We have attempted below to answer some of the questions that are frequently asked by applicants. We can’t cover all of the questions, nor all the answers, in as much depth as we would like, so if you have any further questions, please contact us.
What criteria do you use to judge CVs and in considering applications?
We look for a combination of very strong academics (from any discipline), and broad and intense extra-curricular activities. Also, we look favourably on language skills, previous relevant work experience and the quality of your CV / covering letter.
For experienced hires or MBAs we attach higher significance to your achievements at work. Go to Application Tips > Applications for more information.
How do you assess the interview?
In the interview, we look for qualities including intellect, creativity, analytic ability, personality, drive, and leadership. We also assess whether you and OC&C are suited to working together. Go to Application Tips > Interviews for more information.
How can I best prepare for the case study interviews?
Performing well at interview is a skill that can be learnt, and the case study interview is no exception to this. It helps to work through as many practise cases as possible. There are also a number of books on the subject which may be of use to some people – careers services are generally a good source for these. Although we do not look for any specific industry-based knowledge, it helps to have a good general knowledge of what issues are currently important in business – try reading the business sections of newspapers or news websites. Go to Application Tips > Case studies for more information.
What is the average age profile?
Many people join OC&C straight from University, but we also recruit people with 2-5 years experience in other industries and MBAs who have 2-5 years prior experience. Recent joiners have included former accountants, lawyers, retail and industry managers, army officers, civil servants and people with experience acquired at other first-tier consultancies. This means that there is a good mix of age ranges: from 21 to 50. The average age is around 28.
What nationalities work in OC&C Middle East?
OC&C benefits from a mix of nationalities. Those represented include French, Lebanese, American, German, Polish, British, Egyptian, and Austrian, among others. Our MBAs are typically from London and US schools and therefore tend to be from a diverse range of international backgrounds. Also there might be secondees from other OC&C offices working from our office at any one time
Do you travel a lot?
Travel varies entirely from project to project and so everyone's experience is different.
There is a good chance you will spend some time working on a project abroad or in other OC&C offices.
What else will I do beyond project commitments?
At OC&C our employees become involved in actively managing and growing our firm. All consultants have the opportunity to get involved in teams that deal with company-wide issues from recruitment and training through to the “Entertainment Department”, which organises parties and other social activities.
What is the typical career path at OC&C?
Associate Consultants typically spend three years at that level (less if they have some previous experience or progress exceptionally rapidly) before promotion to Consultant. Some people then elect to go to business school under sponsorship, or are seconded to a client firm or an OC&C office elsewhere in the world for a year. The pathway to Partner is typically 8 or 9 years.
What are your policies on training?
We consider both classroom and on the job training as key elements in your development. Joining from university you can expect to receive training in Consulting, Strategy, Research, Financial Analysis, Economics and Graphics within your first couple of months and there are further schedules courses through out the year.
Our commitment to training continues throughout your career and at each grade there is an established portfolio of courses designed to meet your professional development needs at that time. So as you move towards becoming a consultant, the training focus is on project management, delegation and people management. At manager level the focus shifts towards client facilitation and creativity workshops.
Many of these courses are run internationally and are held as part of our International Training Week. In 2006 this was held in Boston and the previous year Antwerp. ITW provides a great opportunity to meet colleagues, at all levels, from all of our offices. It's not just all training though as there are plenty of opportunities to socialise as well.
Another crucial element in an ACs development is on-the-job training. The best way to learn is by doing. You are encouraged to push yourself just beyond the point where you feel comfortable with what you are doing, as that is where you develop fastest - safe in the knowledge that you are fully supported by your job manager should you need to turn to him / her for direction or support.
What is your policy on MBA sponsorship?
We have preference for one year courses simply as they tend to fit better with our consultants’ needs and our European network, but we will support whatever suits the individual. Sponsorship is not guaranteed, but is based sensibly on whether we see you have a long-term career in the business.
What is your policy on transfer to other OC&C offices?
If you wish to work in another OC&C office there are three broad options:
- to work on one individual project with another office.
- to be offered an OC&C ambassadorship for 6-12 months in another office. This is awarded to our top performers.
- to seek a permanent transfer to another office.
There are examples of people in the firm who have tried each of these options. The only rule is that you must be totally competent linguistically to work in your target office (or demonstrate that you could get to that state rapidly).