Ivy Bonoldi

How did you know that Bain was the right company for you?

I knew Bain was the right place for me because from the very beginning, every interaction felt genuine. People were kind, down-to-earth, and clearly invested in helping me succeed—even before I was part of the team. That “a Bainie never lets another Bainie fail” mindset really stood out to me. I wanted to be in an environment where I’d be pushed to grow, but also supported by people who care. Bain’s focus on personal development and the chance to work across global offices also made it feel like a place where I could really build a long-term career.

What advice would you give a candidate who is interested in recruiting for consulting?

Be intentional! Every part of your application—your resume, cover letter, and conversations—should reflect not just your analytical skills, but also who you are and what drives you. Consulting firms are looking for sharp thinkers, but also people who bring curiosity, passion, and authenticity to the table. Be thoughtful about how you tell your story. And when it comes to networking, don’t treat it like a box to check—use it as a chance to learn what each firm really values and whether it aligns with what you’re looking for. Genuine interest always shows.

What should candidates know?

There’s no one “perfect” profile. You don’t need to have all the answers—we’re not looking for perfection. What really matters is how you approach problems, how clearly you communicate, and how you collaborate with others when things get challenging. And just as we’re getting to know you, you should also be figuring out if we’re the right fit for you. Culture and chemistry matter, so don’t be afraid to show up as yourself during interviews. The process goes both ways.