BCG vs Bain in the US?

Question

Hi all, Wharton MBA student here who got 2 offers for BCG and Bain in the US (to not dox myself, will keep it fairly high level). I want to live in the city of the Bain's offer. BCG told me they would not be "actively hiring" for that city so I applied to other place which, although I like it, I am not as excited about.

Any chance i can ask BCG to "transfer" my offer to the Bain's city? I mean, worst case, I assume they say no... Is there a good or bad choice here? I am honestly more inclined towards Bain but I am such a rational person that I would love to feel I made a decision for XYZ arguments so that I never end up regretting it.

Of course, I can just ask BCG and see if they say yes about transferring my offer. However, if I do so, I feel that then I would have to say "yes" to them and "no" to Bain otherwise I would burn a bridge.

Answer 1

Hey! First of all congrats! :)

I think, it’s definitely worth asking BCG if they would consider transferring your offer to the city where you have Bain’s offer. As you said, the worst they can do is say no, and it won’t hurt to explore the possibility. However, if you ask and they say yes, it could put you in a position where you'd feel more committed to BCG, so be sure you’re comfortable with either outcome before you make the request. If you're leaning towards Bain because of the city and overall fit, that should weigh heavily in your decision-making. At the end of the day, both firms are prestigious, so it comes down to where you’ll thrive both professionally and personally.

Good luck with it! Alessa :)

Answer 2

Hi there,

I’d say go with your gut feeling on this one. Ask yourself, which interviewers did you feel more of a connection with? Which recruiting process felt more inclusive and aligned? These questions might help clarify where you feel a better cultural fit.

It might also be worth talking to 1-2 consultants at Bain and BCG to get more insights into their experiences and help you make a more informed decision. You can ask HR to put you in contact.

As for asking BCG about transferring to the city you prefer, there's no harm in trying. Just make sure you’re certain you would accept the BCG offer if they agree to the transfer. If Bain excites you more, then maybe that’s your answer already.

Ultimately, think about which firm and location genuinely gets you more excited. At the end of the day, the key is to trust your gut.

Have a great start whichever company you choose!

Kairavee

Answer 3

Competition over "cross-offers" like yourself is real, so BCG may offer you the choice if you tell them you're going with Bain because of location. But it's only worth putting it that way if you'll actually take BCG's new offer.

Answer 4

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Answer 5

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Answer 6

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