Conversion Talking Points

Work Environment and Culture

100

How many hours do you need to work? Why that many? Why don’t you assign more people to a project? Don’t you have a high level of stress?

• We work on the highest-impact, most complex challenges for our clients, necessitating significant effort, implying a desire and need to put in the effort when needed, and working with client teams who put in a very significant effort themselves, especially during peak weeks (35 avg., 60–70 hours).
• We value you and your personal commitments. In general, we have no facetime. There is every opportunity to shape when and where you work based on your personal needs.
• Through PTO (Predictability, Teaming, Open) discussions we facilitate continuous conversations within teams to discuss when to work, how much to work, how to work together, how to reduce stress, etc.

200

How much do you work as a consultant at BCG?

• Work schedule varies from project to project; but it is definitely not a standard 9-5 job.
• Typically, work intensifies Monday to Wednesday with an aim to finish early on Thursday.
• There is flexibility which allows for personal time management, such as exercising during lunch or dinner hours.
• In return for working a lot, you get a steep learning curve and an opportunity to make an impact.

300

What is BCG's view on hybrid work?

• BCG embraces flexibility of hybrid work, allowing consultants to work from home as projects and schedules permit.
• On-site presence is essential when required by client priorities.
• We prioritize team alignment and cohesion, ensuring work approach supports collective goals and values.

400

How do you work with DE&I?

• Diversity and respect for individuals are core values at BCG.
• Several affiliation networks foster inclusion and actively drive the DE&I agenda:
  • Pride@BCG: Offers career development, mentorship, and networking for LGBTQ professionals.
  • Women@BCG: Facilitates career progression and networking to support women personally and professionally.
  • Colorful@BCG: A Nordic group dedicated to culturally or ethnically diverse individuals, creating opportunities for inclusion and cultural celebrations.

500

Why are there so few women in the Partner cohort?

t BCG, we recognize the importance of gender diversity at all levels of our organization. The current composition of our Partner cohort reflects historical trends that have influenced career paths over the years. Here are some key points to consider:

• Historical Low Intake: Historically, the intake of women at various levels in the consulting industry, including at BCG, was lower than it is today. This has had a long-term impact on the current representation of women in senior positions, such as Partners.
• Career Path Differences: Gender differences in career progression, particularly related to decisions around starting a family, have also influenced the current composition of our Partner cohort. Many women have historically faced challenges in balancing career advancement with family commitments, which can impact their progression to senior roles.
• Future Impact of Current Initiatives: The recruiting initiatives we are implementing now are designed to address these disparities. However, it will take time for these changes to be fully reflected in the Partner cohort, as career progression in consulting typically spans several years.
• Commitment to Gender Diversity: BCG is committed to increasing gender diversity across all levels of our organization. We have implemented several initiatives aimed at recruiting, retaining, and promoting gender balance. For example, we ensure a 50% intake of women at the Associate level, which is higher than for many future Leaders’ positions in other industries.
• BCG is dedicated to supporting all our employees in their career progression and creating an environment where everyone can thrive and succeed.

Career Development and Opportunities

100

Is BCG affected by the economic situation and recession? How does the current economic climate affect BCG’s people strategy?

• It’s a tough business climate, and that’s true for everyone.
• We and many others have grown significantly and rapidly for a very long time and the business climate has been tougher now but we are still a business that is growing, demonstrating resilience and strategic planning.
• The advantage of being a global company is that as regions, we can pull each other along; when one market is struggling, we can support each other in driving business.
• It’s very important to highlight that BCG has grown incredibly strongly over a long period, and we have not been significantly affected by fluctuations in economic cycles. Often, it’s quite the opposite. When times are tough for many companies, that’s when they need our help more than ever.
• Management consulting services are relevant in all business climates.
• It’s about being adaptable in how we can help our clients. Whether it’s finding ways to be more profitable during tough times or seizing opportunities when competition eases up, there’s always a need for solid advice.
• We take pride in being the firm that leadership teams across the globe want to partner with when times are tough.
• At BCG, we’ve been on a growth path (even in years where the business climate has been tough) and we’re planning to keep it that way.
• BCG remains a trusted partner for leadership teams globally, providing valuable advice during economic challenges.

200

What types of projects do you work on?

• BCG engages in a wide variety of industries from healthcare and technology to finance and consumer goods, etc.
• Projects involve different topics such as strategic planning, digital transformation, and operational improvements.
• Our commitment to innovation and excellence is reflected across all sectors.
• We do also collaborate with specialized teams such as BCG X and Platinion to enhance our delivery of tailored, impactful solutions.

300

Do you offer secondments? Do you require people to take an MBA?

• We offer all our employees an MBA after promotion to C – a huge opportunity, and we encourage you to take it.
• An MBA provides fast personal and content development, an extensive network, and a fresh, outside perspective.
• You can take an MBA at Insead, Harvard, LBS, Wharton, Stanford, Columbia, Booth, Sloan, Kellog, IESE.
• Only when asked: There is also an opportunity to gain experience through doing extended (6mo+) BCG projects abroad, and a (limited) opportunity to do a social impact secondment with our global partners.

400

Why does McK have faster promotion opportunities than you?

• At BCG, we believe in building a broad and comprehensive skill set from the start to ensure long-term success. Our promotion structure is designed to provide a well-rounded professional experience, emphasizing depth and versatility.
• BCG focuses on sustainable career growth, preparing our consultants with a robust toolkit for enduring success. This approach ensures our team members are thoroughly prepared for each career step, fostering both personal and professional excellence.

500

Why should I choose BCG over McK, Bain, etc.?

• We never speak negatively about our competitors, instead focus on positive aspects you've experienced.
• Choosing BCG offers numerous benefits:
  • Culture and Work Environment: BCG emphasizes an open and collaborative working style. It is known for its less hierarchical approach and supportive environment, ideal for team-oriented individuals valuing a strong sense of community.
  • Learning and Development: BCG heavily invests in staff learning and development with extensive training programs. Continuous learning ensures employees stay at the forefront of industry trends, valuable for lifelong learners.
  • Innovative and Creative Solutions: BCG fosters an innovative environment that encourages creative problem-solving. It attracts those wanting to engage in transformative projects with novel approaches and pioneering strategies.
  • Global Mobility with Localized Integration: BCG offers global mobility opportunities while maintaining strong local office cultures.
  • Customized Career Paths: BCG offers flexible career paths tailored to individual skills, interests, and goals. This personalized career development is a significant draw for consultants seeking tailored career progression.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: BCG is recognized for promoting an inclusive culture, with initiatives supporting women, minorities, and LGBTQ+ employees. This focus extends to leadership roles, fostering a diverse workplace.
  • Work-Life Balance Initiatives: BCG implements initiatives to improve work-life balance, including flexible working conditions and digital tools to streamline workflow. These efforts appeal to those valuing a balanced lifestyle.
  • Sustainability and Social Impact: BCG focuses on sustainability and social impact projects, addressing challenges like climate change, healthcare, and education. This commitment appeals to those passionate about making a societal impact beyond corporate success.

Employee Benefits and Support

100

What is the salary/are the benefits?

• Our compensation package (salary and benefits) is top of the market, we choose not to disclose details.
• BCG provides a fully supportive environment to help you perform best – in terms of salary and benefits (insurances, pension, etc.) but also terms of comfort (taking care of logistics, IT, etc.)

200

What does the international opportunities look like?

• BCG provides extensive opportunities to work across countries through cross-office staffing.
• Projects may involve short-term assignments in various countries.
• After gaining experience, employees can apply for various transfer programs, enhancing global exposure and career development.
• Also, we have a Nordic staffing model which means that travel across the Nordics is common.
• Your first months at BCG will typically be in your home office so that you can get up to speed and get to know your colleagues.

300

Do you have any case practice advice?

Answer this based on your own experience but we do encourage the following:

• Practice cases in-person (or virtual) with different people, and perhaps different backgrounds.
• All candidates get access to an online case database called CaseCoach where they can find cases to practice.
• Practice many different types of cases.
• Practice mental math on the go – e.g. on the bus or train. There are multiple apps to find.
• On our BCG careers website everyone have access to OneDay@BCG, a Virtual Experience Program which gives you a feel of what it is like to work as a management consultant at BCG.
• We have a thorough case practice guide for those candidates who are invited to interview.

400

I’ve applied but got a reject. When can I apply again?

• We recommend you waiting for 12 months until applying again.

500

VA | When can I do an internship?

• We offer internship start dates throughout the year, except during the summer and winter holidays.
• We usually accommodate your preferences. This flexibility ensures you can find a time that best fits your schedule.

Consulting Practices and Client Engagement

100

What does a typical day look like?

• A typical day varies significantly; Monday to Thursday are usually spent at client sites.
• Fridays are generally office days in your home office to affiliate with your home office.
• The day typically begins at 9 AM with a 15-minute team stand-up to align on priorities.
• Activities include working on specific tasks, aligning frequently with project leads and team members.
• The schedule includes a mix of fast-paced deadlines, meetings to discuss new findings, and sessions to present and engage with clients.

300

How many C&S cases are you doing in the Nordics?

• BCG offers numerous opportunities to work on Climate & Sustainability (C&S) cases within the Nordics.
• We have been involved in over 2,700 sustainability projects in the last three years.
• For those particularly passionate about C&S, you can apply to be ringfenced within this area, ensuring priority staffing on these projects.
• BCG’s commitment to sustainability extends to being a key consulting partner for global climate conferences (COP) and our ambitious goal of becoming climate positive by 2030.

400

Does BCG do Social Impact work?

To be updated

• We have dedicated 1M+ hours to social impact in the past decade. During 2023 did we have more than 2600+ BCG consultants helping clients drive social impact?
• Add examples such as Angel Investing? Drottning Silvias "CATCH" foundation, Rädda Barnen, WWF.

500

VA | Is the internship paid?

• Yes, it is (almost) the same as the entry level for A’s. We have one of the most competitive salaries for interns on the market.

Application Process and Internship Opportunities

100

Which educational backgrounds do you look for?

• We seek a diverse group of extraordinary individuals.
• For those that are starting with us with a non-business background with no prior business experience, we are offering business essentials training program.

200

What are some of the key competencies you look for?

• Analytical skills and proficiency with numbers.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Creativity in approaching tasks and challenges.
• Ability to work effectively within a team.
• Business acumen to understand and navigate complex scenarios.
• Excellent communication skills.

300

Do I need to have high grades?

• BCG does not require a specific grade average for interviews.
• We evaluate profiles holistically, considering educational achievements, extracurricular activities and job experience.

400

How many people do you recruit each year for VA- and FT-positions?

• It depends and we do not share exact numbers, but we recruit all year around and are always looking for high performing students.
• We are inviting candidates to apply when it suits their needs.

500

When can I apply?

Full-time and VA positions are open for application all year round.

• Recommends applying 6 – 12 months before you want to start at BCG both for full-time, as well as VA-positions.