McKinsey & Company is quietly piloting a new interview component that reflects a deeper shift in how consulting work is done: the McKinsey AI Interview. Based on recent feedback from my MBA coaching clients in the U.S., candidates in select U.S. offices are now being asked to collaborate live with McKinsey’s internal AI platform, Lilli,…
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The McKinsey Sea Wolf game (part of the McKinsey Solve assessment) is a 30-minute optimization simulation where candidates must select microbial treatments under time pressure. It is where most rejected applicants lose their chance at a first-round interview. Underestimating it is the default mistake. After collecting hundreds of test-taker debriefs, I can tell you exactly…
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Navigating the McKinsey interview process requires more than just showcasing your analytical skills or listing your professional accomplishments. It’s about sharing your journey, the challenges you’ve faced, and how you’ve overcome them, especially when it comes to the Personal Experience Interview (PEI). Within this critical part of the McKinsey interview, the Drive dimension is particularly…
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Updated May 2026 · By Florian Smeritschnig, Former McKinsey Senior Consultant The McKinsey Keep In Touch Program (KIT) is a re-engagement invitation McKinsey extends to candidates who came close to an offer but did not make it, typically due to a near-miss case, a borderline PEI, an experience gap, or timing within the recruiting cycle.…
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From Classroom to Boardroom If you’re a PhD or PhD student with a background in research and academia, transitioning into the fast-paced environment of top consulting firms may seem like a significant shift. However, many PhDs successfully make this move, applying their analytical skills and problem-solving abilities in a new context with firms like McKinsey,…
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Florian spent five years at McKinsey as a Senior Consultant and is a highly experienced consulting interviewer and problem-solving coach. Having conducted interviews with hundreds of candidates, he understands exactly what top-tier firms look for in successful applicants.
He founded StrategyCase.com to make top consulting careers more accessible by providing tailored, up-to-date insights into the recruiting process. Recognized as the most successful case and fit interview coach, Florian has helped his clients secure 700+ offers at MBB, Tier-2 firms, Big 4 consulting divisions, in-house consultancies, and boutique firms over the past four years.
He is the author of “The 1%: Conquer Your Consulting Case Interview,” “The 1%: Case Interview Workbook,” and “Consulting Career Secrets”, all available on Amazon.
