The Strategy Skills Podcast: Strategy | Leadership | Critical Thinking | Problem-Solving

515: McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Deloitte, PwC et al. Consulting Job Application Office Selection

Jan 6, 2025

Choosing the right office location for consulting careers can shape your future. Familiarize yourself with cultural fits and support systems in various regions. Emerging markets present unique challenges and opportunities, differing from developed economies. Established locations like Germany offer advantages, but face issues like the 'cool partner syndrome.' Language skills are crucial for international roles, especially in Europe and North Africa. The decision to stay local or go global requires careful consideration of professional growth and experience.

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Quick takeaways

Selecting the right office location in consulting is crucial for career growth, balancing hometown stability with the benefits of international experience.

Adapting to local culture and building a support system are essential for success when relocating for a consulting position in emerging markets.

Deep dives

Choosing the Right Office Location

Selecting the appropriate office location for a consulting job among firms like McKinsey or BCG is critical for career development. Candidates should carefully consider their options, weighing the benefits of applying to their hometown office against opportunities abroad for international experience. The decision process involves assessing the potential for becoming a better consultant through the experience gained in different cultural environments. Additionally, applicants should avoid relying solely on anecdotal experiences from friends, as these may not reflect the broader impact on their career trajectory.

Intro

7min

Navigating Consulting Careers in Emerging Markets

3min

Navigating Consulting Office Selections and Cultural Dynamics

2min

Navigating International Consulting Opportunities and Essential Training

3min

Today, we will answer a common question about how to determine office location preference to include on the consulting job application with firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Bain and when applying to firms like Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, et al. The thinking process will also be applicable when considering taking a leadership role in various parts of the world versus selecting a role in your hometown or closer to home.

Question we received from one of our subscribers:

“I’ve been told that the office locations you select on your full-time consulting job application can significantly impact your opportunities. I am considering applying to my hometown office (I am from the US) or applying to another country to get international experience. What is your advice on thinking about this and making a decision?” #McKinsey #consultinginterviews #caseinterview

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