Next steps Question

Honestly, I don’t think the Partner has given you great advice.

I have seen several executives come in at the Associate Partner level (1 step away from Partner, typically 2-3 years in duration), and I don’t think I have seen an executive come in at the real ‘entry-level’ in 6 years at McK. It’ll likely be either Partner or AP.

They will determine which role is right for you based on your leadership and management experience + seniority. There’s no fixed criteria that I’m aware of. It’s more like a discussion of your CV between the recruiters and the Partners in the sector you’d be focused on. They want to know if you can lead McK teams, secure new projects, and display deep sector expertise.

Once they determine this, they’ll invite you to apply at the right level. Try to secure a referral before applying, if you can.

Hi Jimmy!

yes, that's exactly how it works. Once your resume is shared internally, McKinsey will do a first internal screening to assess where you might fit best in terms of role and level. This is usually based on your experience, current role, and how closely it aligns with their typical profiles. If they see a strong fit, they'll decide whether to move forward and at which level (e.g. Associate, Engagement Manager, etc.) before you officially apply. After that, recruiting will reach out to you with more details and next steps.

Let me know if you'd like help reviewing your resume or preparing for the next steps!

best, Alessa :)

Hi Jimmy,

They will evaluate your CV and determine what level would be more suitable. APs usually are responsible for more than one project simultaneously and have a more hands on experience than partners. As a partner, the role is more relational and commercial with the clients. For you to become a partner if hired as an AP, you’ll have to show you have a unique value proposition (subject matter expertise and ability to sell projects) and  go through the election process to become a partner.

Best,

Mari

Hi Jimmy,

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

• First of all, I am surprised by what the partner told you, as you will most likely enter between an entry-level role and partner role, most likely as an engagement manager or associate partner.
• Moreover, the decision about the right level is usually made before the official application process starts. Once the partner forwards your resume, the recruiter and a few sector-specific decision-makers will review it and suggest a level where they see the best fit for both sides. I would advise you to just wait and prepare for your upcoming McKinsey interviews.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming McKinsey interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi Jimmy,

Sounds like a great conversation!

Yes, McKinsey typically decides your level before you officially apply. Once the partner shares your resume, the recruiting team (often with input from relevant practices) will review it to assess your experience and determine the best entry point — whether that’s Associate, EM, Expert, or even Partner.

If they move forward, a recruiter will contact you to explain the proposed level and next steps. Since you’re coming from an executive role, they’ll likely consider roles like EM, Expert, or Associate Partner, depending on your background.

You’re in a good position with a partner referral — feel free to DM if you’d like to chat more about what to expect and how to best prepare.

Best,

Evelina
 

Hi there, 

Great that you had this chat and it sounds like it went well!

First of all, it's a bit odd that he said that you either go in at entry level or partner level since lots of people go in directly as Associates or EMs or APs - so I would discount that claim somewhat. 

In terms of the process for experienced, senior hires, typically after one of these chats, you get in touch with the recruiter, you have a call with them, and they try to understand your experience to be able to tell where to situate you in terms of seniority within the firm. 

This will then trigger the formal recruitment process, which varies widely by role, especially for senior hires. 

Good luck!
Best,
Cristian