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Expectations for Different Roles at McK

Hello, 

 

What are the typical expectations from an experienced hire (expert-track) senior analyst compared to an (expert-track) analyst at McKinsey? (i.e. expectations in performance, responsibility, client engagements, training, etc.) 

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Top answer
Ashwin
Coach
on Jul 20, 2022
Bain Senior Manager , Deloitte Director| 200+ MBB Offers | INSEAD

Hey there,

As you progress through consulting levels the expectations tend to increase but the core competencies remain the same - problem solving, client communication / management, team work / leadership 

For example, while at analyst level you are expected to analyze specific data and derive insights under consultant supervision, at manager level you are responsible to conceptualize the different analysis the engagement team will conduct to solve the client problem. 

Thanks 

Deleted user
on Jul 20, 2022

Hello,

I thought Ashwin's advice on this was great - the core competencies on this are really the same (problem solving, client relations, teamwork, presentation), but senior analysts are expected to perform on a higher level and take more initiative. You will be given more responsibility when handling clients, and expected to be able to work more independently, making more good progress on your workstream with less input. You may also start to get assigned more managerial duties within the team. Additionally, a mentoring component comes in at a senior level - you will be expected to mentor and give advice to more junior analysts. Hope this helps.

10
Moritz
Coach
edited on Jul 20, 2022
ex-McKinsey EM & Interviewer | 7/8 offer rate for 4+ sessions | High impact sessions + FREE materials & exercises

Hi there,

McKinsey uses the same assessment matrix for all it's consultants, which outlines expected performance for a certain seniority for the specific dimensions that are key for all - whether you're an expert or not.

This includes things like partnerships with clients, problem solving skills, work within the team, etc. Hence, it's all skill based and doesn't have anything to do with training. The more senior you get, the more independent, proactive, and competent you're expected to perform across these dimensions. The way this is assessed is by phone calls with people you have worked with previously who can testify to your level or maturity.

Hope this helps! Best of luck!

Ian
Coach
on Jul 20, 2022
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

Completely agree with the others. The main thing I would add is: This is a great excuse for networking! This is a great question to ask in your networking calls. Not only will it help you better understand the nuances, but it also shows the other person that you are driven to perform well.

Clara
Coach
on Jul 21, 2022
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

The expectation is regarding the “bar” that you need to reach or raise, as with any job in which you have more junior and senior roles. This translates into the level of responsibility you take, how solo you work, etc 

Hope it helps!

Cheers, 

Clara

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