Interviews for MBB/Big4/T2 (US) - Virtual or In-person?

Question

Hi all,

I'm planning on recruiting for consulting firms in the Northeast US beginning late October of this year as an experienced hire, and I was curious as to what the interview format has been like for current/recent applicants.

I've been hearing that firms are conducting only 1st round interviews via Zoom, whereas I've heard conflicting info from others that both 1st and 2nd rounds are being conducting virtually. One friend currently working in a Big4 firm even said they've started allowing in-person 2nd/final round interviews for vaccinated candidates for their local office. Do any PrepLounge users have info that may help shed light on this issue (I know things are still quite dynamic right now with vaccination mandates and whatnot)? Just curious for personal planning purposes. Thanks!

Answer 1

Hello,

In my experience working with candidates applying to MBB this cycle, it seems like a lot of offices are conducting both 1st and 2nd round virtually. However, you are totally right in pointing out that things are evolving quite dynamically right now, so it may well be subject to change. I would recommend confirming with your recruiter/HR what the plan is for each specific office and company you are applying to.

Answer 2

Hi there,

This is indeed an interesting question which is probably relevant for quite a lot of users, so I am happy to provide my perspective on it:

For MBB, from the experiences of coachees of mine, both first and second round interviews were conducted virtually so far. Given the COVID-19 situation is constantly changing, they might loosen restrictions soon for a blended/ in-person interviewing process.
For Tier 2 and Big 4, again from the experiences of coachees of mine, interviewing processes were very much company-specific as to whether they were completely/ partially virtual.
To be on the safe side and plan accordingly, I would advise you to contact the recruiter of the respective company and ask about the format.

In case you want a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for the two formats of interviews, please feel free to contact me directly.

I hope this helps,

Hagen

Answer 3

Hey there,

All of my US candidates (20-30 people) over the last 3 months had their McKinsey interviews still via Zoom, first and second round.

I have no insights on the other firms.

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 4

For the candidates I have coached in past 6 months:

MBB: All have been virtual
Deloitte: Some US ones have been in-person, UK and other geos have been virtual
Other consulting firms: All virtual

Answer 5

AFAIK - most firms and offices are still in full virtual mode still.

However, selectively having in-person interviews is opening up. Some of my coachees have experience this very recently.

That said - you will only know for real when its your turn.

Note: If you feel uncomfortable in having an in-person interview due to COVID-related reasons - then feel absolutely free to indicate that to HR. They should be able to accommodate your request.

Answer 6

Hi there,

All of my candidates have had virtual interviews.

Of course, things change quick in the world of covid, so it would not be out of the realm of possibilities that a second (or even both) interview will be in person in the near future.

Of course, this will depend on the company, office, and exact time period.

You'll just need to be flexible and take their guidance here when they give you your interview dates/info (get used to it…as a consultant you won't have much notice for most things!).

Answer 7

Hi!

The majority of my candidates in that region are still doing interviews remotely.

Best,

Anto