Before the application, prioritize the activities that improve your chance of getting into the process while keeping enough case preparation underway that you are not starting from zero later.

For a non-target candidate, networking can help recruiters understand your profile and can create referral opportunities. But an interview invitation is only useful if you are prepared to perform once it arrives.

If applications open in four weeks, you might spend the first two weeks increasing targeted outreach while doing shorter case drills, then shift more time toward full case practice as the application and interview window gets closer.

Work backward from the application deadline. Set a minimum weekly case routine, then use the remaining prep time for focused networking with people in your target offices rather than trying to maximize the number of conversations. If useful, this guide on consulting application strategy gives more detail.

Networking gets you noticed, but you still need enough casing to not panic if the invite comes.