McKinsey

Yes, 100% reach out to him.

Profiles like that are exactly the ones you should be targeting. He’s gone through a similar path, so he’ll likely be more open and more relevant than a “standard” candidate.

A few tips on how to do it well:

• Keep it simple and genuine
• Mention the similarities (Saudi, non-target, non-traditional background)
• Don’t ask for a referral upfront
• Ask for a short chat to understand his journey

Something like:
“Hi, I came across your profile and was really interested given your background at Saudi Aramco and your move to McKinsey & Company. I’m also coming from a non-traditional path and would really value hearing about your experience if you have 15 minutes.”

That’s enough.

Then if he replies, try to move to a quick call. On the call:

• ask how he positioned his background
• what helped him most in recruiting
• what he would do differently

And only if the conversation goes well, you can naturally ask for advice on your profile or next steps.

Also, don’t worry too much about things like CFA, CME, etc. — they’re not the main driver. His story and positioning are.

So yes, definitely reach out. That’s exactly the right move.

There is no such thing as a target profile or usual MBB candidate, especially at the entry level. In fact, his background brings unique sector and industry experience which is genuinely valued by clients these days, especially in the Saudi market where Aramco exposure is a real asset.

Reach out to him on LinkedIn. Several factors likely helped him get his foot in the door including networking with the right people, coffee chats, and being deliberate about positioning his experience. Ask him about that part specifically, it will be more useful than asking generally how he got in.

Once you are in the door, it comes down to cracking interviews through rigorous case practice and the right attitude.

Hi there,

That's a great idea.

Definitely do it. 

Send him a quick message outlining that you have a similar background and that you're impressed he joined McKinsey. Ask him for a quick chat. 

People love to discuss these things and share advice. 

Adding here a short guide on how to conduct these conversations:

• • Expert Guide: How To Handle Networking Calls and Get Referrals

Best,
Cristian

Of course! Why not? Nothing to lose.

That said, in the time you've investigated him, thought about this, typed into a Q&A, read the Q&A, and then messaged on LinkedIn, you could have sent 100 messages! You're networking wrong (by wrong I mean inefficiently). Rethink your approach :)

I built a course on this if you want to get the networking side right: Applications Course

Yes, reach out. This is exactly the kind of LinkedIn outreach that works. You share a meaningful overlap, Saudi national, non-target school, non-typical background. He's likely to remember being in your position.

Send a short personalised connection note. Don't ask for a referral upfront, ask for 15 minutes to learn about his journey. Don't pitch yourself, don't write a long message.

On the call, ask how he positioned his Aramco experience, his case prep approach, and how he networked into Riyadh. Listen more than you talk. End by asking to stay in touch.

Good luck.

hi there! 

Reaching out is a great idea. People with non‑traditional paths are usually the most open and helpful, and the fact that he shares your background and nationality makes it even more natural. Keep your message short, friendly, and focused on learning about his journey rather than asking for anything. Something like: you noticed his path, it inspired you, and you’d love to hear how he approached the process. That’s it. His certifications don’t matter much for consulting, so don’t worry about that part.

Alessa