Like any fast-track career, working at McKinsey can be intense. Our clients rely on us during their most challenging times, and we go to great lengths to exceed their expectations. But meeting our commitments doesn’t mean putting our personal needs and interests on hold.
Finding the right balance
We all face the challenge of making time for our personal and professional priorities. At McKinsey, we encourage each other to find the right balance. Our culture rewards intelligence and efficiency, not the amount of time someone puts into a project. Team leaders are evaluated, in part, on the quality of life they foster.
Flexibility and choices
You might choose to work fewer days per week or fewer weeks per year, take a leave of absence, or switch to another role temporarily or permanently. As a consultant, you can explore these options through McKinsey’s internal Flexibility website or through one-on-one guidance at our Flexibility Center.
To date, more than 40 partners have been elected while on part-time programs. Although some tradeoffs may be necessary, choosing a flexible or reduced program doesn’t mean your career will suffer at McKinsey. All of our offices worldwide support career flexibility.
Flexibility programs
Because everyone's needs are unique, McKinsey's flexibility managers and other experts will help you develop a program that addresses your individual needs. For some, that may mean a more flexible schedule, including reduced hours. For others, it can mean setting time aside (or even away) to devote to a personal pursuit, working closer to home, taking a break between assignments, or changing a career track.
Working parents at McKinsey
We have a long history of supporting the needs of working parents. In fact, Working Mother has ranked us as one of the 100 companies best companies for working mothers, and as one of the 10 best companies for paternity leave.
Working Mother specifically recognized us for:
- Our extensive leave benefits for parents (biological and adoptive)
- The coaching and support provided by a dedicated Mother's Network manager
- Our "phase back" option that allows consultants to ease back into work after maternity leaves