Switching Bain to McKinsey/BCG

I'm a McK Alum. I honestly don't feel like there is any real prestige difference nor any difference in exits. Just go where you feel most comfortable.

Not worth it considering you are dropping relationships at Bain to develop new ones at McK/BCG. The only reason I could understand the switch would be due to geography

OP - Are you based in the US? Do you want to stay in the US?

If so, agree with everyone else that it's not (generally) worth it for exit opps, unless you feel that you would enjoy the other firms better.

Internationally, Bain is generally much weaker so might be worth making the switch, although it depends on geography. In that case, it should be pretty straightforward: - Get a return offer from Bain (IMPORTANT - if you don't get an offer, you are damaged goods) - Reach out to contacts / recruiters at BCG + McK - Go through the interview process

Agree with comments above. Doesn't hurt recruiting for McKinsey/BCG to see what offers you get and compare. Rather than prestige and exit opps, I'd focus on the actual consulting experience. Three things to keep in mind - office culture, staffing model, and career progression.

Generally go with what company/office you think you identify with. If you have great relationships and like the feel, it'll make for a great work experience.

Staffing model - it's just different across the three firms so depends on what your cup of tea is.

Career progression with consulting - youll have more of an opportunity to get to EM at McK than Manager at Bain. So if speeding up the ranks appeals to you, McK could definitely be appealing. I'm at Bain and its rare to get early promotes. Standard promotions, you're looking at around 5-6 years to manager. McK folks, correct me if I'm wrong- but you could get to EM is shorter time if you're a super star.

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