McKinsey giving me an offer only if I am unemployed?!

Hi there,

I would talk to McK HR and find out what alternatives they propose if they really want you (which I assume since they wouldn't have given you an offer otherwise).

By taking the McK offer but staying sidelined until September, you are incurring opportunity cost. Depending on how urgently you need cashflow, it might be worth to explore things like an earlier start date with McK or some form of signing bonus from them. 

Otherwise, you also might enjoy some time off to travel or just recharge as you will be kept busy enough in consulting when the time comes.

Best of luck

Most likely they have an agreement to not to hire from that company… (may even be a verbal / non-written agreement). May even be a "gentlemen's agreement).

You have to pick up the phone and negotiate this. It's clear you want the Mckinsey job and will later quit this job to join them. As such, why do you still want to join that firm and quit later on (which lets be honest, it's not a fair way to act towards that employer and yes, will damage your reputation)?

Probably because you need the money. So… negotiate with Mckinsey. Either a sign up bonus, starting earlier, being able to do an internship with them for a couple of months, etc. Think about a few possibilities. And ask for them.

Auch. That's unfortunate. I'm sorry to hear about it. 

They fear that if you leave short notice from this other job it might damage McKinsey's reputation. 

Honestly, at this point, there's not much that you can do but choose between the options that you have. 

And I assume sticking with McKinsey would make more sense.

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

My guess is that it's one of their clients and they have an agreement in place not to hire from this particular client.

I had two similar cases with my clients in the past in completely different locations and with completely different clients.

I am afraid there is nothing you can do about it as clients and client agreements are always the top priority…

Cheers,

Florian

Hi there,

Q: I don`t understand this request for me to be unemployed before joining them?

I would recommend having a call with HR, this should clarify their needs and hopefully help find a solution. If you would like to start working earlier than September, you could try to negotiate an earlier start with McKinsey instead of joining the other company.

Good luck!

Francesco

How will they know what you do?  

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the offer from McKinsey!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

• I would highly advise you to communicate openly with your McKinsey HR contact about your current situation. Explain the reasons for accepting another offer and the importance of job security to you. I am certain there will be a solution that will serve both parties.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

As previously mentioned, there might be risks involved for McKinsey, especially if the other company is a client of the firm. 

Given the other offer, have you considered asking the recruiter if you can move the start date earlier if you're currently available to work?

Best,

Yousef

Think the company you are about to join is a present or future McKinsey client. How this company would think about McKinsey “stealing” an employee a few days after he/she starts?