March 2013
Hi readers!
I thought I should post a quick update, as I recently finished a newly developed one-week training program for associates called LEAD 1. It's the first significant training we attend post-BCR (Basic Consulting Readiness), which we do as soon as we join McKinsey.
LEAD 1 is not a typical corporate training session. There were very few lectures or plenary sessions, but rather lots and lots of role plays. There was little time dedicated to hard skills and knowledge-building, and a strong focus on people skills and self-understanding. To give you a flavor for the topics, my four favorite sessions were:
• Empathy—How to put your own priorities aside and show true empathy for others
• In the Grip—How our personality characteristics change under stress
• Courageous Conversations—How to broach difficult subjects
• Energizers—How to maintain your energy levels throughout the day
Hogan's Beach
The program wasn't all work, of course. It kicked off with some rowing lessons and an amateur rowing competition. Then, later in the week, the group found its way to Hogan's Beach, in a bar owned by Hulk Hogan. (No joke.)
We were divided into groups of five for the week, and by the end of it, my team was practically inseparable. I'm confident I'll keep in touch with my teammates and a few others from LEAD 1 throughout my McKinsey career, and hopefully beyond! As we did the wrap-up at the end of the week, almost everyone in our group of 30 commented on the bonds formed in the program. Rarely do we get a chance to get to know so many amazing people, who are at the same point in their careers, and facing the same opportunities and challenges. It was a truly wonderful experience.
So, I very much look forward to LEAD 2, which should be in about 6 months!
Till next time,
Kimberly