Is is common from BCG to offer candidates a coaching session ?

Hi Julie,

Congratulations on making it through round 1!

I agree with Pedro: BCG's recruitment processes vary depending on the region, so it might be worth checking if other candidates are also being offered coaching. This could help determine if the coaching offer is specifically targeted at you.

I've personally conducted many case coaching sessions for BCG, and these were offered to all candidates regardless of their performance. For example, participants in recruiting events were given interview slots along with mock interview coaching before the interviews. So, based on my experience, I'd assume that the offer for interview coaching isn't based on your performance.

My advice is to use the mock interview as an opportunity for additional calibration. Specifically, ask the interviewer how you performed in the areas where you struggle the most or where improvement potential was identified after round 1.

Hope this helps, and best of luck for the next round!

Best,
Gero

Hi Julie,

Ok, so, passing the 1st round is already a great sign! They wouldn't waste time on you if they didn't think you were capable.

It is most likely that they are giving a coaching session to your peers as well (likely, not guaranteed).

Of course, make sure to use this coaching session well.

If a lot of issues are identified, then get a coach on here to make sure you're maximizing your chances.

Some more reading to help: 

The Most Common Pitfalls in Case Interview Preparation
 

Dos and Don'ts in a Case Interview
 

How to Shift Your Mindset to Ace the Case
 

Candidate-Led Cases: What to Expect With Example Cases

If they are offering this specifically to you and not to other candidates, then it means that they acknowledge your structuring or analytical capabilities but at the same time feel that you are underprepared / less aware of the case interview method than expected.

I wouldn't read to much into this, though, and just make the best use of the coaching session and prepare as much as possible before and after that session.

BCG case interviews are the most difficult part of the interview process. BCG interviews consist of case interviews, behavioral or fit interviews, and a written case interview for some offices. You will need to pass every single BCG case interview in order to land a job offer.

The exact BCG interview process may vary, but the vast majority of candidates will have two rounds of interviews before they receive an offer. Every single round of interview will include a BCG case interview.

Hi,

Some offices have a tie-up with some preparation platforms, and they offer that to candidates.

I would suggest to not worry too much about it. Use the session, focus on continuing to prepare well and look forward. 

It doesn't matter what you feel the firm thinks about you now, what matters only is your performance in the next round.

All the best!

Hi Julie,

tbh, I have never heard of this in-between rounds. 

Usually, some offices offer this before the first round to make sure candidates are aware of the difficulty level and need for preparation (to avoid wasting candidates' and interviewers' time).

Still, if you progressed to the 2nd round and they offered you this, it is a good sign since they are impressed by your performance in certain areas.

Make sure to make the most of the session, and ask for specific feedback and actionable improvement advice.

Also, consider a coach to help you with this!

Cheers,

Florian

Julie, 

It's rather common. 

And it's a sign that they want you to succeed. 

So, do make the most out of it. Ask for feedback at the end and if the feedback is too vague, don't just leave it at that, but ask for examples and a detailed explanation of how you should do it alternatively. 

Good luck!

Best,
Cristian