How important is perceived firm prestige in IT Consulting? (not MC)Over the long run are there any REAL advantages of working at a "Tier 1" firm e.g. Accenture, Deloitte over firms such as Capgemini, Atos Origin, Logica, Fujitsu etc?I get the distinct impression that there's more work-life balance sacrifice at ACN and Deloitte than at some of the less prestigious firms. For similar roles and salaries I question whether the sacrifice is worth it for a more prestigious brand name? Your opinions please...

The prestige is absolutely worth it - both on your CV for future moves, and in that the brand impacts the pipeline and achievable rates of the firm concerned, both of which factors have an effect on you... It is a myth that the Tier 2 are more relaxed (actively propagated by them in recruitment marketing...) - the reality is that they can be absolute sweatshops. Think moving from Fortnums to Asda...

Prestige is BS. What matters is if you like the culture and the workstyle of the company, because if you don't you won't last 6 months. Accenture and Deloitte mean long hours and high stress, others like IBM and CapGemini less so. Do you research.

Thanks both for your responses.I am inclined to agree with you rc but the "big brand" is tempting nonetheless.Any tips on how best to research culture and work style please? Opinions expressed at interview and on this forum are bound to be biased...