Confused about Role?

Hi there, 

First of all, my suggestion would be to apply for the position that you want to work in. They don't ‘switch' roles after they give you the offer. 

Second of all, it would be worth reaching out directly to the recruiter and having a conversation with them about it. This can be super valuable - you're building a relationship with HR already and they can give you great tips into the recruitment process.

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

• It can be challenging to transition from one industry or sector to another, especially when applying to a highly competitive firm like McKinsey. However, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success.
• Based on your experience and interest, the best approach would be to apply for the general associate role that you are interested in. You can emphasize your transferable skills and relevant experience in your application, highlighting how your experience in the social sector has prepared you to work in a business setting. Explain clearly why you are interested in transitioning to the general associate role and emphasize that, while you are seeking to gain experience in a generalist role, you would still be happy to contribute to the social sector projects. McKinsey values generalist training, and your willingness to contribute in different sectors will align with their values and will be positively viewed.
• It's important to be honest and transparent about your career goals and interests during the interview process. McKinsey values candidates who are clear about their motivations and aspirations.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to address your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

Where do you want to be? Sounds like generalist to me ;)

Will you be happy if you're social sector at McKinsey? Doesn't sound like it.

In your interviews make sure you let them know you're happy to contribute to social sector and make eventually specialize, but that you value the importance of generalist training (they'll love this, because they agree!)

Please network too.

Don't do that. Apply for the position you want. If they like your profile but think they'd rather have you in the other role, they'll ask you to switch.

This makes more sense than what you suggest. If you apply to the role you don't want… they'll assume it is they one you prefer. And swithich roles once hired is definitely inferior to getting in immediately where you want.

Hi there,

Apply for the position you want to work in. If you apply for the social sector function, then ask to change after you get the offer, it will 

a. not work

b. create unnecessary noise ("McKinsey hates noise").

To prepare for the interviews, check out the articles I wrote:

Case: https://preplounge.com/mckinsey-interview

PEI: https://www.preplounge.com/mckinsey-pei

Cheers,

Florian

If you are set on the generalist positon, go for that one. It is unlikely you can apply for one position and move to the other, otherwise they wouldn't be distinct jobs after all.

You will need a strong cover letter and motivation explaining your move but there is no reason to think you should only go for the ones in your field.

My advice would be to speak with someone in the teams if you can so as to get a referral but also to understand whether the generalist role meets your expectations and the social one doesn't.

Hello!

I don't really understand what the question is there. 

Is it that you don't know wether to apply as a generalist, or as an expert? 

Cheers, 

Clara

Hi there,

Very straight forward - you apply for the generalist role i.e., the role you want.

Best of luck!

Moritz