McK pre-MBA coffee chat

Hi there, 

Great question! I wrote an article just for that (as if I knew that one day, someone, will ask just this :) ):

• Your Guide to Consulting Coffee Chats

Allow me to also answer your questions directly:

1) what is the best way to prep it? Are there standard questions that are asked?

There aren't standard questions in this sort of chat. Of course, you will have to introduce yourself, your experience and why you're interested in that firm - the obvious ones. Prepare answers for each, but rather as bullet points than full text. This way it won't sound too rehearsed. 

2) it will be over zoom, but how formal should I look like? is a suit required?

No suit, but do wear a shirt if you can. Even if it looks overly formal, at the end of the day it shows your respect for the interviewer and the discussion itself. 

3) what would be a good output for this call? what should be my key goal?

Great question! The goal is to connect. 

So don't try to impress, don't try to get some sort of advantage over others. None of this. Instead, try to connect with this person and understand as much as possible about their experience and what they recommend about the application process. If they like you, the relationship can go forward and they can become potential referees or who knows, friends. 

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

1) what is the best way to prep it? Are there standard questions that are asked?

Practice talking about yourself and your experiences. Be ready to talk to anything about your resume and defend why you're interested in the firm/role.

No "standard" questions. Be ready for “anything”

2) it will be over zoom, but how formal should I look like? is a suit required?

Go with what you feel confident in. I would recommend dress shirt at a minimum.

3) what would be a good output for this call? what should be my key goal?

That they make a note of you as being a strong candidate that they want to invite to interview. Your goal is to leave a good impression.

Hi there, 

great question. Sharing some thoughts..

1) No standard questions per se, but interviewer will typically care about your background, your motivations to for the industry, firm, resp. geography etc. 

2) No need to be too formal - collared shirt is a safe-enough bet.

3) Such chat is a 2-way street - try to get to know the firm and what they offer, and open the channel with the interviewer for further help / questions / potential referral (don't be pushy) for your future application.

Hope this helps. 

Regards, Andi

Hello,

I hope that you've been having a wonderful day so far!

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the coffee chat:

Research and preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with McKinsey and their work. Understand their values, industry expertise, and recent projects.
• Review your own background, experiences, and skills. Identify relevant examples that demonstrate your potential fit for the role.
• Prepare questions that you can ask the interviewer to gain deeper insights into the lifestyle and professional environment at McKinsey.

Dress code:

• Since the coffee chat will be conducted over Zoom, you have some flexibility in terms of attire but keep in mind that it's very important to dress professionally. While a full suit is totally fine, you can opt for a simpler attire.
• Opt for business casual attire, such as a well-fitting shirt/blouse, neat and professional-looking top, and appropriate grooming.

Key goals for the call:

• Establish a positive rapport with the recruiter and make a memorable impression.
• Showcase your enthusiasm and genuine interest in a potential career at McKinsey.
• Share your relevant experiences and skills to highlight your fit for the consulting role.
• Ask thoughtful questions about McKinsey's culture and the recruitment process.
• Seek advice from the recruiter on how to best prepare for future interviews or interactions with McKinsey.

Remember to be authentic, listen actively, and engage in a two-way conversation. Demonstrating your intellectual curiosity, drive, and passion for consulting can greatly enhance your chances of making a positive impression.

Good luck with your coffee chat, and I hope it leads to exciting opportunities for you!