How long does McKinsey take to respond after Final Round Interview for Product Owner Position?

Question

Hi,

So I received an email to apply for Product Owner Position in McKinsey digital. The entire process till the final round took 9 months since the interview was often rescheduled.

my final interview took place in May and on Jun 6th, the recruiter asked me for my pay slip and any additional benefits along with the equity that I am receiving in my current organisation.

Since then, I didn’t hear back from them. I checked in with the recruiter twice. The first time he said it is going to take some time. I followed on Monday and he said we’re still working on it and that he’ll keep me posted. I then asked him if he could tell me where do I stand in the process but he didn’t respond.

At this point, I am confused. Does it take this long for them to decide? Is there a possibility of rejection or that they’re working on an offer.

The position is based in Pakistan. But I will be relocating to another city if the offer is made.

P.S. A friend who got into the Dubai team as an Engineer said her interviews took 5-6 month and then offer to onboarding and relocation took 3-4 months.

Answer 1

Hi Aleeya,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about your negative experience with McKinsey, despite having passed all interviews!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

First of all, the time McKinsey takes to respond can vary depending on the role, office, and other factors. In general, however, it takes only a few weeks for them to get back to you after the final interview round.
However, in your case, the request for additional documents related to your pay and benefits might be a positive signal. It often implies they are preparing an offer, even if it doesn't guarantee it.
Lastly, I would advise you to maintain patient, stay in a positive attitude, and keep following up with the recruiter periodically without appearing too pushy.

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

Answer 2

Hi Aleeya,

Q: Does it take this long for them to decide? Is there a possibility of rejection or that they’re working on an offer.

Normally offers are extended at least verbally a few days after the final interview so this is quite unusual.

A possible answer is that (i) you passed the interview but (ii) they are not sure whether to keep the position open / which starting date to have for it due to uncertainty with their pipeline.

Unfortunately if you have already followed up you cannot do much more unless you have a competing offer. If you do have one, I would call to explain you will have to provide an answer to the other opportunity and ask for an update - this should hopefully speed up the process.

Good luck!

Francesco

Answer 3

Hi there,

Wow, that's long indeed. Sorry, this must be quite stressful for you.

Basically, they're taking this long because these firms are in a tough spot with hiring at the moment. So they want to take decisions that minimize their risk.

Keep in touch with them and ask for updates at least every two weeks.

Aside from this, I'd recommend you continue applying to diversify your own risk. Here's a guide on how to do this:

Maximising your chances of getting a consulting job during an economic downturn

Best,
Cristian

Answer 4

Hi Aleeya,

I've been coaching for a long time, but you might have the record for longest time of “active” interview proces I've ever seen.

Short answer: Yes. There is always a posibility of rejection until a full offer is made and signed.

Look, basically this isn't about you but rather about them. Either they are trying to figure if they can still hire someone (i.e. if they have enough work to justify it) AND/OR they're just a mess of a department/office.

Either way, balance out your followups (not too frequent but also not too infrequent). Stay patient/calm/polite and consider calling directly when needed instead of email.

Advice: If you have other interviews/offers, don't turn them down just yet. You “should” be fine, but it's never gaurenteed until you're in the office.

Congrats and I hope the process finalizes soon for you!

Answer 5

Hello,

If you've checked in with the recruiter recently and they've told you they're still working on it, that's exactly what's happening. They have no incentive to lie to you - as soon as a firm decision is made, they will let you know about it. I would just stay patient for now - and best of luck!