Success Story:

I’m writing to thank you for helping me get an offer from McKinsey, the only firm I had the fortune to interview with. I am an experienced hire. I have spent the last 9 years in the military (after graduating from West Point). I learned about a unique opportunity to interview with McKinsey only 2 weeks before my first interview. I didn’t even know what a case interview was before this!

McKinsey offers an excellent set of preparation materials, but I found you through my own research. Your book, videos, and frameworks were all very helpful. However, I attribute my particular success, especially in the final round interviews, to Chapter 25 in your book. Confidence is everything.

First, I prepared as much as absolutely possible in the few weeks I had. Then, once I had reason to be confident and felt I could be competitive (especially when I made it to the final round), I started to feel EVERYTHING was at stake. So, I did the drill you suggested, thinking of several reasons NOT getting the offer would not be the end of the world, about 30 minutes before my interviews. That, I feel, was the game changer. It allowed me to be myself and really impress the partners who interviewed me.

Thank you for being so dedicated to helping us. I look forward to watching your interview with Roger Love so I can continue to project confidence in front of my clients!

My Reply:

First off, I want to offer you a big time, congratulations! Nice job on landing the offer — especially after 9 years in the military. There aren’t a lot of veterans at McK, so it’s great you got in — you’ll have a lot to contribute.

I’m glad the confidence tip I suggested in Case Interview Secrets, Chapter 25 was helpful for you. McK is definitely a great opportunity, but it is by no means the ONLY great opportunity in the world. I’m glad “the firm” could see what you had to offer when you were at your best (and most relaxed).

Once again, congratulations!