cover letter template management consulting

A Consulting Cover Letter that Lands Interviews: Our Complete Guide

• Last Updated January, 2024

Rebecca Smith-Allen

Former McKinsey Engagement Manager

The recruiting season is approaching fast, and there’s one thing you’ll need to get your foot in the door for an interview at a top-tier consulting firm: an impressive cover letter.

What should you talk about in your consulting cover letter?

How do you distinguish yourself from the tons of other candidates applying to Bain, BCG, McKinsey, and other top consulting firms this year?

If you’re asking yourself these questions, don’t worry! 

In this complete guide to writing a consulting cover letter, we’ll tell you exactly what points you need to address in your cover letter to put your best foot forward and land that interview.

We’ll discuss:

• What a cover letter is
• The RIGHT way to structure one
• The Red Flags that get candidates rejected and how to overcome them
• 5 Tips on writing an effective consulting cover letter

We’ll  also share:

• 2 cover letter examples that landed candidates interviews at the top firms.

Let’s get started!

Consulting Cover Letter – Why It Matters

What is a consulting cover letter.

The consulting cover letter is a separate document from your resume; it puts the work experience you outline on your resume into context to show why you’re a great candidate.

The WRONG Way to Structure Your Management Consulting Cover Letter

Most of the Internet articles on writing a cover letter talk about structuring them with the following sections:

• Why are you interested in consulting?
• Why are you interested in the firm you’re applying to?
• What makes you a good fit?

This is not the best way to approach writing your consulting cover letter. My Consulting Offer has helped hundreds of clients land interviews and get offers with top management consulting firms like BCG, Bain, and McKinsey.

We’ve even helped people who faced extra hurdles because they had low GPAs, majored in subjects other than economics or business, or attended non-core schools.

Our clients received interview invitations and job offers because our cover letter process works.

The RIGHT Way to Structure Your Management Consulting Cover Letter

Want to know the best way to structure a cover letter that has statistically been shown to get more interviews?

Watch this video before proceeding.

Now that you watched the video (Watch now if you haven’t yet because the impact of the rest of the article is only 10% of what it could be if you watch it). 

As you found in the video, the best  way to structure your cover letter is to Google the characteristics the consulting firm you want to work for seeks in consulting candidates and then show you have those characteristics .

Yes, you read that right. Go to the Bain Careers page and read about what they’re looking for in candidates. You’ll find it on this page . 

Every consulting firm has values they take very seriously, and that drive the candidates they target, so you will want to know what they are for each firm you apply to. 

As an example, Bain wants consultants with:

• Problem-solving skills
• The ability to lead
• Results delivered

You will use each of these to develop a paragraph or section of your consulting cover letter.

For each, choose a specific time from your professional or personal experiences that shows you possess that characteristic. 

If you have more than one experience that shows you exemplifying a characteristic, pick the strongest example.

Then, create a story that briefly explains the context around your example, describes the action(s) you took, and shows concrete results. 

Quantify the results of your actions whenever possible.

• Results delivered – When I took over as the leader of my sorority’s annual fundraising event for a local food bank, I wanted to make it even more successful than in prior years. Each year, we threw an event and asked people to bring packaged food products or a donation. I went beyond that by asking the college’s academic departments to collect donations from faculty and staff as well. Packaged goods contributions to the food bank increased by 50%, and financial donations increased by over 300%.

Proof the My Consulting Offer Cover Letter Structure Works

This strategy of showing how you’ve exemplified the characteristics the firm is looking for in applicants works particularly well if you are applying to management consulting firms from a non-traditional background. 

If you’re a student with a liberal arts major, in a non-MBA master’s degree or doctorate, or attending a non-core school, you should definitely use our approach. It shows the reader that you’d be an asset to their team and have what it takes to be a successful consultant at their firm. This makes them focus less on your non-traditional background.

One of our early clients was an undergraduate who’d spent his summers interning in Michelin-star restaurants in New York City because he aspired to run a Michelin-star restaurant as a career. 

He didn’t have high-level positions in these internships; he worked in the kitchens. He cut the tomatoes for the tomato soup and did similar food prep.

He wasn’t even in charge of making the tomato soup!

As graduation approached, he decided that while he knew all about the kitchen side of the restaurant business, he wanted to learn about running the front of the house. To do that, he looked into consulting jobs.

But he had no business experience.

In his cover letter, we developed stories about:

• Managing the kitchen effectively, even on hectic Saturday nights
• Managing chefs with many years more experience than he had himself
• Landing jobs at top-rated restaurants by showing up at the restaurants before they opened and networking his way in with perseverance

These stories showed he had the leadership experience, people skills, and drive needed in consulting, things that wouldn’t have been clear from his resume alone.

Why My Consulting Offer’s Approach to Writing Consulting Cover Letters Is So Effective

My Consulting Offer’s approach highlights the characteristics consulting firms value in applicants to develop your cover letter.

• You don’t need to explain “Why McKinsey/Bain/BCG?” because you’ve taken your bullet points from their firm career pages .
• Your stories explain why you’re a good fit.
• You can cover the question “Why consulting?” in just a sentence or 2 because you’ve demonstrated you understand what consulting firms look for in candidates through your stories. This question is especially important for applicants with non-traditional backgrounds or experienced hires. 

Just add a short opening, 1-2 sentences on “Why consulting?” and a short conclusion to these paragraphs, and your cover letter will be ready to submit. 

Mistakes People Make with Their Consulting Cover Letters that Lead to Rejection

There are red flags that can get applicants’ resumes placed in the “no” pile. These are:

• A gap in their work history.

A low GPA  can be a problem because management consulting firms target people who can solve tough business problems. But if your GPA  is low due to extenuating circumstances, such as a problem with your own or a family member’s health, or if you needed to work many hours each week to finance your education, firms will often overlook this.

Small offices at top consulting firms often have a problem. People choose them because they think they’ll have a better shot at getting an offer from the firm. But later, these same people want to move to a different office, leaving that office understaffed. 

If you’re applying to an office because you genuinely want to live in that city, tell the recruiters why you want to live there (examples: near family, proximity to outdoor activities, etc.) They need to see that you are not planning to try to transfer to another office or they won’t want to invest in you.

If you have a gap in your work history, a consulting firm might think you were fired and had difficulty finding another job. If health or another issue was the cause of the gap in your work history, it’s important to explain that.

If you have any of these or other red flags in your consulting application, take the time to explain them in your cover letter so that they don’t derail you from getting an interview.

Writing Your Management Consulting Cover Letter – A Step-by-Step Guide

• Opening – keep it short and sweet. Just introduce yourself and express interest in working for the firm you’re applying to, mentioning the specific position you want. Include your 1-2 sentences on “Why consulting?” here.
• Central paragraph 1  – As explained above, find what the firm is looking for in consultants from their Careers page and dedicate one paragraph to each characteristic.
• Central paragraph 2 – Create a story from your experience that shows you have that characteristic. You should include 3-4 stories in your cover letter.
• Central paragraph 3 – Quantify results whenever possible.
• Central paragraph 4 – Order these stories in the way that works to your advantage, with the strongest story first, the second-strongest last, and weaker (but still good) stories in the middle.
• Address any red flags.
• Express your interest again and close the letter.

That’s it! You now have an impressive cover letter.

5 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter that Lands the Interview

• Tip #1 – Start with the characteristics valued by the consulting firm you’re most interested in. You should tailor the cover letter for each firm to the characteristics they list on their Career page. You’ll find, however, that you can re-use stories because all consulting firms value leadership, drive, teamwork, and creating impact.
• Tips #2 – Pick the most compelling stories from your experience. You probably have multiple stories you could use for some values. Choose just one story. If in doubt, the one where you solved the biggest problem or where you had the biggest impact is probably the best. Don’t worry if you have another great story, you’ll get to talk about it in your consulting interviews.
• Tips #3 – Quantify results wherever possible. Showing that you increased revenue/ attendance/ donations by x% quickly and effectively displays you can get things done. Same with cost reductions or reduced time/effort to get work done.
• Tip #4 – Tighten your language to show your point as efficiently as possible. Never say more than you need to in order to make your point. Recruiters screen thousands of applications, and they appreciate communications that get right to the point. Consulting partners will also appreciate this skill once you’re on their team and drafting PowerPoint slides for client meetings. Keep your cover letter to one page. 
• Tip #5 -Use Fiverr or another service to ensure you have no grammatical or spelling mistakes. You only get one chance to make a good impression. Don’t send out a letter with a big mistake, especially if you can prevent it with $5. 

Consulting Cover Letter Examples

The best way to get a sense of what an effective management cover letter looks like is to read one. 

We’ve got 2 examples of letters that helped My Consulting Offer clients land interviews: one from an undergraduate student’s application to McKinsey and one from an experienced-hire candidate’s application to Bain.

Successful Consulting Cover Letter Example 1

Undergraduate consulting cover letter example, why is this undergraduate consulting cover letter sample effective.

This consulting industry cover letter written by an undergraduate is effective because it addresses key characteristics that McKinsey looks for in their applicants, as you can see   on their careers page :

• Personal impact
• Entrepreneurial drive

While it only calls out 2 of the 4 characteristics McKinsey is looking for, entrepreneurial drive and problems solving, these stories also showcase the candidate’s personal impact. 

The 3rd characteristic the cover letter calls out, teamwork/ collaboration, is also highly valued by McKinsey and other consulting firms. 

The entrepreneurial drive paragraph is effective because it shows this candidate works hard and overcomes obstacles that would stand in the way of other candidates.

The problem-solving paragraph is effective because it shows the candidate’s structured approach to solving a problem. It also shows this approach worked.

The collaborative story works because it shows that this candidate was able to make strong personal connections from a very young age and that they respect people from all walks of life.

The candidate makes clear with his/her stories that they understand what McKinsey is looking for and that they’ve demonstrated those characteristics.

Successful Consulting Cover Letter Example 2

Experienced hire consulting cover letter example, why is this experienced hire consulting cover letter sample effective.

• Problem-solving skills (addressed in Passion for Results and Lasting Impact.)
• The ability to lead (addressed in all 3 stories.)
• Results delivered (addressed in Passion for Results with quantified impact.)
• Passion (addressed in Drive & Character)

Each of the 3 stories in this cover letter presents the applicant as someone who has the characteristics top management consulting firms look for. 

Moreover, the 3 stories together demonstrate that he or she has “the whole package.” He or she isn’t smart but a poor team player or good at problem-solving but lacking the passion needed to get things done in a difficult, real-world environment.

The fact that the applicant could speak to all of the things Bain looks for helped them land interviews and then offers with multiple top firms.

What About Firms Like McKinsey, Which Don’t Require a Cover Letter?

Some management consulting firms, such as McKinsey & Company, have made submitting a cover letter optional. 

Should you bother to spend the time to write one if they don’t seem to care?

If your resume clearly shows you are a good fit for the consulting firm,  you don’t need to submit a cover letter. Things that would make you look like a good fit include:

• Attendance at or a degree from a core school where the firm recruits through on-campus interviews and hires consultants every year
• An undergraduate degree in business or economics or an MBA
• Leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills clearly demonstrated through work and volunteer experience on your resume

If your resume doesn’t clearly communicate that you’re a good fit for the management consulting industry and their firm, in particular, your application will be strengthened by including a cover letter. 

You should also submit a cover letter if you have been previously rejected from that firm so that they know you have taken steps to improve your application since last applying.

You’ll want to think about stories to use in your behavioral interviews   anyway, so if you’re unsure whether you need a cover letter, it’s safest to write one.

To see the power of an improved cover letter, watch this video on how My Consulting Offer helped Cynthia get invited for an interview at every consulting company she applied to.

Are you ready to write your management consulting cover letter?

We bet you are since you now know:

• What a consulting cover letter is
• The red flags that get candidates rejected and how to overcome them
• Our 5 Tips on writing an effective consulting cover letter
• Plus, you’ve seen 2 Consulting cover letter examples that worked

Still have questions?

If you have more questions about writing effective consulting cover letters, leave them in the comments below. One of My Consulting Offer’s former MBB recruiters will answer them.

Other people who were writing their cover letter found the following pages helpful:

• Consulting Resumes
• BCG Cover Letter
• Consulting Networking
• Case Interview Prep : The Ultimate Guide
• Our List of  Top Consulting Firms and their company values
• The Non-MBA Master’s Student’s Guide to Landing a Consulting Job

Do You Need Help Writing a Perfect Consulting Cover Letter?

Thanks for turning to My Consulting Offer for advice on writing your cover letter. We’ve helped over 700 people get offers in consulting and 89.6% of My Consulting Offer clients land  interviews and offers with a consulting firm. Most land more than one. We want you to get that opportunity to interview with McKinsey, Bain, BCG and other top firms!

For example, here is how we helped Tao land interviews at Bain, BCG, and McKinsey.

Join our FREE Webinar:

How 800+ candidates have landed consulting offers at mckinsey, bain and bcg, 2 thoughts on “everything you need to know about the consulting cover letter”.

Thank you Davis for this powerful tool you shared. Really, I havent thought of cover letters telling stories or narrating how you used the needed skills and the value you added using them in your past roles. No wonder I have been getting rejections based on my red flags – not having to work with the big 4s or having multinational experience. All these does not matter as long you can demonstrate the skill set you used to add value in your previous roles which must be inline with what the prospective role needs. I really aporeciate this exposure and I look forward to getting calls from recruiters going forward as I apply your strategy to my cover letters subsequently. Thanks a lot. Esther.

Hey, Esther, We’re so glad the tips we discussed about writing your consulting cover letter were helpful! Good luck in your job search!

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Consulting cover letter guide (for McKinsey, BCG, Bain, etc.)

Today we’re going to explain everything you need to know about writing consulting cover letters.

We’ll start by reviewing an example cover letter that got interview invitations from ALL the MBB firms (McKinsey, BCG, and Bain). 

And then we’ll explain exactly how you should write your own cover letter to land consulting interviews. Here’s a full list of the topics in this guide:

• Example cover letter

How to write your consulting cover letter

Consulting cover letter tips.

• The skills consulting firms look for

Consulting cover letter screening process

• Get help with your cover letter

Let’s get to it! 

Click here for a consulting letter/resume review with an ex-MBB consultant

Example cover letter (which got interviews at mckinsey, bcg, and bain).

Below is an anonymised cover letter from a candidate who got interviews at McKinsey, BCG and Bain. So you can trust that this template works.

The image here highlights the different sections of the cover letter, but we’ll dive deeper into the text later, and you can also get a downloadable copy below.

Free download of the consulting cover letter example, here. 

In the next section, we’ll go step-by-step through each part of the cover letter and explain how to go about writing it. But before we dive in, please note the following points about the above template:

• A lot of people use this template. Get inspiration from it, but every sentence in your letter should be written from scratch.
• This cover letter might sound impressive. It's one of the best ones we’ve seen. But even if you have not achieved as much as this person, you can still get an interview.

With that said, let’s dig into the cover letter writing process!

As a starting point, this video provides a nice overview of the full writing process for a consulting cover letter. 

Now let’s break things down further.

1. Introduction

Example - Introduction

Mary Taylor - [email protected]

DD / MM / YYYY

Dear Sir / Madam,

I would like to apply for an Associate position at McKinsey in London.

This section is a formality. It should simply state the following information:

• Your name and email address. You can replace your email address with a postal address although those are not commonly used anymore.
• The date on which you are sending your letter
• The position, company, and office to which you are applying

Keep it short and sweet.

2. Why you? 

Example - Why you?

I started working as an Analyst at Big Finance in New York in September 2020 and was quickly promoted to Associate in a year and a half instead of the average four years. While at Big Finance, I advised a broad range of clients who constantly gave me positive feedback and regularly asked to work with me again. Before joining Big Finance, I graduated as the top student of my MEng in Chemical Engineering at Prestigious University in the UK. While studying, I received two competitive scholarships and awards. In addition, I developed my leadership skills as the President of the Prestigious University Consulting Club. High energy was essential to lead a team of 5 managing the club and growing the number of members by 20%.

This is your "GOLD MEDALS" section. It is the first section of your cover letter and therefore the most important one.

It should state the TOP 3 achievements of your life to date that are relevant to consulting. These achievements should be as unique and as memorable as possible. When your reviewer reads them they should think "Wow, that's impressive. I want to know more about this person."

To write this section you need to step back and ask yourself "What are the most impressive things I've done with my life so far?" This is not an easy question to answer. 

In our experience discussing this with a close friend can help. It's sometimes easier for them to quickly point out the impressive things you have done as they are an external observer.

In addition, notice how achievements are QUANTIFIED in the example above. Saying you have been promoted "in a year and a half instead of the average four years" is much more powerful than saying you have been promoted "quickly." You should quantify your achievements whenever possible.

This section is your chance to grab the reader's attention. If there's nothing impressive in it, they will stop reading and just scan the paragraphs. So don't miss your opportunity!

3. Why consulting?

Example - Why consulting?

There are several reasons why I want to pursue a consulting career. To start with, I know I will enjoy being a strategy consultant because I have already worked in a strategy team in the past. This was in summer 2019 when I was a Strategy Intern at Big Grocery Retailer in London. In addition, I think consulting is a unique opportunity to comprehensively learn about business management by working on a variety of company situations. Over the past two years, I have started building my business skills while advising clients on financial matters at Big Finance. I now look forward to learning more about companies’ management at McKinsey. Finally, I want to work in consulting because I truly enjoy interacting with clients. Throughout my work experiences I have built a successful track record of developing and maintaining relationships with clients including, for instance, the senior strategy team at Big Grocery Retailer.

Once you have convinced your reviewer that you have impressive achievements under your belt they'll be thinking: "Ok, this person is impressive. But do they REALLY want to be a consultant? Or are they just applying because they're not sure what to do with their career."

The third section of your letter should therefore answer the  "Why consulting?" question . But here is the thing about this question: There are some reasons to go into consulting that you should tell your reviewer about. And some reasons that you should really keep to yourself.

For instance, one of the mistakes candidates commonly make in their cover letter is to write something along the lines of "I'd like to spend 2 or 3 years in consulting to learn more about business in general and then decide what I want to do." This is a HUGE mistake. 

Consulting firms want to hire FUTURE PARTNERS. Not employees who will stay for a couple of years. You can watch the video below for more details about this.

The best approach for your "Why consulting?" section is to write about past experiences that really show you know what you are getting into. The perfect situation is if you have done an internship in consulting or in corporate strategy and have enjoyed it. If that's the case, this is the perfect section to write about it.

But even if you haven't done related internships, there are plenty of angles you can use to connect your past experiences to what you will do as a consultant. For instance:

• You might have enjoyed working with clients when you were in M&A or in Sales
• You might have enjoyed structuring and solving tough problems as an engineer

You should use these experiences to say that "working with clients" or "solving tough problems" is something you KNOW you enjoy doing; and you look forward to spending more time doing this as a consultant.

When they read this section, your reviewer should think: "Ok, this person is impressive AND they know what they are getting into."

4. Why McKinsey / BCG / Bain / Other?

Example - Why McKinsey?

McKinsey appeals to me for three reasons. To start with, the different people from the company I have met and worked with all told me they had truly enjoyed their time there. For the past two years, I have worked for Michael Smith, a former Engagement Manager from the London office, who now works for Big Finance. Additionally, I regularly read McKinsey’s reports on financial services and think the insights delivered by Sarah James and others in the Finance practice are truly superior to that of other consultancies. By joining McKinsey, I therefore think I would have an opportunity to work with and learn from the best consultants in the industry. Finally, the fact that McKinsey was selected by Finance Supercorp to shape its digital strategy also played an important role in my decision to apply. This was a first-of-its-kind contract in finance and it shows that while at McKinsey I could get the opportunity to work on truly unique projects.

If you have managed to convince your reviewer that you have an impressive background and that you really want to be a consultant, you have a VERY HIGH chance of getting an interview. 

The only question that's left for you to answer is: " Why McKinsey  / Why BCG? / Why Bain? "

Top consulting firms  have a lot in common. In most regions, they cover the same industries and work for similar clients. They also pay similar salaries, and the career path is more or less the same from firm to firm. So what should you write about in this section?

In our experience, the most efficient way to set yourself apart in this section is to write about three specific elements:

When you write "I've met with Michael Smith," or "I've read report X," or "I've heard about project Y," you are making an argument that's SPECIFIC enough for your reviewer to think: "Ok they've done their homework."

If you stay too GENERIC, your argument will be much less credible. For instance, writing something like "While at McKinsey, I'll be exposed to a broad range of industries which I'm excited about" is a weak argument because you could swap McKinsey for BCG or Bain in that sentence.

In fact, this is the ultimate test. If you can swap McKinsey with another name in your "Why McKinsey?" section you are not being specific enough. You need to work on your paragraph again and mention SPECIFIC people, reports, or projects that you find interesting.

5. Conclusion

Example - Conclusion

For all these reasons, I am very enthusiastic about the chance to work at McKinsey. I am available for an interview at any time and look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully,

Mary Taylor

The last section of the cover letter is a formality again. It should include the following elements:

• A sentence or two saying that you are enthusiastic and available for interviews at any time
• Your final signature

So how do you make it easy for your reviewer to put your cover letter on the "Accept" pile? We have put together the 10 tips below to make sure you can achieve this and avoid common mistakes.

Tip #1 Don't use a template letter

Writing cover letters is painful. But trust us, reading hundreds of them can be at least as painful. That's why you should make every effort to make your letter interesting and genuine. 

It's ok to get inspiration from templates such as the one we provide in this guide. But every sentence in your letter should be written from scratch.

Tip #2 Keep it to one page

One of the unwritten rules of consulting cover letters is that they should not be longer than one page. The trick to achieve this is to only select the MOST RELEVANT experiences from your  resume  and to summarise them. 

The points you decide to highlight should clearly demonstrate that you would make a great consultant.

Tip #3 Standard format and font

It's tempting to use an eye-catching font and format. But that's actually a bad idea. You only risk your interviewer thinking: "I've never seen this font, it looks really weird. Who is this person?" Your cover letter should stand out because of its content, NOT because of its format.

Tip #4 Not the time to be shy

Your cover letter is not the time to be shy. If you went to Harvard and have three Olympic medals, now is the time to say it! Most of us don't, and that's fine. But the point is that you should really push yourself to bring your most impressive accomplishments forward.

Tip #5 Network, network, network

This might sound surprising, but a big part of the cover letter is  how much networking you have done . Having networked with people from the firm you are applying for pays dividends for multiple reasons. 

First, they might recommend you to the HR team. But most importantly, these people will give you insight into what makes their firm UNIQUE. Then you can quote what you've heard in your cover letter (and name drop the person you heard it from) to show that you really understand the firm you are applying for.

Tip #6 Read, read, read

Unfortunately, networking is not always easy or possible. In these cases, your second best option is to read as much as you can on the firms you are applying for. You should read about the firm's projects, reports, and partners and find pieces of information you are really interested in. 

For instance, if you did your master thesis on electric vehicles, try to find who works in this area at the firm and what they have to say about it. And then mention what you have found in your cover letter.

Tip #7 One letter per firm

One question we often get is: "Should I write one letter per firm?" The answer is YES. But it's not as hard as it might sound. 

Every cover letter needs to answer three questions: Why you? Why consulting? And why this firm? The only paragraph you will need to change in every letter is the one about "Why this firm?" For each firm, you will have to do the networking and reading mentioned above.

Tip #8 Start writing early

Writing an outstanding cover letter is VERY HARD. Most candidates underestimate how much time it takes and start this process too late. You'll need to take a step back and reflect on everything you have done to date to highlight your most relevant experiences. 

This takes multiple iterations. Start early.

Tip #9 Get feedback

In our experience, great candidates all look for feedback and iterate on their cover letter until it's truly as good as it can get. It's a lot of work, but it's worth it.

It’s best to get feedback from peers or consultants. These people will be able to point out which parts of your letter they don't get or don't find impactful enough. If you’d like to have an expert review your cover letter, check out our team of  ex-consultant coaches .

Tip #10 Proofread multiple times

Finally, you should check and double check your letter for typos and grammar mistakes - multiple times. A cover letter is (not so secretly) a writing test and you should really treat it like one.

What consulting firms look for

To get multiple interviews at  top consulting firms , it’s extremely important to understand what those firms are actually looking for. 

The good news is that most of the leading consultancies are looking for basically the same skills. 

To illustrate this point, here’s what  McKinsey  and  Bain  say that they’re looking for in candidates, along with our own translation of what they mean:

There are also a few unofficial items that consulting firms will look for on your resume, and you can read about those in our  consulting resume guide .

Next, let’s talk about the typical cover letter screening process.

Screening process

Now let's talk about HOW your cover letter will be handled once you send it. Here's how it works.

Your application will be sent to a JUNIOR CONSULTANT who recently graduated from your University. They will score your documents based on a grid provided by the HR team. 

Consultants usually have to score 200 to 400 applications in about 2 weeks. And this is sometimes on TOP of their normal project. It's not uncommon for them to leave the job to the last minute and to have to do it on a Friday night just before the deadline.

Why is this important? The point we are trying to make is your application is part of 100 other applications. And the person who will review it will be tired by the time they get to your cover letter. If they don't understand something, they won't Google it. It's your job to make their job easy.

Why consultancies ask for a cover letter

There are two main reasons why consulting firms ask for cover letters.

First, partners bill several thousand dollars per day to their clients. The opportunity cost of interviewing you is HUGE for the firm. Put yourself in the shoes of a consultancy for a second. What are the top 3 questions you want to answer before investing money in interviewing a candidate?

• Have they demonstrated the skills needed to be a consultant?
• Do they know what consulting is and what they are getting into?
• Are they genuinely interested in working for our firm?

If you don't answer these three questions in a structured and impactful way, your chances of getting past the screening process are very low. This is why every cover letter should be structured as follows:

• Why consulting?
• Why this firm?

The second reason consulting firms ask for a cover letter is to test your writing skills. Consultants write all the time: emails, PowerPoints, Word documents, etc. They spend about 50% of their day writing. And a lot of the time their job is to summarise very large quantities of information in a succinct way.

This is exactly what you have to do in your cover letter. You have to a) look back on all your past experiences, b) select the relevant experiences to convince the reviewer that you are the right person for the job and c) summarise all these experiences in a way that's easy to read and digest.

Cover letters are a disguised writing test. Candidates who end up getting invited for interviews recognise this early on. Making a good impression on paper is way harder than making a good impression in person.

Are many candidates ready to invest HOURS in writing the perfect cover letter? No. That's the whole point. That's how you can set yourself apart. If you spend enough time making sure that your letter is as impactful as it can be, you stand very high chances of getting invited for interviews.

Another reason that it can help to have a cover letter is to explain anything on your resume that may look unusual to a reviewer, such as a time gap or a non-traditional background for consulting. 

Whatever your unique situation is, if you’re not confident in how your cover letter looks today, then we can help you. 

Get an Ex-MBB consultant to review your cover letter

The guide above, in addition to our guide on  consulting resumes , should go a long way in helping you craft documents that will get you interviews. 

But if you still feel you need additional help, we have a team of ex-MBB recruiters and interviewers who would be happy to provide feedback on your cover letter.

You’ll get feedback on how to immediately improve your cover letter, including what experience to focus on, how to optimise your phrasing, formatting, etc.

Start by browsing profiles for available coaches.

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12 Management Consulting Cover Letter Examples for 2024: Tips & Templates

Craft an exceptional Management Consulting Cover Letter with our online builder. Explore professional example cover letter templates suitable for various levels and specialties. Capture the attention of employers with a refined, professional Cover Letter. Secure your dream job today!

Table of Contents

Most popular management consulting cover letter examples.

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Are you ready to take the leap into the competitive world of management consulting? Crafting a compelling cover letter is a crucial step in showcasing your unique qualifications and securing your dream job. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential elements of an effective management consulting cover letter, ensuring you stand out to recruiters and hiring managers. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to create a persuasive cover letter that not only highlights your skills but also reflects your passion for consulting. Here’s what we’ll cover:

What does a Management Consulting Cover Letter accomplish?

Key components of a management consulting cover letter.

• Format a Management Consulting Cover Letter
• Three different level cover letter examples

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Management Consulting Cover Letter

• Key Takeaways

Get ready to dive deep into the nuances of cover letter writing, and let’s enhance your chances of landing that coveted management consulting position!

A Management Consulting cover letter serves as a crucial tool in showcasing your unique qualifications and fit for the role, complementing your resume by providing context and personality to your application. It allows you to highlight specific experiences and skills that align with the consulting firm's needs, demonstrating your understanding of the industry and your problem-solving capabilities. A well-crafted cover letter can also convey your enthusiasm for the position and help you stand out in a competitive job market. For a comprehensive approach to writing an effective cover letter, refer to our cover letter guide and utilize our cover letter builder to create a polished and professional document.

• Personalized Introduction : Begin your cover letter with a personalized greeting and a strong opening that captures the reader's attention. Mention the specific consulting role you are applying for and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
• Relevant Experience and Skills : Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the management consulting role. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your background in problem-solving, analytical thinking, and teamwork can benefit the firm. For inspiration, check out some cover letter examples .
• Understanding of the Firm : Showcase your understanding of the consulting firm’s culture, values, and recent projects or achievements. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the company and how you align with its mission.
• Call to Action and Closing : Conclude your cover letter with a strong closing statement that reiterates your enthusiasm for the position. Include a call to action, inviting the hiring manager to discuss your application further, and ensure you format it professionally using a suitable cover letter format .

How to Format a Management Consulting Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter for a management consulting role, it’s essential to present yourself as a results-driven professional with strong analytical and interpersonal skills. Your cover letter should not only highlight your qualifications but also convey your enthusiasm for the consulting industry. Here are some key formatting points to consider:

• Professional Header: Start with your name, address, phone number, and email at the top, followed by the date and the employer's contact information.
• Formal Greeting: Use a professional salutation, addressing the hiring manager by name if possible, to create a personal touch.
• Strong Opening Statement: Begin with a compelling introduction that outlines your interest in the position and the company, and briefly mention your relevant experience.
• Tailored Content: Customize the letter to reflect the specific consulting firm’s values, projects, and culture, demonstrating your genuine interest.
• Quantifiable Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments from your previous roles using numbers or percentages to illustrate your impact.
• Skill Alignment: Emphasize skills that are crucial for consulting, such as problem-solving, strategic thinking, and communication, linking them to your past experiences.
• Client-Focused Mindset: Showcase your understanding of client needs and how your background prepares you to deliver solutions effectively.
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal yet engaging tone throughout the letter, avoiding overly casual language while remaining approachable.
• Call to Action: Conclude your letter with a strong closing paragraph that expresses your eagerness for an interview and mentions your availability.
• Polished Finish: Proofread for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure the letter is neatly formatted, ideally one page in length, to leave a professional impression.

Management Consulting Entry-Level Cover Letter Example #1

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the Management Consulting position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. With a recent degree in Business Administration from [Your University] and hands-on experience in data analysis and strategic planning, I am eager to contribute my skills and insights to your team.

During my internship at [Previous Company/Internship], I had the opportunity to work closely with a cross-functional team on a project aimed at improving operational efficiency for a key client. My role involved conducting market research, analyzing data trends, and presenting findings to senior consultants. This experience not only honed my analytical skills but also taught me the importance of collaboration and effective communication in driving project success. I am particularly proud of my contribution to a presentation that resulted in actionable recommendations, ultimately leading to a 15% reduction in operational costs for the client.

Additionally, my involvement in [Relevant Extracurricular Activity or Project] allowed me to develop strong problem-solving abilities. I led a team of peers in a case competition where we analyzed a real-world business challenge and proposed a comprehensive strategy. This experience reinforced my ability to think critically under pressure and adapt quickly to new information, qualities that I believe are essential in the fast-paced environment of management consulting.

I am excited about the opportunity to work with [Company Name] and contribute to innovative solutions that drive client success. I am particularly drawn to your firm’s commitment to [Specific Value or Project of the Company], which resonates with my own professional values. I am confident that my background and passion for consulting will enable me to add value to your esteemed team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to [Company Name] and help clients navigate their challenges effectively.

Management Consulting Mid-Level Cover Letter Example #2

I am writing to express my interest in the mid-level management consulting position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job listing]. With over [X years] of experience in management consulting, coupled with a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives and delivering measurable results, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and support your clients in navigating complex business challenges.

In my most recent role at [Previous Company Name], I successfully led a cross-functional team on a project aimed at optimizing operational efficiency for a major client in the healthcare sector. By employing data analytics and conducting thorough stakeholder interviews, we identified key areas for improvement that resulted in a 20% reduction in costs and a 15% increase in service delivery speed. This experience honed my skills in project management, strategic planning, and client engagement, all of which I believe are essential for a mid-level consultant at [Company Name].

Prior to that, I worked with [Another Previous Company Name], where I collaborated with clients across various industries, including technology and consumer goods. My role involved conducting market research and competitive analysis to inform the development of tailored growth strategies. One notable achievement was my contribution to a market entry strategy for a tech startup, which led to a successful launch and generated $3 million in revenue within the first year. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and creative problem-solving in fast-paced environments.

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of its commitment to innovative solutions and its collaborative culture. I admire your recent work on [specific project or initiative], which aligns with my passion for leveraging data-driven insights to drive transformative change. I am eager to bring my expertise in stakeholder engagement and strategic analysis to your team and help [Company Name] continue to deliver exceptional value to its clients.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills align with the needs of your team. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] and am hopeful for the chance to further discuss my candidacy in an interview.

Management Consulting Experienced Cover Letter Example #3

I am writing to express my interest in the Management Consulting position at [Company Name], as advertised [where you found the job listing]. With over [number of years] years of extensive experience in management consulting, I have successfully partnered with a diverse range of clients across various industries to drive growth, improve operational efficiency, and enhance strategic decision-making. My expertise in data analysis, project management, and stakeholder engagement perfectly positions me to contribute to [Company Name]’s commitment to delivering exceptional client value.

In my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I led a cross-functional team in a high-profile project that transformed the operational processes of a leading retail client. By implementing a data-driven strategy and leveraging advanced analytics, we were able to reduce costs by 20% and improve customer satisfaction ratings by 30% within the first year. My ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights allowed our team to present compelling recommendations to the executive board, ultimately securing buy-in for the proposed changes. This experience honed my skills in stakeholder management and reinforced my belief in the importance of aligning strategic initiatives with client goals.

Additionally, during my tenure at [Another Previous Company Name], I spearheaded a market entry strategy for a major telecommunications client seeking to expand into [specific region or market]. Through rigorous market analysis, competitive assessments, and collaboration with cross-functional teams, we identified key opportunities that led to a successful launch and a 15% increase in market share within the first six months. This project not only deepened my understanding of strategic planning but also emphasized the significance of adaptability and innovation in a rapidly evolving market landscape.

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] due to its reputation for fostering a culture of collaboration and its commitment to driving meaningful change for clients. I am excited about the possibility of bringing my strategic mindset, analytical skills, and results-driven approach to your esteemed consulting team. I am confident that my extensive experience and passion for helping organizations navigate complex challenges will make a significant contribution to your client engagements.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and aspirations align with the goals of [Company Name]. I am eager to contribute to your team and help drive impactful results for your clients.

Cover Letter Tips for Management Consulting

When crafting a cover letter for a management consulting position, it's essential to convey not only your qualifications but also your understanding of the consulting industry and the specific firm to which you’re applying. Your cover letter should serve as an extension of your resume, showcasing your analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal strengths. Make sure to highlight relevant experiences that demonstrate your capacity to tackle complex business challenges. Tailoring your letter to the company’s culture and values can also set you apart from other candidates, showing your genuine interest in the role and the firm.

Cover Letter Tips for Management Consulting:

• Personalize Your Letter: Address the letter to a specific person, if possible, rather than using a generic greeting.
• Showcase Relevant Experience: Highlight specific projects or roles that demonstrate your consulting-related skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and analytical capabilities.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to illustrate your impact in previous roles, such as percentage improvements, cost savings, or successful project completions.
• Demonstrate Industry Knowledge: Research the firm and mention specific aspects of their work or culture that resonate with you, showing your enthusiasm and fit.
• Use a Professional Tone: Maintain a formal yet engaging tone, avoiding overly casual language while still allowing your personality to shine through.
• Focus on Problem Solving: Emphasize your ability to analyze problems and propose effective solutions, a critical skill in consulting.
• Keep It Concise: Aim for a one-page cover letter that is clear and to the point, ensuring every sentence adds value.
• Proofread Carefully: Review your letter for spelling and grammatical errors, as attention to detail is crucial in consulting.

How to Start a Management Consulting Cover Letter

Starting a cover letter for a management consulting position requires a balance of professionalism and personal touch. You want to capture the reader's attention while showcasing your enthusiasm and relevant experience. Here are some effective introductory paragraphs you can consider:

“As a results-driven professional with a background in strategic problem solving and a passion for driving organizational change, I was excited to discover the Management Consultant position at [Company Name]. My experience in analyzing complex business issues and delivering actionable insights aligns perfectly with the needs of your team.”

“With a Master’s degree in Business Administration from [University Name] and over three years of hands-on experience in management consulting, I am eager to bring my expertise to [Company Name]. I thrive in dynamic environments and am committed to helping clients achieve their goals through innovative strategies and data-driven solutions.”

“I am writing to express my interest in the Management Consultant role at [Company Name]. Having successfully managed cross-functional teams and led transformative projects in previous positions, I am drawn to this opportunity to leverage my skills in a collaborative and challenging setting.”

“As a dedicated consultant with a strong track record of improving operational efficiencies and enhancing client satisfaction, I am thrilled about the possibility of joining [Company Name]. My strategic thinking and analytical skills have consistently resulted in measurable outcomes for my clients.”

“I am excited to apply for the Management Consultant position at [Company Name], where I can combine my analytical prowess and interpersonal skills to provide exceptional value to your clients. My experience in developing tailored solutions and fostering client relationships positions me as a strong candidate for your dynamic team.”

How to Close a Management Consulting Cover Letter

To effectively close a management consulting cover letter, it's crucial to reinforce your enthusiasm for the position and express your readiness to contribute to the firm's success. Here are some examples:

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my analytical skills and strategic thinking to your team, and I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to your clients' success. Thank you for considering my application; I am eager to further discuss how my background in problem-solving and project management can add value to your firm. I appreciate your time and consideration, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience aligns with the goals of your consulting team. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of working with your esteemed firm and am confident that my unique perspective and skills will be an asset in driving impactful solutions for your clients.

When applying for a role in management consulting, your cover letter serves as a crucial first impression to potential employers. It is your opportunity to showcase your qualifications, demonstrate your understanding of the industry, and convey your enthusiasm for the position. However, many candidates make common mistakes that can hinder their chances of standing out in a competitive field. To help you craft a compelling cover letter, here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Generic Salutation : Using "To Whom It May Concern" instead of addressing the hiring manager directly can make your letter feel impersonal. Always try to find the name of the person who will read your application.
• Lack of Specificity : Failing to tailor your cover letter to the specific firm and position can make it seem like you're sending a mass application. Mention the firm’s values, recent projects, or specific roles you’re applying for.
• Overly Formal Language : Using overly complex language or jargon can make your cover letter difficult to read. Aim for clarity and a professional yet approachable tone.
• Neglecting to Highlight Relevant Experience : Not emphasizing your relevant skills and experiences that align with management consulting can make it hard for the reader to see your fit for the role. Be sure to connect your past experiences to the requirements of the position.
• Rehashing Your Resume : Simply restating what’s on your resume without adding context or insights can come off as unoriginal. Use the cover letter to provide a narrative that complements your resume.
• Ignoring Formatting : Poor formatting, such as inconsistent fonts or lack of structure, can distract from your content. Ensure your cover letter is well-organized and visually appealing.
• Failure to Show Enthusiasm : Not expressing genuine interest in the firm or the consulting field can suggest a lack of passion. Show your excitement about the opportunity and why you want to work at that particular firm.
• Typos and Grammatical Errors : Submitting a letter filled with mistakes can undermine your professionalism. Always proofread your cover letter multiple times and consider asking someone else to review it.
• Not Including a Call to Action : Concluding your letter without a call to action can leave the reader unsure of your intentions. Politely express your desire for an interview or further discussion about the opportunity.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a cover letter that effectively communicates your qualifications and enthusiasm for a career in management consulting.

Key Takeaways for a Management Consulting Cover Letter

In crafting an effective cover letter for a management consulting position, it's essential to highlight your analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of business dynamics. Tailoring your letter to reflect the specific requirements of the consultancy firm can significantly enhance your chances of standing out. Use concrete examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you have successfully tackled complex challenges or contributed to strategic initiatives. Remember, a compelling narrative that connects your background to the firm's mission can leave a lasting impression on hiring managers.

To streamline the process of creating your cover letter, consider utilizing professional cover letter templates that can guide you in structuring your content effectively. Additionally, leveraging a cover letter builder can save you time while ensuring that your letter is polished and tailored to the specific role you are pursuing. By focusing on your unique qualifications and presenting them in a clear, engaging manner, you can increase your chances of securing an interview in the competitive field of management consulting.

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