Reapplying to McKinsey in 6 months

Question

Hi I recently went through all four interview for an experienced professional associate position with McKinsey. I got the feedback that they really like me but my cases were a little inconsistent but they thought I could get them perfect and reapply in 6 months. I’m not from a business background and I hadn’t even done any case until I got asked to interview and I got really nervous in my last partner interview so I’m not really surprised by the feedback.

I was wondering now if anyone has any suggestions on steps to take now to make the process easier in a few months if I do want to reapply eg networking/working on cases etc. Also I was wondering if this recommendation to reapply in 6months is a good sign or if it’s just maybe something they say?

Answer 1

Hi!

Let me start by saying, yes, the fact that they are inviting you to re-apply in 6 months is a good sign. It means your profile is interesting, yet it is still missing some elements to enable you to get the offer (from what you wrote, most probably the "structured consulting approach" in solving business cases).

If you do want to re-apply, and you have a daily job, the most effective and efficient way to prepare business cases in a short time is with the help of consulting coaches (if you are interested, happy to work together on this just write me in private), which can help you quickly grasp the key concepts and define a study plan.

Alternatively, I would suggest you to skim through one of the famous consulting interview prep books out there (e.g., Case In Point) to get an idea of what is required (plus ideally speak with someone working at the firm) and start practicing cases with other candidates (Preplounge is a great platform for that).

I hope this helps!

Answer 2

Sorry to hear the interview didn't work out.

That happens often. Some people get in one their third attempt.

Typically the freeze is 12 months. So if they suggest 6 months, it's actually good news. No, it's not something they tell everybody.

What I'd suggest is that you start the clock for your prep 3 months before what the interview date would be.

Make sure that you are super clear on the feedback you received from the previous round so you start on working targeted from there.

Combine individual practice, with peer practice and expert input.

And make sure that you apply to multiple firms. Since you're going through the prep process, it makes sense to diversify your chances.

Sharing here a guide that might help you think through your strategy:

Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have follow-up questions.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 3

Hi there,

Usually, the ban in McKinsey is 12 months for internships and 24 months for full-time applications. However, for candidates who are on the fence and failed during the partner round, 6 months is not uncommon.

This means that you did - in fact - perform very well and barely failed. This is not something they just say to make you feel better. :-)

I have coached a couple of candidates who made it in on their 2nd try with a similar story. It's usually just fine-tuning at that stage.

Invest in your resume to show improvements in 2 out of 4 (academia, work exp, time spent abroad, extracurriculars and leadership)
Keep practicing cases and drills + focus on both your strengths and weaknesses to build the right profile
Stay in touch with people from your target office and keep them close for a referral in 6 months

Reach out for tailored guidance!

All the best,

Florian

Answer 4

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about the (narrow) rejection from McKinsey!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

First of all, as the ban period is 12-18 months, being proactively invited to reapply in 6 months certainly is a good sign, even if you haven't received the offer.
Moreover, from my perspective, you need to do two things: 1) make sure your resume shows further progress in those 6 months, and 2) improve your case study skills. As the most experienced coach in terms of consulting, interviewing and coaching, I would be more than happy to help you plan and execute both.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming McKinsey interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 5

That's great news.

To be honest, the issue doesn't seem to be about networking and making sure you get another interview.

It is really about doing great case interview preparation - which you should start right away.