McKinsey Makes AI Tool ‘Lilli’ Mandatory in Job Interviews, Non-Users Risk Rejection
Key Takeaways
- McKinsey now requires candidates to use its AI tool ‘Lilli’ during job interviews.
- Failure or refusal to use the tool can lead to disqualification from the hiring process.
- The move aims to assess candidates’ proficiency in leveraging AI for problem-solving.
- This signals a major shift in hiring priorities towards tech adaptability in consulting.
Global consulting giant McKinsey & Company has introduced a mandatory new step in its hiring process: candidates must interact with an artificial intelligence tool called ‘Lilli’ during their interviews. According to a report, failure to use this AI could result in candidates not being hired.
What is Lilli and How is it Used?
Lilli is an AI tool designed to help consultants access McKinsey’s extensive knowledge base, which includes case studies, expert insights, and data analysis tools. During interviews, candidates are required to use Lilli to demonstrate their ability to leverage AI for decision-making and problem-solving—a core skill in modern consulting.
A New Hiring Precedent
Sources indicate that candidates who are unable or unwilling to use Lilli may be disqualified. This move underscores the increasing importance of AI skills in the job market, especially in data-driven fields like consulting. McKinsey’s adoption reflects a broader corporate trend of integrating technology into recruitment, but making an AI tool mandatory for interviews is a novel development that could set a precedent for other firms.
Implications for Job Seekers
The mandatory use of Lilli highlights how rapidly AI is transforming workplace practices. For job seekers, it signals that adaptability and tech-savviness are no longer optional but critical for remaining competitive. While some may see this as a new barrier, it also presents an opportunity for candidates to showcase their readiness for a tech-integrated work environment.
McKinsey’s policy marks a significant shift in how core skills are assessed, placing AI proficiency at the forefront of the modern hiring landscape.



