McKinsey, known for its highly competitive nature, accepts only 1.5% of candidates. Successfully passing the selection process, characterized by complexity and strict criteria, is possible only with thorough and well-planned preparation. The McKinsey Case Interview Guide is worth studying in more detail.
What makes this guide unique
This guide was created by experts with an understanding of the specifics of the McKinsey candidate selection process and taking into account current trends in the recruiting industry. Whether you are just starting to prepare for an interview or looking to improve your existing skills, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the tools you need to confidently pass the McKinsey selection stages and significantly increase your chances of successful employment.
What are the elements of an interview at McKinsey?
The selection of candidates at McKinsey is carried out in three stages, each of which is aimed at a comprehensive assessment of the applicant’s qualifications, compliance with corporate values, and overall suitability for work at the firm.
Interview based on personal experience. During the selection process, McKinsey uses interviews that focus on your personal experience to assess whether you meet the competencies that the company values. The questions focus on past professional situations, allowing you to determine whether you have four characteristics: personal impact, leadership, entrepreneurial initiative, and bold change.
Case interview. The main part of the interview, which takes approximately 35-40 minutes, is the case interview. You will be given a written description of a hypothetical business problem. The interviewer will then ask you to solve several problems related to the case.
Your question for the interviewer. At the end of the case discussion, you will be given the chance to get the interviewer’s opinion about his or her career at McKinsey, his or her most notable projects, or any other topic of interest. It is recommended that you refrain from asking questions about your future role during the interview. While the bulk of interviews are conducted via Zoom, we see a trend towards at least one in-person interview at the final stage from 2025 onwards. This hybrid strategy allows McKinsey to maintain the personal touch without giving up the benefits of the virtual format!