McKinsey QuantumBlack: Is “We’re looking forward to working with you” a soft yes?

Question

Hi all,

I recently posted about my status after completing final-round interviews for the McKinsey QuantumBlack Immersion Program on May 19. While the decision window was originally set for May 19–23, I received this message on May 23 instead:

“Congratulations for successfully completed your assessment process. We are gathering all the feedback for calibration and will keep you posted on final result in the next 1–2 week. Meanwhile, happy to connect and address any question you might have…”

They also invited me to an optional 1:1 Zoom session with HR while waiting for the result — which I joined on May 29.

During the call, I asked about feedback. I even mentioned that I thought I may have messed up the case interview, but the HR rep reassured me, saying that in these types of interviews, “there’s no right or wrong”. She then added that I did “quite well” overall, though she couldn’t share more since nothing was final yet.

However, at the end of the conversation, she said:

“We are looking forward to working with you.”

I’m trying not to over interpret it, but that phrasing felt quite intentional — especially given how McKinsey is typically careful with wording.

🧠 To anyone with McKinsey or MBB experience:
Does this kind of phrase usually signal a soft yes or unofficial offer? Or is it commonly used even when a candidate might still be on the edge?

I’d really appreciate any insight. 🙏

Answer 1

If they really said that, it is a very strong indication that an offer is coming

If you want to discuss more, don't hesitate to chat me. In my opinion, investing in a career coach that will help you get early promotions, help you strategize to get the best projects and that shares their network will probably give you a 50x in return over 10 years

Answer 2

It sounds like a soft yes, but best to wait for the offer before you celebrate!

Answer 3

Hi there,

“She then added that I did “quite well” overall, though she couldn’t share more since nothing was final yet.”

It may be a yes or no, really hard to tell as there are ambiguous hints in this interaction.

Let’s hope for the best, fingers crossed!

Best,

Mari

Answer 4

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on going through the entire application process with McKinsey QuantumBlack!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

First of all, even if the phrase "We are looking forward to working with you" is not something a recruiter would say casually at McKinsey QuantumBlack, I would strongly advise you not to read anything into this. Recruiters do not decide whether you will receive the offer or not.
Moreover, I would therefore advise you to stay cautiously optimistic and avoid reading anything into single sentences. McKinsey QuantumBlack does stay polished with wording, but recruiters are human too, and sometimes expressions just come out naturally.

You can find more on this topic here: How to deal with a rejection from a consulting company.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen