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Mckinsey Offer on hold

Hello,

A couple of weeks ago, I finalized the process for a product-related role at McKinsey. Since then, I’ve followed up with the recruiter a couple of times. A few days ago, HR told me there's some hold-up from management in the U.S and they are working on it to get me an offer. They mentioned that all the interviewers really liked my profile. They said they’re trying to resolve it, but nothing conclusive yet. They mentioned some other roles might have the same issue. They didn't explain much but I don't think it's a budget problem but maybe internal process or hiring hold?

My question is: should I assume this isn't going to work out? When we started the process about a month ago, they were looking at a June/July joining date. From the last conversation, the HR person seemed pretty helpless. It feels like one of those situations where the offer doesn’t come through and the role either gets cut or put on indefinite hold.

What should my expectations be here, and what would be the right course of action? If anyone has been through something similar, what could be the possible issue?

Thanks!

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Top answer
Mihir
Coach
on May 16, 2025
McKinsey Associate Partner and interviewer | Bulletproof MBB prep

Firstly, congratulations on your performance in these interviews.

These processes are a little opaque and it’s hard to know what the final outcome will be without knowing what specifically is causing the delay. 

I would suggest continuing to follow up periodically, but also moving forward with other companies if feasible. If the position has indeed been put on hold then it’s better to have other options in progress, rather than just waiting it out.

 Best of luck.

Alessa
Coach
on May 19, 2025
xMcKinsey & Company | xBCG | xRB | >400 coachings | feel free to schedule an intro call for free

hey there!

It sounds like you're in a holding pattern due to internal approvals or shifting priorities—fairly common in large firms like McKinsey. It doesn’t necessarily mean a rejection, but it's smart not to rely on it as a sure thing. Keep conversations open with HR, but continue exploring other opportunities in parallel so you’re not left waiting indefinitely.

Alessa

Mariana
Coach
on May 17, 2025
Free CV evaluation | xMckinsey | 1.5h session | +200 sessions | Free 20-min introductory call

Hello there,

I am sorry for you to be in this situation. It seems that even HR doesn’t know how this will end up, so I encourage you to keep your options open, proactively applying to other companies.

Good luck!

Mari

Pedro
Coach
on May 19, 2025
Bain | EY-Parthenon | Former Principal | 1.5h session | 30% discount 1st session

I don't think you should assume it is not going to work out.

BUT... everything suggests that they are not in a place where they will provide you with an offer. Don't throw the towel yet, but don't have high hopes.

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