Congrats!! Getting an interview at McKinsey is a big milestone and shows that your profile already stands out. Let’s make sure you convert it!
If you're serious about this, I’d recommend treating prep somewhat like a part-time job: ~3 hours per day is a good starting point, but the key is to focus on the right things (not just reading cases):
1. Master the McKinsey-specific case format (interviewer-led)
- Learn how to structure top-down issue trees, handle follow-up questions, interpret charts, walk your interviewer through your calculations, and brainstorm in a structured way.
- Don’t just memorize frameworks - focus on breaking problems down logically and flexibly.
2. Do live cases every day
- 1–2 mock interviews per day is great if possible.
- Supplement with solo drills (mental math, structuring, chart reading).
- Prioritize your weakest areas, not just volume.
3. Don’t forget PEI (Fit)
- Start early. Prepare 2–3 strong personal stories for leadership, personal impact, and entrepreneurial drive.
- Go deep — McKinsey will challenge and probe each example.
4. Bonus tip:
- Spar with someone experienced (coach or top-performing peer) at least 2–3 times during your prep to level up your communication, structure, and feedback quality.
I’ve worked at McKinsey Germany for the past years and would be happy to support you. Feel free to reach out for a free intro call to receive more detailed guidance on how to go about your McKinsey interview prep. Natürlich auch auf Deutsch möglich 😉