Interview Question

Hi,

I agree with Mihir. As an interviewer, I’d expect you to be well-prepared for these standard fit questions. It’s completely fine to take a few seconds to collect your thoughts—saying something like “Let me think” works well.

That said, responses should come promptly and ideally follow a clear structure to demonstrate both preparation and communication clarity.

I coach candidates on the fit part of the interview, and I strongly encourage you not to underestimate its importance—it’s often a key differentiator.

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• First of all, and contrary to what other coaches have said, it really depends on the specific personal fit question. While you should certainly prepare answers to frequently asked personal fit questions, you may very well take some time to find an answer to less common ones. There's no point in starting to talk randomly because you're sticking to a strict time limit when a few more moments would be enough to help you gather your thoughts.
• Moreover, if you take some time, I would advise you to just do it naturally and confidently.

You can find more on this topic here: How to succeed in the final interview round.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming pre-interview assessments and/or interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

In my view, it’s ok to think for a couple of seconds but not for too long. 

Interviewers at most firms will expect you to have prepared stories to answer these kinds of questions, rather than coming up with it on the spot.

Hi there,

Yes, it's absolutely fine. 

Typically, most candidates don't take this time because one story pops immediately to mind out of the ones they prepared. But if you do take a few seconds to think nobody counts that against you. 

If you're preparing for the PEI, you might also find the following guide I've created useful:

• Video Course: Master the McKinsey PEI

Best,
Cristian

Hi there,
 

Absolutely—it's completely acceptable and often advisable to ask for a brief moment to collect your thoughts before answering a fit question.

Taking 5–10 seconds to structure your response (especially for behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you managed a conflict”) shows thoughtfulness and composure. Interviewers appreciate well-organized answers, and a short pause is far better than jumping in without a clear direction.

You can simply say something like, “That’s a great question—do you mind if I take a few seconds to think about the best example?”

It’s a sign of professionalism, not hesitation—so feel free to use that space when needed.

Happy to help with your interview prep if you'd like—feel free to reach out!

Best,

Evelina

Hey, 

It is fine to take some time to think, especially for behavioral questions, those that start with "Tell me about a time when you..." 

Use the time not only to come up with an idea but to structure your response as much as possible. 

Quick tips: 

1. Avoid staying silent for too long 

2. Ask for time in a polite and friendly way. You can say "Can you allow me a few moments to think of a relevant example?" 

I hope this helps! Good luck and please reach out if you want me to review your sample answers! 

Hello there,

If it’s a couple of seconds, sure - ideally you would have the stories on the tip of your tongue as a sign of preparedness.

If you would like to work with a coach to make sure those stories stand out and are MBB ready, feel free to reach out.

Best,

Mari

Hey there :)

Yes, it’s totally acceptable to ask for a brief moment to think before answering a fit question. It shows you're thoughtful and want to give a structured response. Just say something like, “Let me take a second to think of the best example.” That’s completely normal and won’t hurt your impression at all!

Let me know if you want help structuring your answer too!

Best,
Alessa :)