I’m curious about what people think regarding McKinsey’s hiring plans for experienced hires in the first quarter of 2025. Has anyone heard anything about their recruitment strategy or timeline?
Currently I’m working at a second-tier consulting firm with about 12 months of experience under my belt. I’m hoping to transition to McKinsey as a lateral hire for a business analyst position, specifically targeting their Chicago or Minneapolis locations. The timing seems right for me to make this move, but I want to understand if McKinsey is actively recruiting experienced professionals or if they’re being more selective this cycle.
Any insights about their hiring patterns, what they look for in lateral candidates, or general advice for someone in my situation would be really helpful. I know the process can be competitive but I’m trying to gauge if it’s worth preparing for applications now or waiting until later in the year.
McKinsey’s gonna be brutal in 2025 with the economy being shaky. They’re technically hiring, but 12 months of experience won’t cut it against their insane standards. They get thousands of applications per opening, and your second-tier firm background? That’s actually a red flag for them since they’re obsessed with Ivy League candidates. Have a solid backup plan because this “perfect timing” idea is pretty unrealistic.
I’ve been through similar moves in consulting, so here’s my take on McKinsey timing. Their lateral hiring depends on project needs and client demands, but Q1 2025 usually picks up when they’re staffing new engagements.
You’re at an interesting spot with twelve months under your belt. McKinsey cares more about problem-solving skills and culture fit than how long you’ve been around. Your second-tier firm experience can actually help if you can show specific client impact and strong analytical work.
Chicago and Minneapolis both have steady demand for experienced analysts, especially if you’ve got relevant industry background. Don’t wait - start prepping now and keep an eye on their job postings. The whole process takes forever anyway, so starting early gives you time to nail your case interviews and build solid stories around your consulting work. Right now the market rewards candidates who can jump in and add value immediately.
McKinsey’s actively hiring laterals - your timing’s spot on! They want people who can jump in immediately. Highlight your client wins and analytical chops. Chicago and Minneapolis offices are both expanding quickly. Go for it!
mcKinsey’s definitely been aggressive with lateral hires lately, but don’t buy into all the hype. Sure, there are openings, but you’ll need to stand out big time. get solid references from current clients and connect with McKinsey alums at networking events before you apply blind.
McKinsey’s Q1 2025 lateral hiring looks solid right now. Consulting firms usually have 15-20% turnover each year, so there’s always demand for experienced people. Your 12 months of experience is actually perfect - you get client work but haven’t locked into another firm’s way of doing things yet. Both Chicago and Minneapolis offices have been growing their healthcare and financial services teams, which means they need more analysts. Their hiring process takes about 6-8 weeks, so if you apply now you’ll hit those Q1 start dates. Make sure you’ve got solid numbers from your current job and get ready for their case interviews - they’re different from standard consulting cases. They hired 30% more lateral hires in 2024 vs 2023, so the momentum’s definitely there.
McKinsey’s been hitting laterals hard lately, especially people with your background. I know someone who jumped from a similar firm to McKinsey last year - said it was surprisingly smooth once they got in the door.
The big thing? Nail your “why McKinsey” story beyond just prestige. They want specifics about capabilities or client types that excite you. With 12 months experience, you’re in the sweet spot - not too green, not stuck in your ways. I’d start hitting up their recruiters now since these processes drag on forever anyway.