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AI Interviews: McKinsey Tests Virtual Clients for Hiring
15 Oct
Summary
- McKinsey is piloting AI simulations for entry-level interviews.
- The AI mimics 80% of typical client scenarios for consultants.
- Human assessors will evaluate candidates during the AI conversations.

McKinsey & Company is introducing an AI-driven element into its entry-level hiring process. Candidates interviewing for business analyst positions in some North American offices this fall will engage in a 10-minute conversation with an AI simulation designed to mimic client interactions. This tool is intended to mirror approximately 80% of the scenarios consultants encounter daily, focusing on realistic professional situations rather than unusual client behavior.
Crucially, the AI simulation will not be responsible for scoring candidates. Instead, human interviewers will remain present throughout the conversation to evaluate how candidates navigate the simulated environment and interact with the AI. This pilot is expected to involve hundreds of undergraduate applicants as McKinsey explores the use of artificial intelligence in talent acquisition.