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The McKinsey Way by Ethan M. Rasiel Review

Title: The McKinsey Way

Author: Ethan M. Rasiel

First published February 1, 1999

208 pages, Hardcover

ISBN: 9780070534483 (ISBN10: 0070534489)

Rating: 3.61

Overview

In the world of business consulting, McKinsey & Company is a name that stands out. Its alumni include some of the most successful and respected business leaders, and its methods for problem-solving and management are legendary.

In his book, The McKinsey Way, former McKinsey associate Ethan Rasiel pulls back the curtain on this secretive firm to reveal its strategies and practices. With witty anecdotes and real-life examples, Rasiel shows how McKinsey-ites approach everything from recruiting and team-building to brainstorming and communication.

He provides a toolkit of problem-solving techniques that can be applied in any organization, and shares powerful presentation methods that are rarely seen outside of McKinsey. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or just starting out, The McKinsey Way is a must-read for anyone who wants to become a better strategic player in the business world.

About the Author

Ethan M. Rasiel worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Co. in New York.

During his time there, he advised clients in finance, telecommunications, computing, and consumer goods industries. Before joining McKinsey, Rasiel worked as an equity fund manager at Mercury Asset Management in London and also worked in investment banking.

He holds an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Editoral Review

“The McKinsey Way” by Ethan M. Rasiel offers a unique insight into the world of management consulting through the eyes of a former McKinsey consultant.

First published in 1999, the book has enjoyed sustained popularity and has become a classic in its genre.

Rasiel provides an overview of the consulting industry and offers a step-by-step guide on how to approach various consulting projects. He aims to provide readers with an understanding of how McKinsey works and what makes it so successful.

Rasiel’s writing style is clear and concise, making the book accessible to readers with no prior knowledge of the consulting industry.

The book is organized into ten chapters, each covering a different aspect of consulting. Rasiel walks readers through the process of problem-solving, developing recommendations, and presenting findings to clients.

He also discusses the importance of teamwork, project management, and communication skills in the consulting industry.

One of the strengths of “The McKinsey Way” is its practicality. Rasiel provides numerous examples of how consulting projects are executed and offers tips on how to succeed in the industry.

The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the client’s needs and tailoring recommendations to meet those needs.

However, the book is not without its limitations. Rasiel’s focus on McKinsey’s approach to consulting may make it less relevant for readers interested in other consulting firms.

Additionally, the book’s emphasis on the importance of quantitative analysis may not resonate with readers who prefer a more qualitative approach.

Despite its limitations, “The McKinsey Way” is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the consulting industry. Rasiel’s insights into McKinsey’s approach to problem-solving are valuable, and his tips on project management and communication skills are useful for anyone working in a team-based environment.

Overall, “The McKinsey Way” is a well-written and practical guide to the consulting industry. Its clear and concise style, combined with Rasiel’s firsthand experience at McKinsey, make it a must-read for anyone considering a career in consulting.

I give this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

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