MBB Final Interview Tips

Question

Hi everyone! I just got invited to a second partner interview (final round) with one of the MBB for an entry-level generalist role.

My first partner interview was almost a month ago, and I wasn’t entirely happy with how it went — it felt okay but not outstanding even though I received very good feedback from R1. Now that I’ve been scheduled for another one, I’m wondering:

• What does this 2nd partner interview usually focus on (case, fit, or more of a discussion)?

• Has anyone here landed an offer even if their first partner interview wasn’t perfect?

• Any tips on how to make the best impression at this stage, besides focusing on the improvement area mentioned in my prior feedback?

Answer 1

To start with - YES, the final round doesn't have to be perfect for you to get an offer. I made mistakes in my final round and still got an offer. And I say this happens with multiple candidates.

Mistakes are a normal part of the game, and even when some candidates think their performance was flawless (which few claim anyway), typically it's because they are not aware of the things they did poorly.

What matters more is how you recover from these mistakes and lead the process forward. Just as you would do with clients.

Here are some tips for your second round:
Work on the feedback provided in the previous rounds. Most firms communicate the feedback from the previous rounds to the final interviewer. It's important then to show the final interviewer that you have a growth mindset and are reactive to feedback. This matters immensely. Make sure you are clear on your development areas and that you get the right support to polish them before the final interview.
Expect less structure. Senior interviewers already have the confidence that you are a decent candidate, your skills having been already vetted by their younger colleagues. They are rather more interested in your as a person and your way of thinking. So they might present you with an unusual case, or one that is created on the spot or no case altogether. Expect anything.
Focus on excellent communication. Senior interviewers care a lot about how clearly you communicate and how you manage to forge a connection with the interviewer. It's important to be top-down and concise as much as possible with your answers, while allowing the conversation to flow in a natural way.
Put yourself in their shoes. The one question senior interviewers are asking themselves throughout the interview is what will happen when they'll put you in front of a client they've groomed for years? Make sure that even based on this first impression you seem somebody who can be trusted and who can work with any client regardless of how difficult they might be.

And good luck!
Cristian

Answer 2

hey there :)

Usually the second partner round is more conversational and focused on confirming fit and communication rather than testing pure case skills. The partner often wants to see if you’d be credible in front of clients and if you’d be a good cultural match. The case, if there is one, is typically shorter and more conceptual – they might test your judgment, structure, and ability to simplify complex problems, not detailed math.

And yes, many people get offers even if the first partner interview wasn’t perfect. A “second partner” doesn’t necessarily mean you were borderline; it’s often just a standard final confirmation.

To stand out, show confidence, warmth, and strong business intuition. Think aloud clearly, structure your thoughts but stay conversational, and engage them in a real discussion rather than an interview. Also, prepare a few thoughtful questions that show genuine curiosity about the firm or their recent projects.

If you’d like, I can help you draft a short prep plan or sample questions for the end of the interview.

best, Alessa :)