If you’re preparing for a career in consulting, it’s important to understand what top firms look for in new hires. Each company has its own culture and expectations, but there are common themes: problem solving, communication, teamwork, and a drive to grow. Here's what major consulting firms value in their candidates.
McKinsey: structured thinking and clarity
McKinsey is known for solving complex business problems. To succeed here, you need to:
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Think logically and work with data.
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Communicate ideas clearly through writing and presentations.
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Be independent and organized.
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Work with international teams and adapt to new situations.
You may also be expected to travel and work in different environments. Resilience and flexibility are key.
Accenture: growth and innovation
Accenture focuses on technology and global transformation. They want team members who:
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Set ambitious goals.
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Stay positive under pressure.
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Constantly look for ways to improve.
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Care about sustainability and social impact.
Accenture values people who are ready to shape the future with a strong sense of purpose.
Bain: teamwork and curiosity
At Bain, collaboration is central. They want people who:
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Are curious and open-minded.
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Work well with others.
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Tackle challenges with energy.
Bain supports diversity and hires people from many academic backgrounds, not just business majors. If you enjoy working as part of a team, Bain may be a good fit.
BCG: communication and analytical thinking
At BCG, strong communication skills and analytical thinking are key. They look for people who:
- Can explain complex ideas clearly
- Have strong logical and problem-solving skills
- Are confident working in English, even with international teams
BCG doesn’t always require Japanese fluency, especially for global-track roles. If you can express ideas clearly and think critically in English, BCG could be a great fit.
Deloitte: creative problem solving
Deloitte looks for people who:
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Think creatively and offer new ideas.
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Work well in teams.
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Are motivated to grow and develop.
The company values inclusion and offers strong support for underrepresented groups. There’s also a big focus on sustainability and helping clients make responsible decisions.
PwC: trust and communication
PwC builds strong client relationships. They need team members who:
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Solve problems effectively.
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Communicate clearly and professionally.
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Collaborate well with others.
PwC also offers flexible work options and encourages continuous learning through internal programs.
EY (Ernst & Young): innovation and technology
EY helps businesses prepare for the future. Ideal candidates:
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Think ahead and embrace change.
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Use technology to solve problems.
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Want to make a positive impact.
EY supports growth with programs like the EY Tech MBA, and encourages collaboration across global teams.
KPMG: purpose and people
KPMG focuses on making a difference, for clients and communities. They look for people who:
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Are eager to learn.
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Work well in diverse teams.
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Want to contribute to meaningful change.
KPMG offers opportunities in many areas, from sustainability to digital transformation.
Final advice from an experienced consultant
A former BCG consultant shared this advice:
Be open to learning. Build strong relationships. Take care of yourself. Consulting is demanding—but also one of the best ways to grow fast and make a difference.
Ready to take the next step?
Understanding the culture of each firm can help you choose the right path. And once you do, you’ll need strong English skills to thrive, both in the interview process and on the job, especially in cross-cultural projects.
At The English Farm, we help future consultants like you build the communication skills you need to succeed.