First catch-up meeting with partner - what we be some good questions?

Question

Hi, I have just started my new role a few days ago and will have “catch-up meetings” with partners soon. I'd like to seek advice on what questions to ask / discuss with partners in the first meeting with them? I would like to seek their advice on career development and also skill set development, but I don't want to “over-expose” my weakness. I would like to create a good impression and also align their expectation. Thank you for your advice!

Answer 1

Hi there,

Catch-up meetings between Partners and new hires are very common and she/he will have had this conversation a million times. Make sure you know your CV, your ambition and interests, and the Partner's client/project focus to identify any potential overlaps.

Don't worry about exposing your weaknesses. Firms like McKinsey or other MBB employ strength based skill development, which generally emphasizes turning good skills into great ones ('spikes') as opposed to closing skill gaps.

Also, manage your expectations and don't book more than 15-30min max. You'll soon spend enough time together in projects and working on LOPs etc. - that's where the real magic happens!

Best of luck!

Answer 2

Hi there,

Just be genuine and treat it like a normal professional conversation as you would anyone!

It's likely that they will drive the discussion a bit, though it's good that you're looking to be prepared.

Just ask them if they have any advice on x and y for you. Any learnings/insights they can share. Talk about the project, ask about the industry, etc.

Answer 3

Hello!

Most likely it will be them guiding the discussion and asking your questions.

however, it´s great that you come prepared to those meetings, just in case. I think asking about their trajectory and their advice for your first 100 days is a great way to start and make a good impresssion.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara