Differences between Senior BA & BA in ATK

Hi Anonymous,

I don’t have direct experience with ATK, but as general rule for MBB the differences between BA and SBA are the following:

• Better client relationship skills – assumption you could be left with a client without major alignment and collect the required information/ material
• Better output delivery (analysis/slides) – less mistakes, faster delivery
• More reliability in terms of coworkers/supervisor relationships – better listening and communication skills, ability to potentially lead junior resources if/when needed

Unless you have consulting experience, starting as SBA will place at initial slight disadvantage compared to someone who did the classic 2-year period as BA (at the bare minimum you don’t know the classic firm internal procedure). However, there is no reason to worry – key thing is to keep a humble attitude and follow some best practice. Specifically, I would suggest the following:

1. Take notes when your manager tells you something – this will help you to remember details and will show you care about them to the team.
2. Ask for feedback every two-three weeks – this will show you are proactive and willing to learn.
3. Always double check. First impression is very important in consulting: if you show you are reliable from the beginning, you will create a reputation of a reliable person.
4. Ask for help when you don't know what to do – better to let know you are in trouble with meeting a deadline then missing the deadline.
5. Be social and respectful with the support staff – these people are great and influential as well in the company.

Best,

Francesco