MBB Digital: Maximize application chances?

Hi there,

The difference between the two paths is basically generalist vs. specialist. Question is whether you have to apply for one or the other, or whether you can do both - do you know?

What this comes down to is your specific background and career ambitions. Generalist roles are the default path for most candidates that BCG attracts. As for digital specialist, you should consider the following.

• Specific background: Do you have experience in digital, and if so, how much and how deep? You will be expected to have had quite a bit of exposure in the field. If you're junior, this could include hobbies/extra-curricular activities in digital. If you're unsure, you're probably more suited for the generalist role
• Career ambitions: Specialist roles have a somewhat different career trajectory and philosophy. Importantly, you could still become a Partner. However, the way there is different with lots of smaller engagements where you contribute with your expertise as needed, as opposed to leading engagements beginning to end. If you're only interested in doing a few years in consulting and don't plan a career in digital, I would almost always recommend the generalist track, which offers an amazing learning curve that will turn you in a highly desired professional suited for many areas.

Hope this helps a bit. Best of luck!

The answer to this question can improve the odds of you getting in if it is asked specifically by a recruiter (either at MBB or an external recruiter looking at hiring for specific roles in MBB). In this instance it is likely that there is a high need for someone to fill this role quick and your profile is a good match.

If it is just a standard question on an application form it is likely to have limited bearing on your chances of getting in but can inform which role you end up interviewing for.

Best,

Udayan

Hi there, 

as a BCGer I would say depending on your experience in digital. Joining digital part at BCG requires really a deep expertise in such field plus you need to pass all the other steps as generalist. If you are not expert in digital I would rather go for generalist role.

It is important to remember that even if there is a huge need for a new staff, MBB dont compromise on any applicants, you must be the best in all the aspects, otherwise you wont pass. 

Good luck

Lucie

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Hi there,

Do you have digital/tech experience?

If you do not, then you should probably put “no”. This won't be “easier” because you'll be expected to know these topics and be evaluated against peers who know these topics.

If you do have a solid background + understanding in Digital topics, then putting yes can increase your odds.

That said, try not to be so short-sighted as to say “I'll do anything just to be at BCG”. Apply to the role that you want. If you like Digital, and have experience, check that box! If you don't like Digital and/or don't have experience, don't check that box!

Good luck!

Hi there, 

It's difficult to say, but it's a certainty that the digital arms of MBB are growing faster than the generalist part. Also, there might be overall less people who are applying for digital roles. On the other hand, within those who are applying, the competition can be tougher and if you don't have any digital background then you'll quickly fall to the bottom. My suggestion is that if you don't have a digital background then it's better to apply for a generalist track. 

If you have a digital background, purely in terms of numbers, you may have a higher chance than attempting the generalist pool.  Digital practices do vary by firm/office where some will come with the expectation that you will specialise which may/may not be what you want and so I would also take that into consideration.

Hi there, 

thanks for the question - very relevant to many candidates here in this forum.

Will it improve your chances? Not really. While Digital is definitely a strong growth area for BCG, other sectors are developing very nicely as well. I'd say, it's a very good time to apply in general, so would not worry too much.

In terms of recruiting process, it will not be easier. The overall evaluation dimensions will be largely the same, so is the recruiting process. Only real difference is that to be attractive for a BCG Digital role some relevant digital / tech experience will be required. This may also be tested in select case interviews.

Feel free to reach out via PM, if you'd like to learn more how to fine-tune your CV and optimize your chances to get interviews as well as pass them.. I'm an ex-BCG interviewer and CV screener -  should be able to give you very specific guidance, tailored to the office you'd like to applying to. Happy to chat.

Cheers, Andi 

Hello!

It truly depends on demand and supply for that specific office. It would be great for you to connect with someone from BCG in that location to gain some insight (either a coach here, that would be amazing, or networking). 

Cheers, 

Clara