Changing office location after getting an offer from McKinsey USA

I agree.  Chicago likely will not want to make these changes for you just because you change your mind within a few months.  If you provide a stronger reason, such as partner getting into school in NYC, there could be more of a conversation. 

Also I don't think Covid will incline them to allow you to live in NYC and work out of the Chicago office.  Offices will be trying harder to build community so will be less likely to have someone remote if they don't have to.

Dear A,

I agree with other coaches that is very unlikely to change your office immediately, unless you have for the very-very personal reason. 

Also keep in mind that different offices might have different availability for new positions. 

Hope it helps,

Best,

André

Hi Dee,

I believe that’s very unlikely.

Normally you need at least a couple of years of work experience to move to a new office and a solid reason to ask for the transfer.

Hope this helps,
Francesco

OK I smiled when I read this. It is very unlikely that you would be allowed to change your office preference to probably the most desired office location in the world. It would help if you had an extremely strong personal justification but even then would not count on it

You may be able to change location to an office on par with Chicago but again I don't see it happening without a strong justification and not just 'you feel like it' 

The only time I have seen this happen before 2 years is for extremely important personal reasons usually backed up with reasonable evidence.

Hi Dee,

Especially looking at New York office, this won't work, I would almost guarantee this unfortunately (as NY office is one of the most competitive offices and I have a very close contact working there on partner level > close to impossible to transfer to NY at the moment).

For other offices: maybe if a) supply and demand meet for the firm and b) you have a strong rationale for that.

Hope that helps - if so, please be so kind and give it a thumbs-up with the green upvote button below!

Robert

Hi there,

While I do find this highly unlikely, it doesn't hurt to ask when the time comes. That said, you will have to provide a very real/serious reason (generally family).

Despite the "exodus" that is happening in New York, I do think your odds are very low. Your best bet is to temper expectations in terms of an immediate transfer.

Now, when you do join, here's the best way to optimize your chances of getting a transfer 1-2 years in

1) Build a stellar reputation - do good work, work hard, and be known as "the guy/gal" for xx

2) Build your network - network agressively (yes, networking doesn't end once you've gotten the job offer). Make sure you're known by and have allies in people who make decisions such as staffing managers, Partners (specifically those responsible for recruiting/resources and who are heads of industry/function verticals), etc.

2) b). When I say network "aggressively" please don't be needy/annoying :) There's nothing worse than someone who is obviously working the room or trying to please!

3) Look out for opportunities - as mentioned in this Q&A already, look for office transfers, short-term projects, ambassadorships, etc.)

4) Practice patience and be flexible - how long have you tried for? This might take a year. And you need to be ready to go at the flip of a coin.

Hi there,

I agree with other experts. It is not a good question to ask except you have a strong excuse, but even for an excuse it is not a good way. 

All the best,

GB