Got promotion in current job

Hi there,

Your situation sounds interesting indeed,

First, I would consider the 6-month visiting Associate phase as a trial period for you at BCG, which I agree may not be the best position to be in, especially if you have prior professional experience, however, I would take it as a probation period (normal at all companies).

Now, what I personally would do is definitely speak to BCG to clarify with them the next steps after you have completed the trial period (you transition to full-time as an associate, get promoted, or whatever suits your position), noting that the visitor associate salary is about 75-80% of the full-time associate salary.

Finally, whether you decide to stay at your current job or transition to consulting is up to you and what you prioritize on the personal and professional levels,

Happy to discuss this further, feel free to reach out,

Best,
Fady

Hello,

Very interesting questions and without a straightforward answer/solution. Let' think for yourself on the pro's and con's of each choice. Try to get more clarity on the future outlook and next steps for each role. Reflect on what you value most in your career and life on the longterm, and which role aligns best with those values. If you decide to make the change to consulting, try to keep a good relationship with your current employee, as there is always the option to go back (in another role). 

Happy to further elaborate on the pro's and con's.

Mattijs

Hi there,

This is a tricky spot, but it comes down to priorities.

First, ask yourself: Do you want consulting badly enough to take the short-term hit of the Visiting Associate role? If your long-term goal is to join BCG full-time, this role gives you a foot in the door. Many people take temporary or lower-paying positions at top firms to prove themselves, and it often pays off in the long run.

That said, you’re right to feel undervalued given your experience. Here’s one option (not saying this is the best for you...I'm not your coach so I cannot give the best advice for you based on your values, situation, etc...none of us can...so be careful with free advice, and consider getting a coaching session for this):

1. Reach out to BCG HR: Politely explain the situation. Mention the PMO Manager offer, your concerns about the salary, and ask if there’s flexibility in the Visiting Associate terms. Phrase it as a discussion, not a demand.
2. Be strategic: Don’t position this as a take-it-or-leave-it ultimatum. Frame it as, “I’m fully committed to BCG, but I want to make this role sustainable for the long term.”

Worst case? They say no, and you stick with the Visiting Associate role and use it to crush expectations. Best case? They might adjust your package or fast-track you to a full-time role.

Either way, don’t burn bridges—BCG’s brand is worth a lot, and if consulting is your dream, this could still be the right stepping stone.

Good luck! Let me know if you need help drafting the message to HR or making a decision

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the internship offer from BCG!

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

• First of all, yes, I would advise you to inform BCG HR about your internal job offer and share your concerns about the temporary position and the comparatively low salary. While I don't think it will change your position, I would always give it a try and see the outcome.
• Moreover, please keep in mind your long-term career goals and the potential impact of each option. Working at BCG, even temporarily and at a lower salary, could help you in future consulting applications or even in getting a return offer from BCG itself.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hey there, 

I think the answer to this questions rests with balancing what your long term goals are and short term needs / circumstances. This will allow you to determine if a temporary pay-cut at BCG is worth it as it would help put your 'foot in the door' to set you up for long term success (if this is line with your aspirations and goals). But if this is untenable and unsustainable for you in the short-term, it's difficult to accept. 

Definitely reach out and have a chat with recruiting and HR to assess what's possible given new circumstances. This should be pitched as an exploratory chat and not a take-it or leave-it situation

All the best

Hi there,

First, congratulations on receiving offers from both BCG and your current company—it’s always a good sign when you have multiple opportunities to choose from.

Here’s how I’d approach your situation:

1. Evaluate What You Want Long-Term

Think about where you want to be in 2–3 years.

• If consulting is your ultimate goal, the Visiting Associate role at BCG can be a great foot in the door, even if the salary feels undervalued. Successfully completing this role could lead to a Junior Associate offer, which sets you on the path for long-term career growth.
• On the other hand, the PMO Manager role might offer better short-term financial stability and recognition, but consider if it aligns with your long-term aspirations.

2. Renegotiate with BCG (Tactfully)

If you feel undervalued, it’s worth having a conversation with HR to clarify the terms of your Visiting Associate role. Here’s how you can approach it:

• Be honest and professional: Let them know you’ve received another offer and are reconsidering.
• Focus on your value: Emphasize your skills and commitment to BCG and ask if there’s flexibility in the role’s compensation or progression timeline.

Keep in mind that while consulting firms are often firm with initial offers, they respect candidates who advocate for themselves.

3. Make a Decision Based on Growth Potential

If you’re passionate about consulting, the experience you gain at BCG could outweigh the short-term financial trade-off. However, if you feel the PMO role offers better recognition and aligns more with your goals, it’s okay to prioritize that instead.

Whatever you decide, remember that both opportunities reflect the value of your experience and skills. Good luck—and feel free to reach out if you need further advice!