I Reviewed 50+ MBB Cover Letters—Here's What Actually Works

When you’re applying to McKinsey, BCG, or Bain, your cover letter isn’t just a formality—it’s a tool that can either land you an interview or get your resume tossed in seconds. I’ve read over 50 cover letters submitted to MBB firms over the past year, and I started noticing clear patterns: what works, what doesn’t, and what the top 1% always do.

Here’s what actually gets results.

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🔍 1. The Best Letters Tell a Story, Fast

The strongest cover letters grab attention in the first two lines. Instead of the classic “I’m writing to apply…,” they lead with a story or a clear outcome. Example:

“Last fall, I led a pro-bono consulting team that helped a local business increase revenue by 32%—and realized I love solving high-stakes problems.”

💡 Why it works: It shows impact, leadership, and interest in problem-solving—all in one line.

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✅ 2. They Make It Easy to Say ‘Yes’

Every great MBB cover letter I saw made the same moves:

• Specific firm name mentions (not “I’m interested in consulting…” but “I’m excited by Bain’s work in consumer private equity…”).
• Proof of skills: Quantitative rigor, leadership, teamwork, communication.
• Smooth transitions: Each paragraph builds off the last.

And most importantly, they never repeated the resume. They added context to it.

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🧠 3. They Show That the Candidate ‘Gets It’

If you’ve networked with someone at the firm, mention them. If you’ve followed a case study, name it. MBB readers are trained to spot generic applicants—don’t give them a reason to toss your app.

"After speaking with two Emory alumni at BCG and learning about your Climate & Sustainability practice, I knew I wanted to be part of a team that drives high-impact change."

👀 Instant fit. Firm-specific. Shows effort.

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🚫 4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even strong applicants mess these up:

• Copy-pasting the same letter for multiple firms.
• Using empty buzzwords like “fast-paced” or “team player.”
• Being too robotic (consulting doesn’t mean soulless).
• Ending with “I hope to hear back soon”—weak close!

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🛠️ 5. The Framework I Recommend (And Use)

[Intro] Hook with a personal or results-driven line
[Body 1] Why you're a fit (with proof: project, internship, class, etc.)
[Body 2] Why MBB/this firm specifically (name-drop, focus area, values)
[Close] Confident, professional wrap-up with a clear ask for interview

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📥 Want My Template?

Here’s the Google Doc version I use with all my coaching clients. Just don’t forget to customize the firm-specific section.

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🚀 TL;DR – What Actually Works:

• Start with results, not fluff
• Tailor it to the firm, not “consulting”
• Show proof, not just passion
• Don’t overwrite—1 page, clean and clear
• Be bold enough to sound human