In-person final round with MBB. Anything to be prepared for (vs online final-round)?

Hi there,

There's really no difference in terms of interview questions, flow, and expectations between online and in-person MBB interviews.

The major difference is the fact that you have a better opportunity to project executive presence and build rapport in person than virtually. On the flip side, some candidates have reported feeling some additional pressure in person but from my perspective, if you're well-prepared, you'll be able to surmount that potential psychological block.

All the best,

Fathu

Hey! For your in-person MBB final round, there’s no need to bring a copy of your CV. The interviewers will already have it, and the focus will be on your ability to engage effectively. The key difference in an in-person setting is the importance of body language.

A few tips from my side that I liked at candidates: 

• Maintain steady eye contact to show confidence and attentiveness.
• Keep a relaxed posture; sit up straight but remain comfortable.
• Use hand gestures naturally to emphasize your points, but avoid overdoing it.
• Smile and nod occasionally to demonstrate active listening and engagement.

These subtle non-verbal cues can make a big difference in how you're perceived during the interview!

Good luck!

Alessa :)

Great answers above; a few other thoughts:

• Anything "special" about these interviews will be more to do with the fact that they're final round with (Senior) Partners than the fact that they're in person
• Those cases can be a bit less typical/structured and more conversational - my advice there is to control the pace (e.g., selectively and tactfully use pen & paper to slow down / structure your thoughts rather than react immediately to key questions and say something you might regret)
• It's a great opportunity to show fit - do your best to be yourself, show a smile, sense of humour, roll with it etc.
• Arrive plenty early and take a mindful stroll around the block (a few times :)
• Think as you walk in - I'm not nervous, I'm excited!

Hi there,

First of all, congratulations! Having worked with many candidates in Europe, I believe in-person interviews offer a great opportunity to showcase your strengths. To understand the differences between in-person and online interviews, it’s important to look at the key parameters you’re typically judged on:

1. Problem-solving skills
2. Structured thinking
3. Communication and presence
4. Bringing insights and out-of-the-box thinking

While there are more factors, these four are the main ones.

Now, let’s break down how these might differ in an online vs. in-person setting:

1. Problem-solving: This largely stays the same, though the level of nervousness might vary. Some people are more comfortable online, while others perform better in person.
2. Structured thinking: While your thinking process doesn’t change, the interviewer can see your notes in person, so it’s important to keep them neat and organized.
3. Communication and presence: In-person interviews give you a better chance to build rapport and engage the interviewer. Remember to smile, think aloud if you’re stuck, and have a clear conversation without distractions (e.g., putting down your pen during discussions).
4. Bringing insights and creativity: This should stay consistent, though an in-person setting might allow for real-time insights, especially if the case relates to your immediate surroundings (e.g., if the case is about a café and you’re sitting in one).

Hope this helps! Best of luck with the interview!

Congratulations on making it to the final round!

There are already some fantastic insights shared, so I’d like to add a few thoughts to enhance your preparation.

1. Feedback Reflection: Consider the feedback you received in your previous rounds. Were there specific tips for sharpening your case interview skills? Interviewers often focus on areas for improvement identified earlier, so be prepared to demonstrate how you’ve addressed those.

2. Conversational Style: Partners usually conduct interviews in a more conversational manner. Practice active listening and be ready to adapt to any unexpected twists in the case.

3. Partnership Mindset: Remember that interviewers are assessing whether they would want you on their team. Maintain professionalism, composure, and articulate your thoughts clearly.

I hope these suggestions prove helpful! Wishing you all the best in your interview!

Best,  
Laura

Hi there,

That's great!

Having interviews in person is much more natural and a better opportunity to connect with your interviewers. 

• No need to bring your CV or anything else like paper or pens as this will be provided by the interviewers and taken away from you after each interview
• Make sure to dress the part
• Take a deep breath before entering each interview as it can be a bit more intimidating to have the interviews in an unfamiliar place

All the best,

Florian