Travel question

Question

Hi everyone,

If anyone could help me with this question, I would truly appreciate it. I recently “networked” my way into McKinsey at the Associate Partner level (Expert track), despite not having a traditional consulting background—aside from an internship I did years ago.

I’m not entirely familiar with the lifestyle, but I’ve heard many stories about how much travel is involved. That’s not a major concern, as I traveled quite a bit in my previous role as well. However, I’d love some insight: at the level I’m coming in at, how much travel should I realistically expect? What’s the typical frequency? What hotels are generally used, and how does the expensing process work?

I don’t start until September, so I have some time. I know I could ask the firm directly, but I wanted a more raw, unfiltered perspective from those who’ve lived it.The reason I’m asking is because I’m getting married soon and want to begin preparing and organizing our life accordingly.

Thanks so much!

Answer 1

Hello there,

Congratulations on the job offer, that's a great achievement. Also, and more important, congratulations on your wedding!

At the level I’m coming in at, how much travel should I realistically expect?

APs usually are responsible for more than one project simultaneously. That means that you will probably have to travel every week (from Monday morning to Thursday Afternoon) and sometimes to more than one city during the same week. For instance, I was allocated to a global project once and the AP had to travel domestically (a 2h flight + time in airport) and to other country every week (a 10h flight + time in airport). It may be that you'll be allocated in your own town, but considering the fact that you'll deal with multiple projects, it is likely that you'll travel at least once very week. Even though you'll fligh in the business class and count with VIP lounges, concierges and etc. it is wearing to say the least.

What hotels are generally used, and how does the expensing process work?

5 starts hotels in general. You usually book them through a third party company and there is no need to do the expense report for that. You can bring your spouse if you pay for it (but usually it is not expensive, McKinsey has great deals with hotel chains).

You haven't asked, but it is worth considering the workload too. The lifestyle is unsustainable for most of the consultants as all the fancy support usually don't offset the long hours of work (60-90/week) and the constant traveling.

I recommend you to search for a former AP through LinkedIn to get more insights from someone no longer attached to the firm.

Best,

Mari