Apply to MBB as an experienced hire at the end of november (near christmas). A problem?

Hi there! Great question. It’s smart that you’re thinking strategically about both timing and readiness for your application to McKinsey Spain. I would apply in the next 2-3 weeks (when resume/cover letter is ready), start case prep in earnest as soon as possible, and consider working with a coach. I'm happy to chat about how I can support you on this. 

When applying as an experienced hire, you need to balance two critical factors:

The Window of Opportunity:

• Demand Cycles: MBB firms often adjust their hiring needs based on demand, market conditions, and pipeline requirements. As the Business Analyst you spoke to mentioned, November is often a good time to apply because it allows for a start in early 2025. However, it's true that there isn’t a "perfect" time since experienced hire recruiting can be more flexible than the structured recruiting cycles for new grads. If you're intel indicates it's a good time, seize the opportunity. The experienced hire pipeline isn't always open.
• Application Timing: Submitting your application in late November is not inherently a problem, but the holiday period (from mid-December to early January) can create some delays. You might not get immediate feedback, and interview scheduling could be pushed into January. However, the upside is that applying now allows you to get ahead of the January rush when many candidates tend to apply. I wouldn't be worried about interviews during the holidays -- consultants want their time off as much as you. 

Your Readiness:

• Resume & Interview Preparation: Even though the timing might be advantageous, it’s equally important to feel prepared (i.e., strong resume, compelling narrative for why you/consulting/the firm, consistent performance on case interviews). A strong resume will get you through the initial screen, but your case skills and personal fit stories will be crucial in passing the interviews. Don't wait to get started on this!
• Avoid Rushing: Applying when you’re not fully ready can hurt your chances more than delaying a few weeks would. MBB firms tend to be lenient if you need an extra week or two to interview, but it's better to be prepared than to rush and underperform in interviews (or not get them at all because of a poorly drafted application).

In summary, apply when you feel ready, but also recognize that the current window of opportunity (before the end of November) is a good one. With strong preparation, you'll be well-positioned to capitalize on it. Good luck!

Hi there,

I would argue that applying close to Christmas is actually not the best time of the year.

• Historically, the earlier in the year the better (more open slots) and usually with January, new hiring targets open up. This does not always need to be true but the fact alone that it could impact your screening is worth considering
• Most MBB offices do not interview close to Christmas due to client projects wrapping up around that time, many events on top of normal work + holiday season. If you make it past screening, it's likely that your interviews will be in January

If you are not in a rush, I would suggest you wait until Jan with your applications.

Cheers,

Florian

Timing generally isn’t an issue, especially as an experienced hire. From my experience, there’s no 'perfect' time to apply. While interviews around Christmas are possible, if they want you, they’ll be flexible.

Focus on your preparation. Don’t rush, but also don’t worry about timing—it’s more important to apply when you’re at your best. Reach out if you need help preparing or with anything else.

Priyanka

Hi there,

Q: Interviews might take place around Christmas. Could you clarify if that timing could be an issue?

Assuming they are hiring, applying in November would not be an issue. If they are too busy for interviews and your profile is a good fit, they will simply move the interview to January. 

On the other hand, if you don’t feel you would be prepared for the interviews (say in 3-4 weeks, assuming they start before Christmas) and you are not in a hurry, you might opt to apply in January so that you have more time to prepare.

In both cases, I would invest some time in ensuring your CV is well-structured and in securing a referral.

Overall, both November and January could be fine. I would recommend considering the factors indicated above (how much time you need to reach your target level, your time constraints and the exact hiring situation) to make a decision.

Good luck!

Francesco

You should apply when you are close to ready to interview.

Regarding "best time" to apply, this doesn't really exist. It may however impact your starting dates (and whether you start at the same time as other new-joiners, or when you will have your mid-year and end-year assessments), or when you interview, but these are more personal questions, i.e. related to you, than things that impact the chance of getting the offer.

Final note: consultants usually don't want to interview during christmas either.

I’ve been a McKinsey interviewer at the Madrid office for six years, and there are no interviews during the Christmas season. Believe it or not, even consultants take a break occasionally! 🙂

Feel free to reach out if you’d like help with the process—I’d be happy to assist!

Best,

Alberto