Should I apply as an associate or as a consultant at Bain?

Question

Hi everyone,

I plan to apply soon to Bain in Zurich. I see two positions for which my background could fit: Associate consultant or consultant. I have a PhD in chemical biology and 2.5 years experience in a biotech start-up.

From the requirements, it seems that I could apply directly to consultant. However, I'm just wondering if I'd have higher chances to make it in if I would apply as associate.

What would you do?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Answer 1

Hi there,

I would recommend applying for the more senior role, as your background. Bain has a great coaching culture, so even at the consultant level, you'll receive plenty of support.
The interview process is the same for both positions, and if they believe you should start as an associate, they'll inform you during the process. If that happens, be sure to negotiate a fast-track promotion clause in your contract.

Go for it, and good luck with your application!

Have a lovely Sunday,
Kairavee

Answer 2

Hi there,

Based on your educational background and experience, I’d suggest you go ahead and apply for the Consultant position.

If they believe you’re better suited for Senior Associate, they’d inform you during the process. Once you get an offer, you can negotiate some tenure (for potential earlier promotion) after receiving the offer.

Fathu

Answer 3

Based on your background, it sounds like you're well-qualified to be a consultant. Do consider that the recruitment process is the same for both positions, so I would recommend applying directly to the consultant role.

If they feel you need a bit more experience to be a consultant, they would likely suggest starting as a senior associate. It's better to aim high, and they'll guide you if necessary.

Best of luck with your application!

Mattia

Answer 4

Hi there,

Entry-level roles are not something you can choose but you will be requested to apply to the suitable role based on your profile, which would be the Consultant role in your case.

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 5

Apply for the more senior role. To be honest, I believe you may be more adequate to the Senior Associate Consultant role (i.e. experienced Associate), but it doesn't matter what I think - you apply to the more senior role and if THEY think that a lower rank is more adequate, they'll suggest that.

By applying to the higher rank role (in this situation), you won't be hurting your chances to get an interview IMHO.

Answer 6

Hi there,

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

First of all, I would advise you to apply for the Consultant role if you think your qualifications match. If the recruiter thinks differently, they will inform you either at the beginning or during the interview process.
Moreover, even if the expectations of an applicant for the Consultant role may potentially be marginally higher compared to the Associate Consultant role, there are so many other factors that influence your chances of success that I would highly advise you not to “game the system”.

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 Bain interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 7

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Answer 8

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