General
How many consultants will BCG Switzerland hire in 2010?
Given the rapid pace of growth, we are looking for approximately 50 full-time hires and Visiting Associates (interns) from different fields of study for 2010.
What are the requirements to apply for BCG?
We expect candidates to have a strong university degree. The course of study plays a secondary role. Ideally, you have demonstrated an interest in business by completing internships and have studied one or more semesters abroad or worked in a foreign country for an extended period of time. You should be proficient in German and English.
How important are German and English skills for project work?
One basic requirement for working with our clients is excellent written and spoken German. Many clients demand excellent English skills. Knowledge of other foreign languages is a plus.
How much travel does the job entail?
Depending on the nature of the project your presence at the client's site, whether in Switzerland or abroad, is needed to a varying extent. This can range from only periodical meetings to two to five days at the client's per week.
Do you accept candidates with Bachelor degrees?
Yes, we accept Bachelor degrees from top universities. Graduates may enter our bachelor's programme for a limited period of around two years. These individuals participate in client projects as full-ranking members of the team and are required to complete a Master's degree/MBA at a top university in order to further advance their career with our company.
Is BCG more likely to invite those with a PhD or MBA degree to interview?
Having one or the other does not make any differences of being invited to interview with BCG. We are interested in hiring people who combine curiosity and an ability to grasp new subjects with a willingness to learn. At BCG, analytical abilities are as important as strong communication skills. You should quickly grasp complex situations and not be satisfied to simply rework an existing strategic concept, but strive to visibly effect a change.
What proportion of the workforce at BCG are women?
We strive to be the employee of choice for women among the consulting industry. Hiring and retaining the best female talent is very important to BCG and one of our CEO’s primary goals. Our immediate goal is to increase the share of women to at least one-third.
When and how should I apply?
While BCG accepts applications throughout the year, you should plan to submit your final application no later than five to six months before you wish to start. The best way to apply to BCG is to use our online application.
What application documents do I need to submit?
Your application should contain the following:
- a cover letter with a brief introduction of who you are and your motivation for applying with BCG,
- a curriculum vitae in table format,
- copies of your most important academic grade transcripts (high school, Bachelor, Master, PhD) and,
- if possible, references from work experience including internships
How do I prepare for the interview?
We expect potential candidates to be open-minded and inquisitive. We do not want to hear rote responses or standard catch phrases. Compelling ideas and structured thinking count more than knowledge of economics. To get an idea of what a case study might look like, please visit our interactive case.
What if I want to work at an office other than BCG Switzerland?
The best way to apply to BCG is to use our online application. You can apply to up to three different BCG offices. Learn more about BCG’s international presence.
Do you give preference to applicants from certain universities?
No. At BCG we value and seek diversity. We believe our teams will develop better solutions if the team members come from different backgrounds. We also believe that our employees thrive best in an environment where different experiences enrich each other.
Do you accept degrees from universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschule)?
Our requirements profile includes a university degree.
Can I write my thesis at BCG?
Our clients provide us with confidential information that may not be published in external academic papers. Due to this fact, we do not sponsor thesis work.