The McKinsey Personal Experience Interview (PEI) is a key aspect of the consulting firm’s recruitment process, aimed at evaluating a candidate’s leadership potential, personal impact and drive, and as such a general fit within the organization. Preparing well for the PEI is crucial to increase one’s chances of success, as the interview is known to be both unique to McKinsey and more challenging than anticipated by virtually all candidates.
This beginners guide will provide a quick overview of the PEI format, offer tips on how to prepare effectively, and share strategies for showcasing your skills and potential.
PEI Format
- The PEI is typically part of each interview slot which you have with your interviewers and lasts around 10-25 minutes, depending on how deep your interviewer wants to go next to the typical case interview. During the interview, you will be asked to reflect on your past experiences and how they have shaped you as a person. The interviewers aim to observe how you approach situations, handle challenging situations, and have a clear thought-process for each action step.
Preparation Tips
- Familiarize yourself with the PEI format: Understanding the structure and format of the PEI before the interview will help you feel more confident and better prepared.
- Prepare your stories: The PEI focuses on storytelling, so it’s essential to have a few well-structured stories that demonstrate your problem-solving skills, leadership potential, and cultural fit within McKinsey. Practice telling these stories before the interview to ensure they are polished and ready to go.
- Be specific: When answering questions, provide specific examples and quantifiable data to support your claims. This approach will help the interviewer understand the impact of your actions and the level of responsibility you held in the situation.
- Show, don’t tell: Instead of just claiming to have a particular skill or trait, provide concrete examples of how you demonstrated it in the past.
- Practice active listening: The PEI also serves as an opportunity to learn more about McKinsey and the interviewer. It’s essential to practice active listening and ask insightful questions to show your interest in the firm and the interviewer’s experiences.
In conclusion, the McKinsey Personal Experience Interview is a critical part of the recruitment process and requires comprehensive preparation to increase your chances of success. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this quick beginners guide, you will be well-prepared for the start of your PEI prep.
Good luck!
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