What an Associate at McKinsey & Company Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Consulting Industry
Jacqueline advises aspiring consultants to establish and communicate personal boundaries, emphasizing the importance of "knowing your own personal boundaries" while navigating the demanding industry. Further, the Associate suggests leveraging the firm's resources and opportunities for personal and professional growth by asking "what can McKinsey do for me?".
Work-Life Balance, Self-Care, Networking, Career Development, Mentorship
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jacqueline Pageau
Associate
Mckinsey & Company
Queen's University
UCLA Anderson
Consulting & Related Professional Services, Energy & Utilities
Consulting
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. There's always more to be done, so it's crucial to know your personal boundaries and communicate them to maintain work-life balance and achieve personal goals.
2. Firms like McKinsey offer many resources and opportunities; don't just give your all to work, but actively seek how the firm can help you grow professionally, network effectively, and utilize provided benefits.
3. Prioritize self-care and effective communication of your boundaries to avoid burnout and maintain a fulfilling work experience. Actively seek ways the firm can support your growth and utilize its resources to enhance your career development.
Transcript
Q9: What did you wish you knew before entering the industry?
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before entering the industry? I think it's less about what I've learned about the role and more about what I wish someone had told me before stepping into it. I wish I had been more prepared for what I needed to be ready to do.
There are two things I'd highlight. First, this is an industry where there's always more to be done. Leaders will always encourage your continued growth and advancements. This makes it really important that you know your own personal boundaries and can communicate them.
This applies whether you're striving for work-life balance or pursuing other personal goals. It's crucial to communicate those boundaries upfront and know where to draw the line between doing a great job at work and taking care of yourself and your personal commitments.
Second, take advantage of your time at a company like this. These firms have so much to offer their employees. In these types of roles, you want to do your best and give it a hundred percent, but realize the firm can also do a lot for you.
This could involve breaking into a new industry, making strong connections with amazing people, or taking advantage of the great benefits a firm like this offers. Ask yourself: "I'm giving a lot to this company and I care about my work output, but what can the firm do for me?" Figuring this out will lead to a lot of success.
Advizer Personal Links
n/a