Would it be overkill or considered tacky if I wore a green tie to my BCG interview?

Hi! 

This will have ZERO upside. But it can have a downside, if it is a really weird green. :-P (just joking - if it's a subtle, maybe darker green, it should be fine. But as I said, it won't have any positive impact)

Cheers, Sidi

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Dr. Sidi S. Koné

Former Senior Engagement Manager & Interviewer at McKinsey | Former Senior Consultant at BCG | Co-Founder of The MBB Offer Machine™

Hi there!

Actually, I think there's a higher probability that it will help rather than harm. 

Subconsciously, we have certain associations to certain colours. BCGers strongly associate green with the firm and their life there. Wearing a dark green tie could trigger this association. 

If you read the chapter ‘Liking’ from Robert Cialdini's book ‘Influence’, you'll see there's significant research showing that people prefer those who look LIKE them. So if wearing a suit already helps forge that connection compared to wearing shorts. As a next level, wearing colours that are more closely associated can also help a bit. 

Needless to say, this won't significantly move the needle, but it's fun addition.

Best of luck with your interview! Go green! :)

Best,
Cristian

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Hi,

I was an interviewer for 5 years at BCG. I don't remember what any of my interviewees wore. Because frankly it didn't matter. I remembered candidates that I didn't pass (because they were very personable), but the reality is that I have also passed some candidates that I don't really remember anymore. 

Go ahead and do it - but note that your actual performance matters alot more :)

Hi there,

100% agree with Sidi.

All downside without upside. I love this for a tech firm/startup, but not for a large established player/consultancy.

Ultimately, do what you want/feel comfortable with, but I personally would not.

Here's some more reading on dos/don'ts in the interview:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/dos-and-donts-in-a-case-interview

Hi there,

Q: Would it be okay to wear a green tie for my BCG interview.

I don’t think it will provide any advantage, but if it fits your outfit naturally (not necessarily easy with green) there is not something specifically wrong with it.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hello,

It's a fun idea! But I think you're overthinking this - I don't think it would make you stand out or seem memorable (unless you deliberately point it out or something) in either a good way or a bad way. So, there's really not much effect in my opinion.