Hey there,

Never heard of that and it's a bit uncommon. McKinsey Germany usually has no intake in December since due to training and Christmas break, you would likely not be staffed on your first engagement during this month.

My guess is that they are looking for one person and are understaffed. Sounds like either

• proposal work
• some internal knowledge study
• direct client need (unlikely without training)

If you have the time, go for it. 1 month salary for 1 week of work does not sound too bad. :-)

Cheers,

Florian

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the offer and this special opportunity!

This is indeed an interesting question which is probably relevant for quite a lot of users, so I am happy to provide my perspective on it:

• First of all, this seems to be very uncommon. Most probably either the company is heavily understaffed at the moment - the chances that you bring in some expert knowledge is rather rare (since it seems to be your first/ second job).
• Still, it is most probably a unique opportunity to 1) get some (additional) salary and 2) get to know the company ahead of the real start. I personally would try to make it happen.
• I would advise you to clarify on the more operational matters such as holidays with HR directly.

In case you want a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare you upcoming career entry, please feel free to contact me directly.

I hope this helps,

Hagen

Hi there,

I've never seen this happen before, but I think it's great!

I have no concerns here. In fact, I think it's great - you'll get holiday pay and get a quick “warmup” at the company.

I say go for it! (But confirm with HR that you x through x dates off)

Hi there,

Congratulations on the offer!

1) Is this a common practice? 

Not really, but possible if the company is quickly looking for internal support for unexpected needs. 

From what you shared seems a good opportunity to have a “safe” start (you may notice some areas of improvement and then have time to work on that during holidays).

2) Does this at all affect my ability to take holidays next year? 

I would check that with HR.

3) And are there any other downsides that I should be aware of?

The only possible downside I can think of is that they will staff you during the holidays due to an urgent project. Unlikely, but since you are new you won’t have negotiating power on this.

Best,

Francesco

I think it is a great opportunity to get started. 

• You will have besides your salary for December also a Christmas break right after your first work week. 
• You can use this time for preparation (e.g. getting used to working with different support teams, setting up everything, etc.)

Usually, you need to take 1-2 days from your holidays for the Christmas break off. Definitely check with HR on this. It shouldn't affect your holidays in general much for next year.

This is slightly unusual but not unheard of. If you can, make the early start, settle in and enjoy the better festive atmosphere. People will be in a better mood, so you can ease into the company.

Congrats and all the best!

It's not very common but it means they need someone immediately. If you accept, you create goodwill as you are showing flexibility and helped them solve a problem, you will get a headstart without much risk (i.e., a leg up over your cohort, and therefore extra work time before evaluation period) and also a chance to cause a good impression and gain priority next year on the best projects. 

Finally, the last week in December will simply be “beach time", i.e., I don't believe they would reduce your vacation next year (I don't even think they could legally do this, but of course depends on the country legislation).

So… I'd go for it!