What can I expect from McKinsey onboarding?

Hi there,

McKinsey onboarding is structured but also designed to be engaging. As a new grad hire, here’s what you can expect:

Immersion Days

• Typically office-level, before you go to global training.
• Focused on introducing you to your home office culture, leadership team, and support resources (professional development managers, staffing coordinators, mentors).
• You’ll meet your start group (other new joiners) and often do light case/skill workshops, networking events, and team-building activities.
• It’s a chance to get comfortable with the people and the local environment you’ll be working in.

Embark Program

• This is the global onboarding, usually held with new consultants from many different offices around the world.
• You’ll go through structured training on problem-solving, communication, and consulting toolkits.
• Expect simulations of client work, group exercises, and coaching from experienced consultants.
• The emphasis is also on building your international network – you’ll spend a lot of time bonding with peers over dinners, activities, and social events.

Is it fun?

• Yes – many people remember onboarding as one of the highlights of their first year. It’s lighter and more social than real project work.
• You’ll get to travel (if in-person), meet inspiring people, and form friendships with your cohort.

Overall, onboarding is a mix of learning, networking, and fun – designed to make you feel part of McKinsey before the real client work starts.

Best,

Evelina

Hey there :)

Congrats on your offer! I also went through McKinsey onboarding and really enjoyed it. Immersion Days are mainly about meeting your new colleagues, learning about the firm’s culture, and getting some first trainings on problem-solving, communication, and the toolkit you’ll use on projects. The Embark Program is more of a global new hire event where you connect with peers from all over the world, work on interactive exercises, and get exposure to senior leaders. It’s definitely fun and a great way to build your network before your first staffing.

best, Alessa :)