McKinsey is introducing an artificial intelligence (AI) avatar that plays the role of a client in some entry-level consulting interviews, as the elite advisory firm experiments with new ways to assess how candidates handle real-world business problems.
The Wall Street Journal reports the pilot, being rolled out this autumn for some undergraduate applicants in North America, involves a 10-minute conversation with a computer-generated client while human interviewers observe how candidates respond to questions and changing circumstances.
The avatar is designed to simulate the types of conversations consultants encounter when advising businesses and public-sector organisations, including clients who challenge recommendations or demand further explanations.
In one scenario, candidates may face a mayor seeking advice on a major development project, requiring them to explain their reasoning, respond to questions and adapt their recommendations as the discussion unfolds.
The exercise is intended to test candidates’ ability to think on their feet, communicate clearly and engage with clients, rather than simply deliver rehearsed answers to conventional interview questions.
Human interviewers remain responsible for evaluating candidates, with the AI avatar acting as a simulated client rather than independently scoring applicants.
The move reflects a broader shift in recruitment as employers explore ways to assess candidates through simulations of workplace situations, rather than relying exclusively on traditional interviews and academic credentials.
McKinsey already uses a gamified assessment called Solve to test problem-solving skills among applicants for many consulting positions, while its recruitment process can include personal experience interviews and business case exercises.
The firm has also developed AI tools to help candidates prepare for interviews, reflecting the growing role of artificial intelligence in its own work and the skills it expects future consultants to develop.