McKinsey.org Forward

Ready to advance your career? Take a step Forward.
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McKinsey.org Forward is a free ten-week learning program designed to equip individuals at different stages of their careers – from career starters to job changers – with practical skills to succeed in the future of work.

What you can expect

Whether you are in the early days of your career or navigating a new opportunity, the Forward learning journey will help you develop new ways of thinking, expand your skill set and grow your confidence.

At the end of the program, you will receive a McKinsey.org Forward digital badge and join an exclusive global network of life-long learners.

How the program works

A flexible learning journey designed to fit your schedule:

  • Digital courses, virtual-learning events, assignments and reflection exercises.
  • Around 2 hours per week over 10 weeks
  • Primarily delivered in English, with digital content translated into Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, French, and Arabic, with subtitles and simultaneous translation for virtual events.
Skills you’ll build

Develop workplace skills to help you:

  • Solve problems with structured thinking
  • Communicate clearly and drive action
  • Use digital and AI tools responsibly and effectively
  • Adapt to change and work well with others
  • Build strong relationships and support your well-being
Who can apply

To join Forward, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Currently living in a country where Forward is available
  • Are working or have prior work experience (including internships or apprenticeships), or are preparing to start work sometime in the next 12 months
  • Have less than 5 years of total work experience*
  • Have completed at least a high school education or equivalent
*Applicants with more than 5 years of experience may still be eligible if they work in the nonprofit or NGO sector, in non-corporate settings, or in non-managerial roles.

Available regions and countries

Mark your growth

McKinsey.org Forward badge

Earn the McKinsey.org Forward badge

Participants who complete the Core Skills level will earn a personalized digital badge, which is shareable across social media and other digital channels.

What Forward alumni are saying

Monica

Forward was like having a personal coach for my career, helping me recognize and change behaviors that were limiting my growth. When I faced a challenging role transition, the program gave me the tools and confidence to embrace the opportunity, overcome obstacles, and thrive in my new role.

Monica, Forward Alumna
Italy
John

My boss recognized and celebrated the positive change in me, even before I noticed it myself! The Forward program made me more intentional with my communication across my company, which led to better results — more sales and higher customer satisfaction.

John, Forward Alumnus
The United States
Ranya

Forward transformed the way I solve problems. In high-pressure situations, I now approach challenges with greater clarity and structure, taking the time to understand the root issue before acting. This shift in mindset has helped me make better decisions and navigate complex situations with greater confidence.

Ranya, Forward Alumna
Pakistan
Meet Portia
Portia is an inspiring young professional from South Africa. During her search for purpose and new career possibilities, she found Forward at McKinsey.org , which added structure to her transformation and gave her a tool kit of practical skills for any career path. A gifted speaker, Portia has volunteered her time to host several welcome webinars for new Forward learners.
Meet Niklas
Niklas, who’s from Germany and in the early stages of building his career, was looking for ways to develop resilience and tools to manage the challenges that come with fast-paced, high-pressure environments. Through the McKinsey.org Forward program, he gained practical tools to reframe his thoughts and approach problems with more structure and focus. Niklas is now better equipped to navigate change with confidence and intention.

FAQS

Take a step Forward to advance your career

Applications are open until October 5
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