Delays in getting an update after McK R1?

Question

Hi everyone.

To clarify, this is for a non-consulting role, so I hope this still fits here.

I gave my R1 interview about three weeks ago. It went pretty great, and the interviewer had explicitly stated that I should be ready for the next steps. However, I've not yet received any updates. I've followed up with HR twice, and was asked to wait for unspecified reasons both times .

I know I'm probably trying to read tea leaves and the delay is likely due to internal issues, but the suspense and lack of clarity are getting to me a bit after three weeks of waiting. This has been compounded by the fact that McK is apparently known for giving positive responses quickly?

I am wondering if such delays are common?

Answer 1

Hi :)

Three weeks can feel long, but for non-consulting roles at McKinsey, delays are pretty common, internal approvals, staffing needs, or simple scheduling often slow things down. The fact that your interviewer gave positive feedback and HR asked you to wait are both good signs, not silent rejections. Unlike consulting tracks, where responses are more standardized, support and expert roles often have less predictable timelines. Best is to stay patient and follow up politely every couple of weeks if you don’t hear back.

best,
Alessa :)

Answer 2

Hi there,

Q: I am wondering if such delays are common?

There could be multiple reasons for the delay:

Interviewers got busy and cannot align to provide feedback
HR got busy and cannot align to provide feedback
They want to conclude the process with the candidates in the pipeline
They want to align on the future project pipeline to define the exact recruiting needs

As next steps, you can:

Assume the worst-case scenario that this is a rejection, and look for other firms
Wait at least 1 week from the last follow-up, then reach out to HR for an update

Good luck!

Francesco

Answer 3

Waiting 3-4 weeks for a follow up is not unheard of. Particularly for roles where they are not hiring on a rolling basis. Of course, keep reaching out to them, but rest assured that they always come back with an answer (unless something fails in the process, which rarely happens)