I have offers from both McKinsey and Bain, and I’m trying to decide between them.

Question

From what I understand, in Greece they work on very similar projects – often competing for the same RFPs, with one firm winning in some cases and the other in others.

I’m unsure which culture would be a better fit, since I had a good impression from both. I’m also concerned about work–life balance: Bain seems to offer more of it compared to McKinsey but Mckinsey seems to have stronger reputation - still not sure (Based in Greece).

How can I gather the right information on all these aspects to make the best decision?

Answer 1

Hi there,

You’re right that in Greece McKinsey and Bain often compete on very similar projects. The differences that will matter most for you tend to be culture, career trajectory, and lifestyle. To gather the right information before making your decision, you can take a structured approach:

1. Speak with insiders

Reach out to consultants at both firms in Athens (preferably at your tenure level and one level above). Ask targeted questions on:
• Culture – how collaborative vs. competitive the environment feels, how approachable partners are, whether teams are more “family-style” or more “formal.”
• Work–life balance – whether protected weekends or predictable hours are actually respected in practice, and how travel intensity compares.
• Development – mentoring, apprenticeship, and exit opportunities from Greece.

2. Compare reputations locally vs. globally

McKinsey may carry more global brand weight, but in Athens Bain has built strong client relationships in certain industries. Check with alumni or clients (if you can discreetly) to understand how each is perceived in the local business community.

3. Look at people’s paths

Search LinkedIn for Athens-based alumni of both firms. See:
• What industries they exit to (consulting, corporates, entrepreneurship, PE/VC)?
• How many have moved abroad using their firm’s network?
This will show you the “real” career springboards each offers from Greece.

4. Test cultural fit in practice

Think back to who you clicked with more during the interview process. Did you feel more comfortable, energized, or “yourself” with one group over the other? That gut feeling is often predictive of how you’ll feel on the job.

If you systematically gather this input from ~5–7 people across levels at both firms, you’ll have a clear view. At this point, either choice will set you up well; the key is to choose where you’ll thrive day-to-day.

Happy to advise further - feel free to reach out!

Best,

Evelina

Answer 2

You have to reach out to people working on those specific offices.

Answer 3

Hi there,

agree with Pedro. And typically the firms themselves will be very happy to put you on touch with people.

I had several lunches and touch points with firms before signing with BCG.

Best,
Lukas