to these firms? For example, further education? More work experience? ...Or am I most attractive right after graduating? (I will finish my degree at age 29) I imagine that working in an HR department or doing HR consulting for a few years after my degree will only HURT my chances, but what about doing an MBA or PhD (in business psychology) after my MSc?In retrospect, I wish I applied to an MBA program instead of an HR-related MSc, but that's fine. I'll get excellent CIPD-accredited education. I can still apply for an MBA for 2016 if I want, but I don't know if I should.Please offer some insight if you can. I would greatly appreciate it!

Firstly, if you don't want to go into HR, then why are you studying a HR degree? Wouldn't it be better to do something more relevant?Secondly, do you have any work experience? At age 29, you'll possibly be considered a career academic if you've just been collecting degrees.Thirdly, I'd advise not saying things like "I have become fascinated by strategy consulting". Trust me, recruiters have heard that line 200,000 times before, just as they have heard "I feel I am ideally suited to strategy consulting". Say something unique about you and what you can bring to the party. Talk about your skills and what you can do that will help them to deliver consultancy projects.I hope this helps a little

[quote]I'd advise not saying things like "I have become fascinated by strategy consulting". Trust me, recruiters have heard that line 200,000 times before, just as they have heard [/quote]200,001 thanks to you Bushy :)

Hi It is definitely a possibility , I graduate with an HR CIPD and gained experience within the same , up until last year I was working in an HR Partner role but had been involved in a lot of M& A , restructuring , Shared services kind of projects. and will soon be joining as a Consultant, once you get in , I'd suggest gain some consulting experience & look to move around in strategy projects. The Big 4's & other large consulting firms do look for Industry experienced candidates for their HR /Human Capital practice. But just a qualification won't cut it, be actively involved in gaining some experience through project work , contracts etc. That could add weight to your CV. look into the roles advertised by some of the consulting firms, what kind of experience/qualifications are they after and put that together in a plan. Then work towards it!! Hope this helps.Thanks PJ