Partner Final Round Question

Hi there,

Q: Is it fine if I ask him that across my research I've seen that he has worked at several places before joining McKinsey. What would be the best differential that sets McKinsey apart. Do you think that would be a suitable question?

I think the topic is fine if you don’t frame it as “Why is McKinsey better?”, which might be perceived as too direct/challenging. Rather, I would frame it as:

1. What led him to move to McKinsey from his previous company
2. What are the most interesting growth opportunities he found at McKinsey compared to his previous experiences

In this way, you can let him talk about (i) the positive aspects of the transition and (ii) his own experience, which are both good to leave a positive impression.

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

Yes, it's a fair question!

Also, remember that most Partners love talking about subject matter (i.e. industry shifts, work they've done, etc.), so feel free to pivot here as well.

Here's some more behavioral reading for you: https://www.preplounge.com/en/tell-me-about-yourself-interview-question

Hi there!

Yes, that's a nice question and it shows that you've read about his background and that you're asking something specific about him. 

You could also try and think whether you can connect the question in any way to yourself - perhaps you also switched places a few times. You could ask him how this experience changed him and then relate to how it changed you. 

At the end of the day, this is meant to be a conversation.

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations on the progress in the application process with McKinsey thus far!

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

• First of all, the question you propose certainly is suitable. It shows that you've done your research about the partner's background, and it could lead to a meaningful conversation about the unique value proposition of McKinsey as seen from his perspective. It allows for the partner to share his personal insights, which can be very insightful for you.
• Moreover, I would highly advise you not to focus on asking the most interesting questions, but on asking those questions where the answers are insightful for you, and where you will leave a positive impression. For instance, asking the partner about his perspective on where McKinsey will be heading in the next 5 years might be insightful for you, whether you plan to spend 5 years or more at the firm or not.
• Similarly, I would highly advise you not to ask any questions that you could easily research on your own as this may not necessarily leave a positive impression.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming final interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there, 

congrats to making it to final round, first of all. Yes, your question is fine and suitable.

In general, I suggest you don't fixate too much on finding “the most interesting / intelligent” questions. Interviewers don't care about that, they just want to have a real, genuine conversation with the candidate. 

It's about the overall impression, and honsetly speaking, if a candidate's questions come across as too fabricated / aiming to just tick the box, if anything, it will reflect negatively. Hence, keep it natural and genuine.

Hope this helps. 

Regards, Andi

Sounds like a reasonable approach. I would also try to address the strategic levels of his work and where he sees the industry moving towards etc.

Definitely avoid process and tactical questions that any recruiter could answer for you.

Good luck