Dress code - BCG

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the progress in the application process with BCG thus far!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• First of all, understanding the company culture is key. BCG tends to have a professional yet modern approach to dress code. For men, a suit and shirt are standard. However, the necessity of a tie can vary depending on the office location and the specific context of your interview.
• Moreover, I would advise you to opt for a more formal approach for your first impression. A tie can add a touch of professionalism and shows that you take the interview seriously. It's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed in such scenarios.
• Lastly, consider the local office culture. If you have any contacts within BCG or can reach out to the recruiter, don't hesitate to ask for specific advice regarding the office you're interviewing at.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

While dress codes can vary, especially depending on the location and the specific office culture, wearing a tie to an onsite interview at BCG is generally a safe and recommended choice. Consulting firms like BCG typically have a professional and formal dress code, and wearing a tie demonstrates that you take the interview seriously and respect the formality of the occasion.

Here are some general tips on dressing for a consulting interview, which you can apply to your onsite interview at BCG:

Business Professional Attire:

• Wear business professional attire, which typically includes a suit, dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes.

Conservative Colors:

• Stick to conservative colors for your suit and tie, such as navy, charcoal, or black. Your shirt and tie can provide a bit more room for expressing personal style.

Well-Groomed Appearance:

• Ensure that your clothes are clean, well-pressed, and that you present a polished and well-groomed appearance.

Attention to Detail:

• Pay attention to the details, such as matching your belt with your shoes and choosing a tie that complements your overall outfit.

Minimal Accessories:

• Keep accessories to a minimum. Avoid flashy jewelry or accessories that may be distracting.

Comfort:

• Ensure that you are comfortable in what you are wearing, as this will boost your confidence during the interview.

Remember, it's always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed for a consulting interview. Consulting firms place a high value on professionalism, and your attire is one of the first impressions you'll make. If you are ever in doubt about the dress code, it's perfectly acceptable to ask your recruiter or contact at BCG for guidance.

Ultimately, the goal is to present yourself as a polished and professional candidate who is well-prepared for the interview process. Good luck with your interview at BCG!

Hi there,

I personally wore a tie. I would recommend it for an interview - in general, it's better to be 1 level to dressed rather than 1 level not enough. That said, do what makes you feel most comfortable.

Hi there,

Q: Is the tie necessary?

Unless they indicated a different dress code, I would recommend wearing a tie. It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed and you have nothing to lose by wearing a tie. 

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

Answer is simple: just ask your recruiter :) 

Dress code varies across offices so you never know. If you can't ask, just follow my colleagues' advice and wear the tie. It's better to be overdressed.

Good luck with the interview!

Alberto

—

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

Hi,

You could check with HR on what is the expectations.

Speaking from experience as an interviewer for 5 years at BCG, I never once cared if someone was wearing a tie or not. I really only cared about their performance in the interview itself.

If you are feeling worried about it, just wear a tie and don't stress out about it any more - there are plenty more important things to focus your mental energy on :)

Hi there,

it depends on the geography I found. In the US, ties were not common in the day-to-day project work, in Germany they were. When it comes to recruiting though, as a candidate you should wear a tie. Simply because you limit the potential downside of ending up underdressed. Wearing a tie won't increase your chances of getting an offer, but not wearing one might reduce your chances. So better play it safe.

Best of luck

Wear it. 

It's better to be overdressed than underdressed. 

I spent 5 years at Mckinsey, most of which were without a tie. But I also had a couple of projects where wearing a suit was a faux pas (e.g., tech / digital) or illegal (e.g., mining), and others where not wearing a tie was a faux pas (e.g., banking board meeting). 

If anything, for this sort of event, always wear a tie. It never hurts. 

Best of luck!
Cristian