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Strategy Simplified

Management Consultedmanagementconsulted.com

Strategy Simplified is here to demystify the consulting industry and help you land your dream job in management consulting. Hosted by the expert team at Management Consulted - the world's largest resource for consulting news and interview prep - each episode covers topics related to the consulting world, from interview preparation and case study techniques to networking strategies and industry trends. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a transition, Strategy Simplified is the go-to resource for anyone looking to break into the consulting industry. With actionable advice, insider tips, and real-life success stories, this podcast is the ultimate guide to simplifying your career strategy and landing your dream consulting job.

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Episodes

S14E4: BCG cover letter - out of style or still required?

Send us a text Cover letters may seem antiquated, but if you’re applying to Boston Consulting Group, you’ll need a killer cover letter to apply. BCG is one of many firms that still prefers a cover letter, so today we’ll walk through how to shine in your cover letter through the structure, content, and format. Lastly, we’ll mention a few cover letter pro tips as well as red flags to avoid at all costs. Relevant Links Get expert coaching to break into BCG by joining our premium case prep program -...

May 22, 202412 minSeason 14Ep. 4

S14E3: McKinsey Resume: 5 Secrets of a Killer Application

Send us a text Want to work for McKinsey? One of the first steps to an offer is prepping your resume. Today, Jenny Rae breaks down what separates a McKinsey resume from all other resumes. McKinsey hires the best of the best, so your CV needs to be top-notch, the crème de la crème of resumes for the firm to consider you. Ready for 5 surprising secrets of a killer McKinsey resume? Listen in! Relevant Links More info on Palm Tree careers Get a custom MBB resume edit Join Strategy Sprint , a 1-week ...

May 17, 202413 minSeason 14Ep. 3

S14E2: The 5 Rules for Networking Success in Consulting

Send us a text In this episode, Namaan Mian breaks down a 5-part strategy for networking success in consulting. Why networking is critical to getting an offer The 3 key objectives for every networking conversation How firms evaluate candidates through the networking process Who to network with (and who to avoid) Happy networking! Not sure which next steps are right for you? Send our team an email . Relevant Links Book a call with Eden Join Black Belt for personalized networking support from MBB ...

May 15, 202452 minSeason 14Ep. 2

S14E1: The 7 Deadly Sins of Consulting Resumes

Send us a text Your consulting resume is the key to getting in the door to consulting firms like McKinsey, Bain, BCG, Deloitte, Accenture, and more. But even one mistake could derail your chances. After working with thousands of consulting candidates to rewrite their resumes and help them land interviews, there are 7 common resume mistakes we see all the time. Jenny Rae breaks down the 7 mistakes so you can put your best foot forward and land that interview. Relevant Links Get your resume and co...

May 10, 202412 minSeason 14Ep. 1

S13E30: Who is L.E.K. Consulting? (Managing Director Matt Mancuso)

Send us a text In this short episode, L.E.K. Consulting Managing Director Matt Mancuso shares: What type of work the firm does The firm's capabilities and core sectors A recent client case study Get access to the full L.E.K. info session - and future firm sessions - by joining Black Belt . Relevant Links Learn more about the Black Belt case prep program L.E.K. job openings Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast ...

May 08, 202415 minSeason 13Ep. 30

S13E29: The Surprising Benefits of Boutique Consulting Firms

Send us a text There is an entire world of boutique consulting firms beyond the big name firms. Hundreds of great boutique firms doing good work. In this episode, you'll meet 6 incredible boutiques who share: The surprising benefits of boutique firms Key differences between boutiques and MBB/Big 4 How candidates can identify where they fit Amazing job openings Relevant Links More info on Palm Tree careers See job opportunities at these firms Join Strategy Sprint consulting project (seats limited...

May 03, 202458 minSeason 13Ep. 29

S13E28: 4 Ways to Supercharge Your Consulting Resume

Send us a text Prepping to make a go at consulting? Having the right type of experience on your resume is key to opening the right doors. Today, Jenny Rae (ex-Bain) shares 4 specific ways to build that experience for your resume - so you can stand out for all the right reasons. Relevant Links More info on Palm Tree careers Build consulting experience for your resume through Strategy Sprint Get a custom resume edit for consulting roles Connect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consult...

May 01, 202411 minSeason 13Ep. 28

S13E27: Learn EXACTLY how an MBB interviewer scores a case interview

Send us a text Prepping for MBB case interviews? You need to know: What a "good" performance looks like How to use scoring criteria to self-assess What the interviewer is seeing / thinking as they walk you through the case That's exactly what Ryan (McKinsey) demonstrates in this episode by walking through a case 2 times: The 1st time, he runs through it as a candidate The 2nd time, he gives himself feedback based on MC scoring criteria and walks through his rationale for each answer Happy preppi...

Apr 26, 202446 minSeason 13Ep. 27

S13E26: Mastering the Art of Overcoming Objections in Meetings

Send us a text If you are tired of: Having meetings derailed by stakeholder objections Getting blindsided by questions you didn't anticipate Losing authority in presentations You'll want to listen to this episode. MC COO (and lead corporate trainer) Namaan Mian share strategies and tips to conquer objections and exhibit confidence in any meeting. If you want better results from your meetings and a stronger reputation to boot - tune in. Relevant Links Get the video replay of this session Learn mo...

Apr 24, 202457 minSeason 13Ep. 26

S13E25: Finding the Perfect Consulting Firm for You

Send us a text We get this question all the time: "How do I identify which firm is the right fit for me?" Do you go the MBB route or stick with boutiques? What about the Big 4? Industry-specialist vs generalist? Big or small? In this episode, Namaan shares a framework for how to find the right firm for you. He covers: The 4 brutal mistakes you're probably making How to craft a list of 6-8 target firms The MC mindset for firm selection 5 components for identifying target firms Keys to get intervi...

Apr 19, 202455 min

S13E24: Rekindling Old Networking Contacts to Get Interviews at McKinsey, Google, and Amazon

Send us a text So you have a connection at McKinsey or Google or [insert your dream company here]. You’re ready to apply, but it’s been a while since you’ve been in contact and you’re struggling to know how to rekindle the connection. The topic of rekindling old networking connections is a topic we frequently get asked about, so today, we’ll break down the nuances and how to not botch the process. Relevant Links Get the Strategy Sprint early bird discount ($200 off for 2 weeks only) Learn more a...

Apr 17, 20248 minSeason 13Ep. 24

S13E23: Standing Out in a Crowded Field of Aspiring Consultants

Send us a text Want to know the secret sauce that sets superstar consulting candidates apart from average ones? This episode is for you. You’ll learn firsthand the recruiting strategies, surprising mindsets, and tools to stand out in a crowded landscape from leaders at 5 top MBA programs (CBS, Indiana Kelley, Northwestern Kellogg, Michigan Ross, and Rotman). Whether you’re launching or pivoting your career, this is a can’t-miss episode. Relevant Links More info on Palm Tree careers 2 weeks only ...

Apr 12, 202456 minSeason 13Ep. 23

S13E22: What are consulting pre-MBA programs - and should you attend?

Send us a text Consulting recruiting timelines continue to move earlier and earlier. If you are an incoming MBA, your recruiting journey starts before you matriculate! If you’re starting your MBA this fall, interested in consulting, and meet eligibility requirements, consulting pre-MBA programs should definitely be on your radar. Today, we’ll discuss: Why pre-MBA programs exist What they are Who they are for Who hosts them Relevant Links Upcoming pre-MBA program deadlines for MBB and more Get ex...

Apr 10, 20247 minSeason 13Ep. 22

S13E21: Engineer to Consulting: Impossible or Probable?

Send us a text If you’re looking to transition from engineering to consulting, you’re not alone. We get hundreds of emails each year from people just like you. We’ve got good news - the transition is possible and even probable with the right approach. Today we’ll share: Why consulting hires engineers Pathways to break in Recruiting tips and tricks Relevant Links More info on Palm Tree careers Learn more about the Strategy Sprint consulting project Get expert coaching and resume edits through Bla...

Apr 05, 202410 minSeason 13Ep. 21

S13E20: 3 Reasons Why MBB or Bust Is NOT for Everyone

Send us a text We work with thousands of consulting candidates each year. 95% of them have McKinsey, Bain, and BCG as a target firm. And often, ONLY those 3 firms. We’re all for reaching for the stars, but we believe an “MBB or bust” approach is NOT the right approach for most aspiring consultants. Today, we’ll share 3 reasons why we don’t recommend the MBB or bust approach. Relevant Links Resume edits: learn more Search our Consulting Firm Directory for info on hundreds of firms Top global cons...

Apr 03, 20248 minSeason 13Ep. 20

Breaking: Bain releases app deadlines for 2025 start dates

Send us a text It's official - Bain & Company is the first firm to announce application deadlines for 2025 start dates. Listen in for: Bain application deadlines for summer 2024 Why there are 2 deadlines - and which to apply to A recommend prep timeline 2 killer prep resources Note : These deadlines are for undergraduate and Specialty Master's students. Relevant Links Application deadlines tracker Black Belt : Limited seats left for the April cohort Register for an upcoming event Schedule a ...

Apr 01, 20246 min

S13E19: How to Crush Consulting Coffee Chats

Send us a text A coffee chat is a casual yet professional approach to networking, especially in the consulting industry. But what is a coffee chat and how should you approach it? Listen to this episode with incoming Associate Ty Sheets. Ty has experienced the networking process from both sides of the table and breaks down: Why coffee chats matter How they fit into the networking process The best types of questions to ask What to do at the end of a coffee chat How to send amazing thank you emails...

Mar 29, 202433 minSeason 13Ep. 19

S13E18: Product Manager Interview Questions: Your Ultimate Guide

Send us a text Looking to land a job as a product manager? You’ll need to prepare for product manager interview questions. Listen to this episode to get a sense of common product manager interview questions and answers to help you land top jobs at companies like Amazon, Google, and more. Jenny Rae covers the 4 key categories of product manager interview questions: Background and experience questions Product vision and strategy questions Collaboration and leadership questions Technical and analyt...

Mar 27, 202410 minSeason 13Ep. 18

S13E17: "Can I get into consulting without a business degree?”

Send us a text Are you looking to break into consulting - but don’t have a business degree or background? Maybe you’re asking “Can I even get a consulting job without a business degree?” The short answer is “YES!” you can. We’ve helped many non-business candidates (e.g., history or liberal arts majors, PhDs/MDs, interior designers, real estate agents, scientists) break in. In this episode, we’ll lay out keys to transition to consulting without prior business experience or a business degree. Rele...

Mar 22, 202413 minSeason 13Ep. 17

S13E16: Navigating a Bain Case Interview (with an Ex-Consultant)

Send us a text Juliane Hoss spent 3 years in Bain & Company's Johannesburg, South Africa office working in the Private Equity Group and on large transformation projects. Today, she joins us to provide an insider look at how Bain conducts case interviews. Throughout the case, she switches between her "interviewer" and "coach" hat to give the candidate feedback after each step. Book a 1:1 coaching session with Juliane. Not a client yet? Consider Black Belt , our most popular case prep program....

Mar 19, 202446 minSeason 13Ep. 16

S13E15: Techniques for Presenting Like an Exec

Send us a text Want to become a more effective storyteller? Ready to increase your executive presence and influence? In this episode, Namaan Mian breaks down the techniques that separate effective presenters from average ones. You'll walk away with increased confidence in your abilities as a presenter. Relevant Links 1:1 presentation coaching through Power Presentations Watch the video of this podcast Learn more about a tailored storytelling training for your team Subscribe to our YouTube channe...

Mar 19, 202449 minSeason 13Ep. 15

S13E14: The 3 Pillars of a Killer Consulting Recruiting Strategy

Send us a text In today's tough recruiting environment, tthe importance of a strategic approach cannot be underestimated. In this episode, our team breaks down: The 3 “A” pillars that all consultants developed to land their offers How to avoid the mistakes that hinder thousands of candidates each year A tool to evaluate when and what kind of help you need along the way Looking for a community to accelerate your progress? Join the Management Consulted Community . Relevant Links More info on Palm ...

Mar 15, 202430 minSeason 13Ep. 14

S13E13: Healthcare Consulting Industry Overview with L.E.K., ClearView, and More

Send us a text If you're passionate about the intersection of consulting and healthcare, you're in the right place. In this episode, we interview five leading healthcare consulting experts to uncover trends and opportunities in the industry in 2024. They share: Trends in healthcare consulting How firms are leveraging technology Opportunities for advanced degrees, healthcare professionals, and aspiring consultants What excites firms about the future of the industry Interested in connecting with t...

Mar 13, 20241 hrSeason 13Ep. 13

S13E12: Simplifying BCG's Intimidating Recruiting Process

Send us a text Want to work for the Boston Consulting Group? BCG is one of consulting's top employers - the 2nd biggest of the Big 3 firms. The firm is known for creativity, thought leadership, and innovation. Today, Jenny Rae breaks down the BCG recruiting process, including when to apply and prep resources. Over 97% of BCG applicants do not land a role. Listen in for a playbook on defying the odds for BCG. Relevant Links Work with a BCG, Bain, or McKinsey coach to break in through Black Belt R...

Mar 08, 202413 minSeason 13Ep. 12

S13E11: Consulting Hiring Timelines: When to Apply for Each Candidate Group

Send us a text Consulting hiring timelines are confusing even to industry insiders. Finding answers is near impossible. In this episode, we’re excited to demystify the 2 consulting recruitment pathways and hiring timelines for each. Quick overview of timelines for each candidate group: February-April : PhD/JD/MD Bridge Programs June-September : Undergraduate/Specialty Masters internship and full-time roles; PhD/JD/MD full-time roles August : MBA full-time roles November : MBA internship roles Ye...

Mar 05, 202410 minSeason 13Ep. 11

S13E10: Recruiting Secrets from 5 Leading Careers Services Offices

Send us a text If you're looking to launch or pivot your career, this episode is for you. 5 leading university Career Services experts share the strategies, tips, and tools they employ to prepare their students for recruiting success across industries and functions. Cornell University SMU Cox School of Business Swarthmore College USC Marshall School of Business Washington University in St. Louis Learn more about these universities. Relevant Links Do you represent a university? Explore a group ca...

Mar 01, 20241 hr 2 minSeason 13Ep. 10

S13E9: Strategy, Tech, and Implementation Consulting Explained

Send us a text Many people who want to “become a management consultant” don’t realize that there are many different types of consulting. It’s sad when we run into people who apply for one type of consulting (i.e., tech) thinking that it’s strategy consulting only to later realize how different they are. To help you avoid a painful discovery like this, today we’ll break down the differences between three of the most common types of consulting - strategy, implementation, and tech. Relevant Links E...

Feb 29, 202410 minSeason 13Ep. 9

S13E8: MBA to McKinsey: Insider Tips for Landing a Consulting Role from Ryan's Journey

Send us a text Ryan Boutwell landed an MBA internship at McKinsey AND a return offer to go full-time. In this episode, he shares his journey from the UVA Darden School of Business to securing a coveted job with McKinsey. You'll walk away with no-nonsense tips and tricks for: Being yourself in the recruiting process Insightful questions to ask in networking calls Your office selection strategy Avoiding case prep burnout Relevant Links Join the Black Belt case prep program for 8 hours of 1:1 coach...

Feb 28, 202440 minSeason 13Ep. 8

S13E7: 5 Keys for a Consulting Offer in an Economic Downturn

Send us a text Getting a role in management consulting is never easy, but it becomes even more difficult in an economic downturn. But one thing that has stayed true throughout the periods of repressed economic growth: consulting firms almost never stop hiring. They might slow down. They might delay start dates. They may even do layoffs. But they rarely ever completely stop. Nevertheless, we are in a period where many firms are hiring less than years prior. So how do you stand out in this environ...

Feb 23, 202410 minSeason 13Ep. 7

S13E6: A Guide to Self-Leadership for Young Professionals

Send us a text Whether you're just starting out in your career or looking to enhance your leadership abilities, self-leadership is a crucial foundation for success. Listen in as Jenny Rae - from the other side of the mic this time - shares insights and real-life examples to help cultivate self-leadership skills that will propel your career forward. Whether you're aiming for a promotion, navigating career transitions, or simply striving to be the best version of yourself, this episode is packed w...

Feb 22, 202437 minSeason 13Ep. 6
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