How reflective are screening tests of a career in consulting?

Question

I ask because despite having a very strong, leadership level industry CV, essentially managing in-house consulting projects, I have never been strong in maths based screening tests, even out of university. I put a lot of prep effort into the McKinsey solve test which I did yesterday but it went badly.

It would help to have the perspective of consultants on how much these tests are reflective of the actual job? My entire job revolves around business performance and numbers so I know I am more than capable of it.

If it’s just that these tests are the only way to do a fair initial CV sift, then I can accept that and just work harder at it. But if doing endless rushed maths calculations and not much strategy / process type stuff is the job, then maybe I’ll have to accept it’s not the career path for me (which would be a shame).

Answer 1

Hey there,

It’s difficult to say to what extent solving problem-solving tests like the McKinsey Solve test correlates with performance on the job or long-term career success. Even within McKinsey, opinions on this differ depending on geography and office culture. Some offices don’t use these tests at all, which shows that there’s no universal agreement on their importance.

These tests are designed to simulate and evaluate your ability to problem-solve and think critically under time pressure, which is a skill you’ll regularly need in consulting. However, the job itself involves much more than this. Strategic thinking, client management, teamwork, and communication are just as critical, if not more so, and these tests don’t measure those skills.

If I were in your position, I’d focus on two things:

Continue practicing and understanding the logic of such tests – McKinsey problem solving test has its own unique format, different from SHL tests or GMAT, and its logic can be trained. Analyse available practice tests, use resources tailored to such tests, and consider getting support from PrepLounge coaches.
Expand your scope beyond McKinsey – Don’t restrict yourself to one firm. Practice other firms' tests, like BCG’s, which are similar in some regions, and apply to other consulting firms. Many firms offer great opportunities and could align well with your skills and goals.

Finally, remember that these tests are primarily a way for firms to efficiently sift through applications, not a perfect predictor of consulting success. Keep preparing, diversify your applications, and stay focused on your goal. Good luck!

Answer 2

Hi there!

Also consider that often, such tests are conceived to reduce number of candidates to be intwrviews depending on the hiring season/ ciclciality the company is in, by simply highering the bar.

This is just for saying, don't get discouraged and keep practicing on those skills and try apply to other companies!

Answer 3

It doesn't work like that. Screening tests are trying to figure out who has a higher chance of passing an interview, instead of who has a higher chance of being great at the job.

If you have a obvious weakness in math you are less likely to pass the interview, and they use it to make sure they don't interview 00's of people who have a low chance of success in an interview.

Answer 4

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