Seeking Advice on Strategic Reapplication to McKinsey in the Middle East

Hello! 

On the HR point, you could reach out if you want to, but I don’t think it will change much. The person from 2021 may not even be in that role anymore … and McKinsey takes strong reapplicants seriously. If you passed CV screening last time, there’s every reason to believe you can do it again, especially if you can show how you’ve grown since 2021 :)

For timing, fall is typically the busiest season for interviews, but for experienced hires interviews happens all year round so I wouldn’t wait for a “perfect” month.

To your advantage, you’ve already been through the process and this time you know what to expect and how to prepare, I wish you the best of luck!!! 

Without re-iterating what Julia already mentioned, one differentiator may be how convincingly you address the “what’s changed since last time?” question directly on your CV. In the Middle East offices, this is often the first filter recruiters and interviewers apply when they see a familiar name.

That means you need a deliberate narrative showing:

• New and quantifiable achievements since 2021, ideally with leadership or high-impact elements
• Clear, region-relevant exposure (e.g., GCC markets, cross-border transactions, large banking portfolio you're responsible for etc.)
• Evidence that you’ve closed any skill gaps that may have hurt you in your first attempt, whether through case practice, refiend personal fit stories, analytical upskilling, or broader commercial exposure

If you want, I can outline what a strong ME-focused 2nd attempt looks like so you go in with a story that pre-empts any doubts.

Hi there,

1) Would it be worthwhile to reach out to the HR representative who coordinated my previous interview to seek advice before reapplying?

I would rather look for a referral, as this could increase your chances (HR cannot refer you). You can find some tips at the link below:

How to Get an MBB Interview

2) Based on your experience, which months tend to be the most favorable for submitting an application in the Middle East region?

For experienced hires, most offices should hire year-round. Given that the exact hiring situation might differ across offices, you can check with the person referring you in point #1. Unless they state that the office is not hiring now, if you feel ready, it should be fine to apply.

Good luck!

Francesco

Great to see that you want to reapply!

A few pieces of advice

1. Don't consider this to be your last 'shot'. I know McK Partners who got in as BA on their third attempt
2. Don't only apply to McK. At least apply to all MBBs. Luck also plays a role and you want to make sure that it works in your favour.
3. No need to reach out to your interviewers from 2021. 4 years have passed. I bet at least half of them don't even work in the firm anymore. And if they do, I doubt they remember your performance. So if you didn't write down the feedback back then, it's rather late now. Work with a coach to do a baseline assessment of your case performance and then you can get going from there.
4. No specific months are more favourable. But I would avoid 'cohort / campus recruitment periods.' That's when they do lots of interviews so tactically it's better to avoid this and go for 'off-peak' periods. 

You might also find this guide useful:

• Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

Best,
Cristian

Hey there, 

Yes, definitely reach out to the previous HR contact, it shows initiative and professionalism, and they might share insights or timing tips. Keep it short and polite, just asking for advice on timing and how to strengthen your reapplication.

Best months to apply in the Middle East are September to November and February to April, those align with active recruiting cycles, especially for experienced hires.

Make sure your CV clearly shows growth since 2021 and tailor your story to why McKinsey, why now, why ME. I’ve supported others in a similar position and happy to help if you'd like to prep together.

Best,
Alessa :)