In recent recruiting cycles, firms like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, LEK, and EY-Parthenon have increasingly emphasized candidates with strong quantitative and analytical backgrounds. While traditional consulting skills like structured thinking and client communication still reign supreme, there’s been a clear shift in what makes a candidate stand out.
Why the Shift?
- Data-heavy client work: More clients are asking firms to analyze datasets, build dashboards, and evaluate financial models—not just craft strategy.
- Emergence of AI and automation: Consultants are now expected to understand the basics of machine learning, prompt engineering, and how to use tools like Tableau, Alteryx, and Python—not necessarily to code, but to work effectively with teams that do.
- Non-MBB firms want both brains and build: Mid-sized firms like ZS, Oliver Wyman, and Simon-Kucher are especially pushing for candidates with both strategic and technical chops.
What You Can Do:
- Add quant-related courses to your resume: statistics, data science, econometrics, financial modeling.
- Build a basic proficiency in Excel, SQL, or Python. Even one or two personal projects can help.
- Use case-prep drills that include chart interpretation, mental math, and data-backed recommendations.
Final Thought:
The future consultant isn’t just a great communicator—they’re also fluent in data. Don’t sleep on the quant.
