Haikus on McKinsey Company: Seeing the World Through the Lens of a Consultant
Haikus on McKinsey Company: Seeing the World Through the Lens of a Consultant
Delving into the world of McKinsey Company, one often finds themselves surrounded by the testimonials and experiences of consultants. In this article, we explore the world of McKinsey through the poetic lens of a haiku——a traditional form of Japanese poetry that conveys deep emotions and ideas in just a few carefully chosen words. Let's journey through the daily life and essence of consulting at McKinsey, as captured in the words of a consulting consultant.
Haikus Reflecting McKinsey
Riding on a plane,
Client site is near at hand,
I dream about home.
Such haikus encapsulate the shared experience of consulting at McKinsey. They illuminate the desire for work-life balance, the travel that comes with the territory, and the time away from home. This poem offers a glimpse into the life of a consultant, balancing professional responsibility with personal longing.
Crowded meeting room,
Hot with laptops and bodies,
When is the deck due?
Here, we see the pressures and demands of the consulting world. The room is filled with the buzz of activity – the laptops provide a contrast to the human presence. And the question of when the deck (a presentation used to communicate analysis and findings) is due reflects the relentless pace of work at McKinsey. Consultants are often engaged in creating high-quality, timely deliverables.
T40 laptop smokes,
Gigabyte model freezes,
I rage in silence.
Technology isn't always reliable. In the heat of a project, when technology fails, consultants must cope with frustration and even anger. Despite the intense emotions, maintaining poise and continuing work in silence is a hallmark of the consulting profession.
Team dinner tonight,
Eat and drink with temp fam’ly,
No one sleeps early.
Teamwork is a crucial part of consulting at McKinsey. Dinners and drinks often serve as necessary team-building activities or off-duty moments. Despite the fun, consulting is a demanding profession, and early mornings and late nights are the norm. This haiku captures the camaraderie and dedication of consultants working together late into the night.
Client in team room,
Extension on new savings,
FUTURE job is sold.
Consultants at McKinsey work closely with clients to find solutions to complex business problems. The push for growth and innovation is relentless, as every project involves finding new ways to save costs and drive growth. The final line suggests that the future is already set; McKinsey ensures their consultants have an eye on future possibilities and opportunities.
New client director,
Chat about way to airport,
Still friends ten years on.
Professional relationships at McKinsey flourish, and despite the intense workload and high pressures of the job, consultants often maintain long-term friendships. This haiku reveals the deep bonds formed among colleagues, and the lasting friendships that can develop even in the demanding work environment of consulting.