Got McKinsey referral email - what happens next in the process?

Need help understanding McKinsey recruitment process after referral

I applied for a Business Analyst position at McKinsey India through their website. Someone from LinkedIn also referred me internally. Two weeks later, I received this email:

Hello, I hope you are doing well. I am contacting you because our team member XX thinks you could be successful at McKinsey. We want to learn more about you and what you have achieved. If we find a position that fits your background and skills, we will reach out about the next steps. For now, you can visit our Career page to learn about our team, company culture, and current openings. Thank you for connecting with us. Best wishes, McKinsey Referrals Team. Note: This message is not a job offer. If you submit an application, we will review it using our normal evaluation process.

When I looked at my account, the original job posting now appears under “past applications” since the role closed. I’m confused about what this means. Are they still considering me? Should I respond to their email? What kind of questions might they ask if they contact me? Any advice would be helpful since I’m not sure what to expect next.

i totally get it! that email seems like a good sign that they still consider you. the change in your app status is usual, so no worries. just chill and wait for them to reach out!

That’s awesome! A referral email means you’re definitely on their radar. Don’t worry about the status change - they’re genuinely interested in you for future opportunities!

lol classic McKinsey move - sending you a non-committal “we think you’re cool but maybe not cool enough right now” email. That referral email is just their polite way of saying “we’ll keep your resume in our maybe pile.” The job posting disappeared because it’s already filled, but they’re covering their bases in case the chosen candidate flakes. Don’t hold your breath waiting for them to reach out, but yeah definitely respond professionally if you want to play their game.