Interview break protocol

I'm preparing to McK coming next week
Recent activity on May 09, 2018
3 Answers
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Anonymous A asked on May 09, 2018

Hey

ive got a one hour break between McKinsey interviews- any tips?

thanks

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Francesco
Expert
Content Creator
replied on May 09, 2018
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Anonymous,

the following worked well for me during breakes:

  • Change environment. This alone will bring a major change internally. Going for a walk, rest in a nearby restaurant or bar are all good options.
  • Eat right amount of calories. Be sure you have full energy before the following interview. As a back up, keep some chocolates in case you feel low energy when back to the company office.
  • Read something unrelated to the interview. Motivational books, news, fiction. Whatever you can use to relax. If you feel too tired to read, you can watch a video/movie.
  • Listen to music that recharges you. Soundtracks should work well for that.
  • Eliminate any second thoughts on the previous cases. Whatever was your previous performance, convince yourself you have been successful. If you don't feel that, a good strategy is to keep a positive body language – smiling is a must – your mind will then follow your body language. This will project the right positive attitude in your next interview.

I would avoid any last-minute preparation at that stage since it would likely just bring stress.

Best,

Francesco

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Sidi
Expert
replied on May 09, 2018
McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers

Hi!

My recommendation for the break: take some time for a coffee, going for a walk, trying to mentally relax. By the time of the break, there is nothing you can (and should) do anymore - you will either advance to final round (in that case just continue what you were doing), or you will get some feedback on why it did not work out.

Cheers, Sidi

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Vlad
Expert
replied on May 09, 2018
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

Several things:

  1. Take a lunch with long-lasting carbs (Oats, quinoa, etc)
  2. Meditate (Headspace app can help you)
  3. Listen to the music
  4. No sleeping
  5. Brush up the FIT stories

Best!

Best!

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Francesco gave the best answer

Francesco

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