Negotiating a McKinsey offer

Hi,

Congrats on the offer receipt- well done.

I think there's no risk in asking, but usually a signing bonus is given if you've completed an MBA or have competing offers.

Normal bonus (regular one paid out yearly) is typically not up to negotiation, to the best of my knowledge.

Best,
Maja

It doesn't hurt to ask, but you should be reasonable and manage your expectations. Do you have a counteroffer or incredibly specialized skills that are in high demand for that office/system? Compensation at MBB is very structured, and there is little room for negotiation. 

One way to push for higher compensation is to negotiate leveling (i.e., tenure credit = timeline to Associate/EM promotion). Folks with directly related experience can sometimes shorten their promotion timeline and get a raise sooner. This is not the norm, so I wouldn't count on it either.  

Hi there,

Congratulations on your offer! In terms of your question:

Q: Is there scope to negotiate the signing bonus? Any risk in bringing that up?

Yes, it is possible to negotiate a signing bonus, I coached candidates who did so. If you are polite and ask professionally about it, there is no real risk.

Normally the base salary for a given position is fixed for everyone. What you can usually negotiate is:

• The signing bonus
• The relocation bonus
• The seniority you join

The easiest way to negotiate is to have an “opportunity cost”, ideally due to another offer (or, in the case of relocation, to actual costs present). 

Good luck!

Francesco