McKinsey & Company Which function at McKinsey & Company is the strongest? i.e., generating the most revenue, better reputation/exit opportunities, higher pay, faster promotion, WLB, etc.
Which function has the easiest interview? Or no difference on the difficulty level at all during the interview process? Is it better to join as a generalist or a specific team then switch internally if needed?
Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
Mentor
That’s not really how this works…
Could you clarify more? How are McKinsey functions classified and do people under different functions rarely work on the same project?
It’s the same interview process for all, please don’t bother trying to game the system
All roles of the same banding (e.g. asc equiv) get paid the same. They get the same % bonus based on performance YE. The major pay difference comes from the geography you are in.
The interview process for all is the same (expect technical roles which require extra technical interviews). The same standard is applied across all, and sometimes the interviewer may not even be from the applied to specialism (e.g. could be a generalist or someone from somewhere else) so again, doesn’t make a difference what one you apply to.
When in the firm you have to do at least 50% of your time in the area you’re tied to (unless you’re a generalist). Often this ends up being more unless you’re smart about it. If you really like a specific area then it does makes sense to apply to it, as it will bring you closer to the practice and make it easier to be staffed on what you want. If you want full flexibility, then generalist is your choice.
Generalists are generally hired post-mba or post-undergrad depending on the geography. Experienced hires are more likely to hired into an expert area, essentially because we’re hiring them for their expertise. That does not mean it’s not possible for an EH to be hired as a generalist, it’s just less common.
Like many people have said, it feels like you just want to take the system. Usually this attitude comes through somewhere in the application process and often you’ll be rejected because of it. The system is specifically designed in a way to limit the games you’re trying to play. There’s a set standard across the board you need to pass and if you don’t, no matter what role you apply to, you won’t get in.
Try choosing what actually aligns with your interest and experience. Then you’re more likely to succeed.
Good luck.
Thank you for the detailed response. It’s very helpful!
Reading between the lines, it seems you’re trying to optimise for the “easiest” way into a generalist role, irrespective of fit/interests.
I would not recommend this - have seen people start their time here with a tagline of “looking to switch”, and they become quite miserable when they realise it’s a 2 year intense process. Also gives me pause to work with them as they’re insecure/unscrupulous enough to try to game the system.
To your specific question though: the firm is more like a multi-dimensional matrix, above you’ve laid out the functional lens, but there’s also industries and specific solutions/teams. Each has a website and culture, hope you find the one that fits best for you!
Likely different answers for each criteria on your list.
Interview process is similar across the board, although some technical roles differ.
Not sure I fully understand your last question… better in what way?
In terms of short term career progression, will you get promoted faster if you join as generalist or a specific function?
It’s not the function but practices that makes revenue here. For example, is it pharma, banking or tech, for a random information banking and finance makes the highest contribution to firm revenue.
semiconductor
Technical Architect at Digital is the best choice for your questions. You should start training for the technical interview.