Why Bain?

If you have some time and connection, suggest you talk to a few Bainies and/or Bain alumni, to ask them why they chose Bain, what they like most about Bain. I guess culture would be the top reason, while there might also be something else.

During your interview you can tell the interviewer that you had these conversations and thus you think Bain is the right place for you. It shows that you are really serious, you did your homework and your answer well thought-through and not just cliche.

Those conversations (esp with Alumni because they have no reason to sugarcoat) actually would be very helpful for you to decide whether you would like the company or not.

Dear Sebastian,

To complement prior answer, which is already comprehensive, it would be great to highlight the culture of the firm and how it might fits your profile.

Focus on this alignment and elaborate how do you see it as a key driver that convince you that being with Bain is where you see yourself growing.

Culture here should refer to not only the size of the firm that makes the members potentially have a tighter relationship, but also their ways of working, communication style, approach to relationship building (among each others and with clients), and inspiring leaderships within the firm.

Hope it helps.

Kind regards,
Nathan

(edited)

Hi,

Here are some ideas that you can use to structure your thoughts:

• You can start with general facts about the local office. Something like “Sidney office is the fastest growing McKinsey office worldwide.”
• If you have an interest in a particular industry or client this may also be a great reason. For example, BCG can be the only consulting firm working with airlines in your region.
• Company x is opened for PHDs, Alums of Y, etc and you know may examples
• You may address the different Global opportunities and office initiatives. E.g. international staffing can be a good opportunity to learn about business in a particular country
• Try to combine professional and Non-business rational. If you have friends working in that company, don’t forget to mention them and what you’ve learned from their experience.
• You may use your other personal experiences like working with this BCG, it's deliverables or as it's client
• You can provide your personal experience of working with McKinsey Alums
• McKinsey women / LGBT / etc. initiatives
• You have friends working at X - all the great people and you are more than happy to join them

Good luck!

There are numerous reasons for somebody to join Bain - and all depend on personal situation and priorities. What made the difference for me (and made me turn down offers from other MBBs and 2nd tier firms) was the strong, supportive culture and the much stronger personal FIT with Bain over the other firms.

Everybody has to define personally what's important for them and then assess which firm matches those priorities best ;)

Hi Sebastian,

Answering this question, you need to highlight that you share the same values with the company. Point out the reasons - why you are a good fit for them and how you see your future within the firm.

If you think you do not have enough information to give a good answer, you have to do some networking. Find contacts of Bain alumni or present consultants, ask for their honest feedback to form your own authentic opinion you could share answering "Why Bain?".

I would also recommend mentioning the atmosphere and that you've liked communicating with people who work there.

Do you need any further help?
GB

Dear A,

To give proper answer o this question you can:

- Look better at thei webpage and read about their positioning, external and internal policies

- Network and find connections with the people in Bain to ask their ideas and advice

Best,
André