McKinsey Final Round Response

Question

Hello all,

After applying for a BA role, I went through the rounds and got my feedback. I skipped one interview, had one with an EM, and then went on to a 3 partner interview. Within an hour of the last interview, that person called my cell phone to tell me that I did very well but was not being selected for this cycle. He then told me that the partners suggested that I change my application to “Associate/Experienced Hire” and work with the recruiter to re-designate my application and also work on some additional prep to apply off-cycle in the spring (6 months). Has anyone experienced this type of response and is there anything beyond what was said that I should know/do?

Answer 1

Hi there,

Congrats on getting this far! This already shows that you have what it takes and you just needs some adjustments along the way.

This does happen sometimes when firms consider that the candidate has potential, but they weren't right for the role they were applying for. If I were you, I would follow the advice you were given, while at the same time applying for other firms as well as a back up option.

Best,

Cristian

Answer 2

This is great news! It means that they really liked you, but that you applied for a role which you’re a bit too experienced for and you need to work on your casing. I’d give the recruiting team a call and ask them how they think you should proceed. Well done!

Answer 3

Hi there,

This is honestly the best bad news you can get.

It means you did well and they liked you, but they didn't view you as experienced enough. A stronger case performance may have helped, but so will gained experience in the next 6 months. Makes sure to build up consulting related experience to add to your resume and get to the next level of casing. Then, re-apply in 6 months!

Answer 4

Hello!

This is indeed a unique situation, but the good thing is that (1) they have you in the radar, (2) they cut the ban period in half for u and (3) they want you in a more senior position.

This is the moment to involve HR in the conversation and ask them about next steps (most likely, they will already schedule you).

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 5

Hi there,

Sorry to hear about the rejection. In terms of your question:

Q: The partners suggested that I change my application to “Associate/Experienced Hire” and work with the recruiter to re-designate my application and also work on some additional prep to apply off-cycle in the spring (6 months). Has anyone experienced this type of response and is there anything beyond what was said that I should know/do?

I heard other cases where a candidate was asked to try again after 6 months only – it means you did well and were very close to the offer.

I find it unusual though that they suggested to apply for an Associate position if you did apply for BA. You can normally target an Associate position if you are post-MBA or have several years of experience. So either you have the experience required and they believe you should have applied for Associate in the first place, or can’t see why they should suggest that position after only 6 months. In any case, HR should be able to clarify.

Good luck!

Francesco

Answer 6

Hello,

I'm sorry to hear that you didn't get the BA role you applied for, but this is definitely very promising! It means you are a strong candidate and they liked you, but were unable to extend you an offer right now for whatever reason. I would take them up on their suggestion, work with the recruiter, and keep working on your case and behavioral prep. Best of luck!

Answer 7

Honestly, I can't make any sense of what they told you. I suggest you check with HR to understand what went wrong.