What Is the Best Consulting Firm for Me?

Every consulting firm is unique. If you are interested in working in consulting, the available options include working for the typical strategy consultancies , more specialized boutique consulting firms, or for the so-called inhouse consultancies which are basically internal consulting firms of big companies. The big players in strategy consulting know how to set the tone by means of branding, demanding projects, internationality, and last but not least through attractive salaries. Boutique consultancies have the advantage that consultants may work in their favorite field in order to evolve into specialists. Inhouse consultancies are becoming more and more important for the job market, since employees are looking for more promising work-life-balance properties in their employers. Moreover, you'll be able to do your own networking in a big firm, and therefore lay a solid foundation for the transition into the later stages of your career.

What Are Necessary Skills for Me as a Consultant?

You'll have to bring certain abilities to the table, but it's about more than what's on your resume. Despite an excellent academic education, your future employer will also look for working experience, especially if acquired abroad. Particularly if you studied business/economics, you'll be expected to have at least two internships on your record when being interviewed.

Do I Need an MBA to Apply for a Job in Consulting?

While an MBA can be beneficial, it's not a strict requirement to apply for a consulting job. Consulting firms often seek candidates with diverse educational backgrounds, including natural sciences, medicine, and pharmacy. They highly value organized and analytical working behavior. Beyond educational qualifications, firms also emphasize soft skills such as communication abilities, self-confidence, and analytical skills. Even without significant practical experience, if you demonstrate these qualities, you could potentially be considered for consulting roles. Some firms may also offer workshops and mini-MBA programs to further develop your skills once hired.

What Are the Benefits While Working as a Consultant?

Working as a consultant offers several benefits. While the role often requires long working hours, especially for those starting their careers, it compensates with high salaries. Additionally, the experience you gain as a consultant can lead to promising career advancements and opportunities for personal development, extending beyond the realm of consulting. Many consultants leverage their experience to transition into roles in large industrial companies, smaller boutique consultancies, or startups, which can offer diverse career paths.

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Bain & Company

Strategy Consultancy

Wien, München, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt +2 others

>13,000 employees worldwide

Restructuring & Turnaround, Strategy, Finance, IT & Cyber, M&A, Marketing & Sales, Organization, Pricing, Process Management, Procurement, Supply Chain Management

Automotive, Energy, Finance, FMCG & Retail, Industrial Goods, Lifescience & Healthcare, Public Services, Telekommunications & Media, Transportation & Logistics

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Bain & Company: The Power of 4 – Dein Gap Year Programm

September 1st, 2025 - August 31st, 2026

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Application end date: December 8th, 2024

Noch keine Pläne für die Zeit nach dem Bachelorabschluss? The Power of 4 – Dein Gap Year Programm von Allianz, Bain & Company, Deutsche Telekom und FC Bayern ist die Möglichkeit für dich, in einem Jahr umfassende Praxiserfahrung zu sammeln.

Consulting Q&As About Bain & Company

I am having my R2 Bain London Interview coming up soon, does anyone have any resources/tips on how I can prepare for it?

Bain Interview preparation

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I have almost one year working experience as a business analyst at a boutique consulting firm and an MBA. Please inform me of the most suitable consulting role that I can apply at Bain Middle East office

Bain business analyst MBA

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Vinicius

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Ex-BCG Project Leader - BOS, Exp. Hire, Energy/Climate & Sustainability | Trained Interviewer | Free 15min Consultation

Vinicius

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gave the best answer on Nov 19, 2024

Ex-BCG Project Leader - BOS, Exp. Hire, Energy/Climate & Sustainability | Trained Interviewer | Free 15min Consultation

Assuming you have a full-time MBA from a top-ranking program, the Consultant (post-MBA) role would be the right one to target. With <1 year of consulting experience at a boutique firm, you won't have a case for a mor ... (read entire answer)

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