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Interview Question: Who is your role model?

Who is your role model?
New answer on Nov 27, 2020
6 Answers
108.1 k Views
Anonymous A asked on Sep 08, 2017

When asked who is your role model in an interview, whats the best way to answer if you have never thought of a role model? How does it look like to say that a family member is?

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Moji
Skilled
updated an answer on Sep 08, 2017
Actively preparing for my first round McKinsey interviews.

I haven't been interviewed yet but I feel that what an interviewer might be looking for in an answer would be an idea of what your values, beliefs and aspirations are as a person. Irrespective of who (family or not) a person is, the bottom line is how has their embodiment as a role model to YOU positioned you in terms of what the consulting firm is looking for.

I would say my dad for example, is one of my role models. He inspired me to never give up, made me believe I could do anything I set my mind to and always made me see that I could also be the best. He never believed in the words "it's impossible" or "I can't" and hated hearing "but" as the beginning of a sentence after he had challenged me to give something my best. As a result, I am more assertive, competitive and eager to learn and achieve as much as I can in life. I say "yes" to opportunities and always try to make an attempt at something rather that shying away and saying I cannot do it.

in summary, this is what I feel an interviewer MAY want to see/hear a candidate say. A role model is someone you want to be like. So the question I would have as an interviewer is what are my interviewees values and aspirations as a person and how will this make for a successful and independent thinking consultant in our firm?

Remember: I have not been interviewed. These are just my opinions :) Hope it helps!

(edited)

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Aisha on Sep 09, 2017

Thank you very much,

Anonymous replied on Sep 10, 2017

Hi,

I believe really every answer can make sense. One thing is extremely important:

  • Always be sincere, be honest and say what you feel / think. No use in making up a nice story. They will have to take you as you are!
    • Spending >60hrs/week together will only work when you can be yourself

That being sad, no harm done by reflecting upfront on these kind of questions, just to make sure stress does not take over during the interview!

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Gaurav
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Nov 27, 2020
#1 MBB Coach(Placed 750+ in MBBs & 1250+ in Tier2)| The Only 360 coach(Ex-McKinsey + Certified Coach + Active recruiter)

Hi there,

First of all, you are thinking of a role model at the moment. This could be any person that inspires you most, that gives yoy motivation, energy, faith in your power, in yourself. You need to be honest with the interviewers, explain so that it shows your personality from a good side.

Do you still need any help?

GB

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Clara
Expert
Content Creator
replied on May 28, 2020
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

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Anonymous replied on Sep 09, 2017

Hello Anonymous A,

I agree with Moji, in the "role model" question, the interviewer wants to have a sense of your personality which includes, as Moji mentioned, values, principles, characters, emotions, etc.

You can pick up a family member, a former boss, public figure, etc. What it is important to convey is how that person impacted your life and how it helped you to become a better person or professional.

Regards,

Hugo

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Aisha on Sep 09, 2017

Thank you very much,,,

Anonymous replied on May 31, 2020

Dear A,

When you answer this question, just be authentic, be yourself and be structured. A family member could be also your role model. It's important to emphasize and structure your answer. Explain why is this person, what are the qualities he/she has as your role model, and how do copy them and basically give an example. This would be the best and sincere way on how to answer it in a structured and convincing manner.

Good luck,

André

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1