BREAKING: McKinsey Moving Some Decision Rounds In-Person
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BREAKING: McKinsey Moving Some Decision Rounds In-Person

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This week marks a notable moment for the consulting recruiting world: Management Consulted has heard from multiple sources that some McKinsey candidates have their decision-round interviews in person, starting as soon as this week (the week of June 23). Since 2020, nearly all rounds at top firms like McKinsey have gone virtual, using tools like Zoom or Teams. This shift back to face-to-face encounters may signal a strategic recalibration - especially for final rounds - with implications across the industry.

Our COO Namaan Mian talked about this impending shift on a recent podcast (see below). In short, as travel ramps back up and in-office requirements increase, firms are moving back to in-person interviews to assess how candidates will interact with clients and colleagues alike.

Looking for in-person case training to prepare for the new reality? Join the NYC Case Camp (June 27-29, 2025) - just 0 seats left.

Are Other Firms Doing The Same?

There’s anecdotal evidence that in-person interviews, particularly for final rounds, are making a comeback across the industry. We’ve heard from multiple candidates who are reporting occasional invitations in person when logistically feasible.

However, virtual interviews remain the most common across the industry (especially for first round interviews). Candidates going through virtual interviews only should not expect bias in results, as the firms rely on structured evaluation tools to ensure fair assessments regardless of format.

How Candidates Should Prepare For In-Person Case Interviews

  1. Plan Logistics: Arrive early, allowing for delays - consulting is client-centric, and punctuality matters.
  2. Build Rapport: Leverage non-verbal cues - smiles, eye contact, confident posture - to engage and connect.
  3. Polish Your Case Skills: Practice interviewer-led McKinsey cases with our McKinsey coaches. Be ready to display your structured thinking and flexibility, since partners often throw curveballs or pivot mid-case inside of a final round interview.
  4. Prepare PEI Stories: Have 2-3 strong Personal Experience Interview stories on leadership, impact, and entrepreneurial drive. These are assessed in every round .
  5. Simulate In-Person Pressure: Do mock interviews in conference rooms to mirror the in-office experience and get comfortable with ambient stresses. Our NYC Case Camp – happening June 27-29 – is a great opportunity to do just that.

Conclusion

As consulting firms recalibrate toward in-person decision rounds, candidates should treat this as a strategic advantage, not a hurdle. Face-to-face interviews offer richer interaction opportunities, provided you’re well-prepared. Perform at your peak through polished cases, strong PEIs, and confidence in your executive presence – and you’ll leave a memorable impression.

 

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