Strategy Simplified S21E20: Bain Manager’s 2-Month Guide to MBB Prep (and What Candidates Miss)
Dec 10, 2025
In this conversation, Abby Chen, a former Bain manager and management consulting case coach, shares her journey from learning about consulting to landing a Bain offer in just two months. She reveals the secrets behind top candidates' success, emphasizing the importance of drills over full cases and a proactive feedback mindset. Abby also discusses her transition to entrepreneurship with her new venture, Harvest Moon Asian Kitchen, highlighting how she applies consulting principles to the restaurant business, from menu testing to customer feedback.
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Winning Buy-In Across Client Levels
- Abby described an airline IT transformation where mid-level managers initially resisted the project.
- The team secured buy-in across levels so the client could sustain the changes after consultants left.
Teams Now Include Data And Design
- Abby described a modern team mix that includes data analysts and designers.
- Consulting teams now blend disciplines beyond traditional consultant roles.
Think Like The Client
- Put yourself in the client's shoes during cases and consulting work.
- Proactively surface risks and next steps to show real consulting thinking.