Pros
Learning - high pace of learning in a diverse set of industries and functions, especially in early career Exposure - get to work with senior client stakeholders - typically at least 10-15 years more experienced and in many cases, CXOs Compensation - usually best in the industry for the level (although cannot compete with the startup world) Perks - high comfort during travel and easy + quick booking / reimbursement processes
Cons
Stress - it is a constant high stress environment where many employees often have detrimental physical and mental effects Lack of empathy - the system and people who matter are not always sensitive to what employees (especially junior and mid levels) are going through mentally because of the high stress environment Subjectivity in evaluation - while there is a formal performance evaluation process, it is often dependent on how many and how influential mentors / advocates one has in the system. The same performance could result in very different outcomes with two different sets of advocates. Surprises are far too many to employees - where people can go from being rockstars to struggling to keep their job in no time. Hit or miss for young associates / sr. associates - you need to get lucky to work with a good set of people on a reasonably good case in your first six months. If not, it can be very difficult for new people to find their feet and last beyond the initial 2 years.