What you should know about consulting firms before applying
Understanding consulting firms is an essential step before submitting your application. It's not enough to know that McKinsey, Bain, BCG, Accenture, or KPMG exist: each firm has its own culture, work style, career path, and selection process. Understanding these differences allows you to personalize your application, increase your chances of success, and, above all, choose the environment that truly fits you.
Understanding the firms will also help you better answer common interview questions such as 'Why consulting?' or 'Why this firm?'. In Crack the Interview Process, we detail that this research should not be done at the end of the process, but before applying. Identifying the values, areas of specialization, and types of projects at each firm will allow you to tailor your personal narrative with greater precision and credibility.
1. The importance of understanding each firm
Not all consulting firms are the same. Some prioritize strategic impact, others operational execution, or technical specialization. Understanding these differences is key for three reasons:
- Demonstrate preparedness and credibility: Recruiters value candidates who understand what their firm does and why they are interested in joining it.
- It helps you personalize your application: your cover letter and Fit stories should reflect the values and style of each firm.
- It guides you toward the right environment: culture and type of projects are as important as prestige or size.
A good piece of advice is to create a comparison sheet of firms and record information about their culture, sectors, types of projects, offices, and selection processes. This record will help you personalize your application and make informed decisions if you receive multiple offers.
2. Types of consulting firms
While there are hundreds of consulting firms worldwide, most can be grouped into four tiers based on their positioning, project types, and internal culture. This classification—presented in our guide, Crack the Interview Process—will help you understand the differences before applying.
• Tier MBB (strategy):
Includes
McKinsey & Company,
Boston Consulting Group, and
Bain & Company.
These are the most globally recognized strategy firms. They work directly with senior management on projects involving growth, profitability, mergers, acquisitions, and transformation. Their selection process is very demanding, and their culture is characterized by an analytical focus, meritocracy, and international opportunities.
• Tier Core (consulting as core business):
Includes
Strategy&,
Oliver Wyman,
Roland Berger,
Kearney and
LEK Consulting.
These firms combine high-level projects with practical execution and typically offer a demanding experience, with a wide variety of industries and international exposure. They are an ideal option for those seeking accelerated learning and early responsibility within established structures.
• Tier Non-Core (consulting within broader services):
This includes the consulting divisions of the Big Four —
Deloitte,
PwC,
EY and
KPMG —, as well as
Accenture.
Their core business is not strategic consulting, but rather auditing, technology, or corporate services. However, their Strategy & Operations or Transformation divisions have grown significantly in recent years. They offer stability, continuous growth, and exposure to large-scale clients.
• Tier Boutique (local or specialized consulting firms):
Small firms or those focused on a specific sector or function—for example, consumer goods, healthcare, energy, or private equity. They typically offer small teams, close proximity to partners, and highly focused projects. They are an attractive alternative for those seeking a closer environment and early specialization.
3. How to research and compare firms
Researching a firm goes beyond simply reading its website. It's an exercise that combines analysis and networking.
Useful sources for research:
- Vault Rankings: Compare firms based on prestige, culture, and career opportunities.
- Glassdoor: employee reviews and interview experiences.
- Great Place to Work: analysis of work environment and internal well-being.
- LinkedIn: career paths of former consultants and alumni network.
- Campus recruiting events and talks: essential for meeting consultants directly.
Additionally, you can download our free guide Crack the Interview Process and the supplementary document Understand the Process, where we explain how to plan this research and leverage it in your applications:
4. Common mistakes when researching firms
- Not doing the proper research: relying solely on information found on the website.
- Applying generically: using the same narrative for all firms.
- Failing to record learnings: Forgetting what consultants tell you or failing to systematize information.
- Ignoring the internal culture: focusing solely on prestige without considering whether it aligns with you.
- Neglecting networking: failing to leverage events or contacts to validate your perception against reality.
5. Mini-FAQ
Why is it important to research firms before applying?
Because it demonstrates preparation, improves your interview responses, and allows you to choose an environment where you truly fit.
What are the main categories of firms?
MBB (pure strategy), Core (consulting as the primary business), Non-Core (consulting within larger groups), and specialized boutiques.
Where can I compare firms?
On rankings such as Vault, Glassdoor, and Great Place to Work, as well as LinkedIn and university events.
What mistakes should I avoid when researching?
Conducting superficial research, applying without tailoring your approach, and not recording what you learn.
How can I learn more about each firm's processes?
Download Crack the Interview Process and Understand the Process in our resources section.
6. Resources and next steps
On our resources page, you will find guides, templates, and downloadable materials to prepare your application and interviews:
Continue with the 7-Step Guide and discover how to enhance your preparation and secure your entry into consulting.