So does anyone who actually works at a major consulting firm (big 4 or MBB) or other top tier 2 firms have a good work life balance/realistic work expectations and semi-caring managers? Or is it really all just cutthroat and ruthless everywhere?

Have an offer to go to a series B startup with about 200 total employees. Base comp 275k vs 215k at D. Up for SM this year (second try). Have a strong network. Debating whether slow and steady is the way or if I should shoot my shot and take the risk of startup life. Anyone with experience making that jump? Married with two kids in elementary school if that matters.

Would you take a pay cut from $205K base to $180K base to go fully remote + can live wherever (from 2 days in office in NYC).

Job search check-in: I've had 4 real interviews in the past 2 months (not phone screens). Made it to final round for 3. Two went with internal candidates, the third had me competing against a whole cohort for limited spots. Two were top tech companies, two were mid-sized firms. Getting these interviews took serious work-networking, referrals, outreach. Final round three times and still no offer is discouraging, but I'm staying on it. Anyone else grinding through this?How's it going for you?

I hear Accenture is going through tough times. Things are difficult at McKinsey as well. Losing talent everywhere. Recent graduates are not looking at McKinsey or Accenture as best careers. How long will this last?