McKinsey interviews are among the hardest job interviews in the world. The questions are difficult, specific to McKinsey, and the interviewer can sometimes seem intimidating.
Of course, the good news is that if you prepare well, it can be pretty easy to do well at a McKinsey interview. We have put together the ultimate guide to help you maximise your chances of success.
Getting hired as a Management Consultant at McKinsey & Company is no easy feat. With its reputation as one of the top strategy consulting firms in the world, McKinsey attracts thousands of applicants every year for a limited number of positions
The interview process is rigorous designed to filter out all but the very best candidates. You can expect case interviews behavioral interviews, technical questions, and more. Preparation is key if you hope to land a job at this prestigious firm.
To help you get ready, we’ve compiled a list of the top 25 most common McKinsey interview questions along with sample answers. Master these, and you’ll be on your way to starting a rewarding consulting career with McKinsey & Company.
1. Walk me through how you would solve a business case interview question.
At McKinsey, you can expect several case interview questions that test your problem-solving skills. Interviewers want to see your approach to breaking down a complex business situation. Your answer should demonstrate a structured thought process rather than jumping straight to solutions.
Sample Answer:
First, I would make sure I understand the full context of the case by asking clarifying questions about the client, industry, competitors, etc. Next, I’d dig deeper into the issue by inquiring about symptoms versus root causes. From there, I’d organize the information into a structured framework to identify key factors underlying the business challenge. My next step would be developing 2-3 potential solutions, evaluating their pros and cons, and deciding on the optimal recommendation. Throughout the process, I would communicate my approach clearly while walking through the quantitative and qualitative analyses needed to arrive at the solution.
2. How would you go about estimating the market size for a new product?
Market sizing questions are common in McKinsey interviews. They want to know you can leverage data to gain strategic insights into growth opportunities. Structure your answer using a logical framework.
Sample Answer:
I would start by looking at the total available market (TAM) – the maximum number of potential customers for the product. Next, I’d analyze factors like target demographics, pricing, competitors’ market share, and industry trends to estimate the serviceable available market (SAM). From there, I’d assess our capabilities and resources to determine the serviceable obtainable market (SOM) we can realistically capture. This involves forecasting conversion rates based on sales projections. The final market sizing estimate would factor in timelines, growth curves, and risks. Throughout the process, I would use metrics and data to support my assumptions.
3. Tell me about a time you influenced someone senior to you.
McKinsey wants leaders who can influence effectively across hierarchies. Share an example that demonstrates your communication skills and ability to convince others. Focus on the approach rather than just the outcome.
Sample Answer:
When I was working on Project X, I noticed that our pricing model was putting us at a disadvantage compared to competitors. I scheduled a meeting with my manager to propose a new dynamic pricing strategy and presented my research and analysis to support this. While she was initially hesitant about making major changes, I was able to convince her by using industry benchmarks, customer feedback, and projections of increased revenue. My ability to remain professional and focus the discussion on data-driven insights was key to getting her buy-in. Within a few months of implementation, we saw a boost in sales. This experience demonstrated how framing logical arguments can influence senior stakeholders.
4. How would you go about building a financial model for a company?
Financial modeling is an essential skill in consulting. McKinsey wants to know you can translate a business case into a financial model to quantify impacts and test assumptions. Structure your answer using the typical components of a financial model.
Sample Answer:
I would start by working with the client to understand their business model and key value drivers. Next, I’d map their income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement to create an integrated financial model. I would ensure it captures all relevant operating metrics and cost drivers. My next step would be forecasting revenues and expenses over a 5-year period based on growth assumptions and industry benchmarks. I would link these projections to calculate KPIs like profitability, cash flows, and return on investment. Finally, I would stress test my model using sensitivity analysis to account for risks and variances. Throughout the process, I’d validate the model against historical data to ensure accuracy.
5. How would you go about researching a new industry you have no experience in?
McKinsey consultants must be able to quickly get up to speed on diverse industries and business contexts. This question tests your ability to do independent learning and research.
Sample Answer:
I would start broad and then dig deeper. Beginning with an industry overview, I would learn the landscape – size, segments, major players, growth trends. I’d study the competitive forces and market position of the key companies. Then I would dive into financial analyses to understand profitability, cost structure, and value chain economics. My next area of focus would be industry-specific metrics and benchmarks to gauge performance. I would also conduct interviews with industry experts to gain practical insights into the nuances, challenges, and opportunities. Throughout this process, I’d compile a knowledge bank of relevant articles, research reports, company filings, and case studies to immerse myself in that industry.
6. Describe a time when you had to work with incomplete data or information. What was your approach?
Consultants rarely have all the data they want, so McKinsey looks for demonstrated skill in dealing with incomplete information and ambiguity. Share a structured approach focused on critical thinking and problem-solving.
Sample Answer:
When I was working on a growth strategy project for Client XYZ, we did not have full access to their customer data and analytics due to system limitations. However, we needed these insights to identify high-potential market segments. My approach was to conduct customer surveys and focus groups to gather direct feedback on their needs and preferences. Combining this qualitative data with broader industry research, we were able to identify the most promising customer cohorts for Client XYZ to target, despite data limitations. This experience demonstrated that a methodical approach and leveraging available information can generate meaningful insights even with incomplete data.
7. Imagine you are staffed on a project requiring knowledge of an industry you have no experience in. How would you get up to speed?
Lifelong learning is essential at McKinsey. Interviewers want to assess your intellectual curiosity and ability to master new topics quickly – skills critical for consulting. Emphasize structured, proactive learning.
Sample Answer:
First, I would carefully study the background materials and training guides provided by McKinsey to develop a strong foundation on that industry. I would supplement this by doing my own secondary research through reports, articles, and analyses published by experts and firms in that space. Next, I would schedule meetings with McKinsey team members who have worked in that industry to gain insights from their firsthand experiences. If possible, I would try attending industry events and conferences to network and learn from market players themselves. Throughout this process, I would document and organize all my learnings to continuously expand my knowledge. Within a short time, I am confident I could gain expertise even in a wholly new industry through this structured approach.
8. Walk me through how you would build a chart in Excel to analyze a company’s financial data and performance.
Management consultants rely heavily on Excel. With this question, interviewers will assess your level of Excel fluency along with your financial analysis skills. Demonstrate your command over Excel tools with an appropriate example.
Sample Answer:
Given historical financial data in an Excel file, I would first ensure the data is formatted and organized appropriately for analysis. Next, I would use Excel functions such as VLOOKUP and pivot tables to aggregate the data and uncover trends over time. I would then build a chart, likely a line graph, to visualize key performance indicators like revenue, profit margins, and cash flow. The chart could show actuals versus budget over time. I would incorporate features like data labels and color-coding for easy interpretation. Finally, I would conduct valuation analyses – DCF, comps etc. – in new tabs to derive insights on the company’s performance. Throughout, I would check for errors using pre-built auditing tools. This structured approach enables incisive analysis of any company’s financial data using Excel.
9. Tell me about a time you successfully influenced your team to do things differently.
McKinsey values the ability to influence and drive change, without formal authority. Share an example focused on your communication, persuasion and leadership skills versus just outcomes.
Sample Answer:
When I joined the Digital Analytics team in my previous role, I noticed that we relied solely on dashboards and lagging metrics in our reports. I felt incorporating leading indicators and more qualitative data could help us provide better insights. During team meetings, I persuaded them to pilot adding in-depth commentary and user feedback alongside our standard dashboards. To convince them, I used examples of how this more context-driven approach has helped other teams improve engagement. My team was initially hesitant, but agreed to try this new format. Over time, they saw how this improved the value we delivered to internal partners. This experience demonstrated my ability to influence colleagues to adopt new practices, without formal authority.
10. Describe a time you had to adjust your communication style to work effectively with someone
2 McKinsey interview timeline ↑
When you’re getting ready for your McKinsey case interview, it can be hard to know when each part of the process will happen. To help illustrate a typical timeline, weve created the below overview of McKinseys recruitment schedule. As a rule of thumb you can expect the whole process to take 5 to 8 weeks.
Please note: this is meant to give you a general overview, and may not reflect your specific interview timeline. Actual interview timelines depend on a number of factors (e.g. Experience hire vs. University hire). The below is based on the expected recruitment timelines at the University of Chicago (an MBB target school). You can find the original document from the University of Chicago here.
You now know what to expect from the hiring process and when it will happen. Next, let’s talk about the skills that McKinsey will test you on during case interviews.
Preparation tips ↑
The most important things you can do to get ready for your McKinsey case interviews will be talked about here. Lets begin with maths preparation.
Personal Fit Interview Questions – Get into McKinsey, BCG, Bain
How did you interview at McKinsey & Company?
I interviewed at McKinsey & Company As described on their website: -Playing a game -Perform 1st online interview -Attend Interview day (3 interviews) + if successful: direct offer You can always ask the recruiting team if you have any questions. They are very kind. Personal experiences (as described on their website).
How long does it take to get a job at McKinsey & Company?
The process took 2 months. I interviewed at McKinsey & Company Virtual game followed by three interviews. each interview consist of explaining your experience and a business case.
What is the McKinsey & Company hiring process?
The McKinsey & Company hiring process typically involves multiple stages, including an initial application, online assessments or games, and several rounds of interviews. The interviews often consist of behavioral questions and case studies, with interviewers ranging from junior to senior-level employees.
What skills do McKinsey consultants need?
This question is designed to test your leadership, persuasion, and negotiation skills. McKinsey, as a global consulting firm, values these skills highly because their consultants often have to convince clients to adopt recommendations or strategies that may initially be met with resistance.
