What are some facts/things only an experienced (>3 yrs) BCG consultant would know about the firm?

I wish I knew that strategy consultants don't do analysis. They are story-tellers.

Researchers, scientists, PhD candidates, Economists, etc. do analysis. Strategy consultants quickly come to conclusions without much data/statistical rigor/consideration of all elements….so that they can spend more time on the persuasion/conciseness piece!

Relatedly, 95% of the job is powerpoint and stakeholder management.

Caveat/Note: There still value here and there is still immense learning and professional development. Just not in the way that is always advertised.

What do you wish you knew when you started :)

More seriously:

• How has your job experience changed?
• What has the promotion process been like for you?
• What do you think are factors in longevity at BCG?
• How is the office / firm dealing with X?  (where X is a recent dynamic, such as COVID, supporting diversity, something office- or country-specific, etc.)

I have always found that asking people about their own experience with anything that you find interesting or important is the only question you need to ask.  The websites are so thorough and there is so much information out there, all individuals can really add is what is their individual perspective.

Hope this helps,

Allen

• Apply 80/20 in literally everything (except in filling out expenses)
• If you are doing something in 3+ clicks in PPT - there is mostly a macro for it hidden somewhere in the BCG toolbar
• Trust the system - the firm is there to help you succeed - keep learning and improving
• Don't burn out - its a marathon, not a sprint