McKinsey prep

Hello,

Congratulations! To answer your questions: 

First, question, how crazy is this? 

Not too crazy - your CV and cover letter must have impressed them! Recruiting works on weird timelines sometimes.

Second, any tips to guide my preparation for Solve, and beyond? 

I'd also refer you to Francesco's answer. He's developed some good tools for Solve that many candidates I've worked with have had success using.

Third, I'm travelling a lot this month, trips I booked last year, is it insane for me to ask to put the process on hold until I'm back in country? 

I think there's no harm in asking this, the worst they can say is no.

Best of luck!

Hi there,

Amazing! Congrats!

1) Not crazy - just how it is

2) I recommend MCP and Francesco

3) Personally, I think yes. The recruiting channel is locked in if you're applying through your school.

Here's some reading to help with the interview itself!

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/pitfalls-case-interview-preparation

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-shift-your-mindset-to-ace-the-case

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/tell-me-about-yourself-interview-question

Not crazy. They have the Solve exactly for situations like yours. It's a way to further tests candidates from non-targets schools, so they are able to access that talent pool, but at the same time are sure that they'll be spending time interviewing high probability candidates.

Coach Francesco should have some good tools for Solve. Reach out to him through message.

Yes, you can ask them to give you more time. Although that would make more sense AFTER you do the solve, and not before.

Hi there,

1) How crazy is this? 

Well done! Not crazy if your CV is solid. Additionally, McKinsey may perform now an assessment of the test and CV after the game.

2) Any tips to guide my preparation for Solve, and beyond? 

You can find an article below with a few tips:

▶ McKinsey Problem-Solving Game Article

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If you want to prepare further, you can find below a video simulation with:

• 23 videos showing how to crack the Ecosystem Game in 23 minutes (instead of the recommended 35), resist 25+ turns in the Plant Defense (instead of the minimum target of 15) and prepare for the 4 Phases of the new Redrock Study (including tips for the 10 cases)
• Automated Excel with Formulas to build a food chain in the Ecosystem game in 13 minutes
• PDF guide with all 6 possible games and how to crack each of them

You can check the video simulation at the following link (full disclosure, I am the author):

▶ McKinsey PSG Solve Video Simulation

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3) Is it insane for me to ask to put the process on hold until I'm back in country? 

It’s not a problem to ask HR, worst case they will say it is not possible. I would recommend calling rather than sending an email if possible.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there!

Congrats! I love the energy and the humour in your sense of surprise. 

It's by no means crazy to ask to postpone the process. You can tell them that you're excited about the opportunity but this is unfortunately not the right time for you professionally and personally and you'd appreciate some additional time. 

I've never seen this fail. 

Then you can take a step back and prepare properly. Sharing with you here a guide on how to set up a successful application strategy:

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

Best,
Cristian