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How to answer hypothetical behavioral questions?

behavioral interviews Final Round
Most recent answer on Jan 15, 2024
Anonymous gave the best answer on Jan 17, 2024
The traditional approach is the STAR method - situation, task, action and result.  Personally, I think this approach is a bit rigid and the conversation just won't sound very spontaneous. I normally like to prepare a fe ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
326
Views
74
Total Upvotes
on Jan 15, 2024 on Jan 15, 2024
Last Activity

Share an example of when you had to plan for how the consequences of a decision would affect your team.

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Dec 06, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Pedro
Expert
30% off in April 2024 | Bain | EY-Parthenon | Roland Berger | Market Sizing | DARDEN MBA
Pedro
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
30% off in April 2024 | Bain | EY-Parthenon | Roland Berger | Market Sizing | DARDEN MBA
I understand why you ask this question here. It is an odd question to ask in an interview, unless you have a bit of seniority. It would be quite long to provide a personal answer for this (and not sure I would feel comf ... (read entire answer)
9
Answers
245
Views
78
Total Upvotes
on Dec 06, 2023 on Dec 06, 2023
Last Activity

" Talk about yourself " Question

BCG behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Dec 05, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
ALEXANDRE
Expert
FREE INTRO I exMcKinsey EM I exKearney consultant I High Success Rate I Official Coach for HEC (160 coachees in 2022/23)
ALEXANDRE
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
FREE INTRO I exMcKinsey EM I exKearney consultant I High Success Rate I Official Coach for HEC (160 coachees in 2022/23)
Hi, Here is another option : Who you are : Name Background What I’m currently doing Highlight reals 2 experiences that makes you special for the role Use quantifiable achievements at least tangible. Start with most rece ... (read entire answer)
11
Answers
390
Views
114
Total Upvotes
on Dec 05, 2023 on Dec 05, 2023
Last Activity

Behavioral Questions

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Dec 01, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 28, 2023) is from:
Florian
Expert
Strategy consultant focused on energy & industry, I've led dozens of recruitment interviews at BCG
Florian
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 28, 2023
Strategy consultant focused on energy & industry, I've led dozens of recruitment interviews at BCG
As the previous answers have highlighted, there will be no major difference between firms interviews. So the key here is to showcase the best version of yourself, so you can be ready for any question incoming Showcase t ... (read entire answer)
8
Answers
363
Views
80
Total Upvotes
on Dec 01, 2023 on Dec 01, 2023
Last Activity

Demonstrating effective leadership in a difficult situation is a great way to earn credibility. Describe a time when you did this.

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Nov 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 30, 2023) is from:
Hagen
Expert
#1 Bain coach | >95% success rate | interviewer for 8+ years | mentor and coach for 7+ years
Hagen
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 30, 2023
#1 Bain coach | >95% success rate | interviewer for 8+ years | mentor and coach for 7+ years
Hi Nancy, I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation: First of all, it would be great to first hear your proposal on how to answer this behavioral question and then provide feedback to it. This approach ens ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
321
Views
60
Total Upvotes
on Nov 30, 2023 on Nov 30, 2023
Last Activity

Bain Behavioural interview - Hypothetical

Bain & Company behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Nov 12, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 10, 2023) is from:
Frederic
Expert
ex Jr. Partner McKinsey |Senior Interviewer| Real Feedback & Free Homework between sessions|Harvard Coach|10+ Experience
Frederic
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 10, 2023
ex Jr. Partner McKinsey |Senior Interviewer| Real Feedback & Free Homework between sessions|Harvard Coach|10+ Experience
Hey Eduardo, good question! I'd not clarify the question instead highlight YOUR assumtions, like this for instance: "Assuming the work is urgent and cannot be postponed..." "I would first assess my own workload and comm ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
416
Views
37
Total Upvotes
on Nov 12, 2023 on Nov 12, 2023
Last Activity

McKinsey Behavioral Question

behavioral behavioral interviews McKinsey
Most recent answer on Sep 30, 2023
The best answer (on Nov 24, 2022) is from:
Lucie
Expert
10+yrs recruiting & BCG Project leader
Lucie
Expert
gave the best answer on Nov 24, 2022
10+yrs recruiting & BCG Project leader
Hi there,  generally speaking about personal interview, bare in mind: •Questions will be selected based on your CV and cover letter (in addition to your job position), ensure alignment when preparing all 3 •Choose the r ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
1.4 k
Views
63
Total Upvotes
on Sep 30, 2023 on Sep 30, 2023
Last Activity

Fit Interview

behavioral interviews fit interview Fit Interview Stories Fresh Graduate
Most recent answer on Aug 05, 2023
The best answer (on Aug 05, 2023) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on Aug 05, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Step 1 - Categorize the main stories There are 5-10 "themes" you need to prepare for. i.e. Leadership, teamwork, challenge, etc. Figure out this list and make sure your stories cover this range (PM me and I can provide ... (read entire answer)
3
Answers
302
Views
31
Total Upvotes
on Aug 05, 2023 on Aug 05, 2023
Last Activity

Bain behavioral interview

Anyone who has worked at Bain? Bain Bain & Company Bainlondonoffice behavioral interviews MBB
Most recent answer on May 29, 2023
Anonymous B gave the best answer on May 29, 2023
Hi there, Congratulations on securing an interview at Bain for an AC (Associate Consultant) role. The behavioral interview is an important part of the selection process, and preparing for it is crucial. While the specif ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
1.9 k
Views
72
Total Upvotes
on May 29, 2023 on May 29, 2023
Last Activity

Is it okay to exclusively use experiences from one job during my behavioral interviews?

behavioral interviews Experienced Hire MBB
Most recent answer on May 31, 2022
The best answer (on May 27, 2022) is from:
Allen
Expert
Ex-McK Experienced Hire and EM - I show you how to perform at your best
Allen
Expert
gave the best answer on May 27, 2022
Ex-McK Experienced Hire and EM - I show you how to perform at your best
Hi there, Simple answer: Yes. Elaboration: The most important thing is to give good, deep answers that show your talents and skills.  So focus on this, and don't worry about the context.  I've heard great stories from p ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
666
Views
48
Total Upvotes
on May 31, 2022 on May 31, 2022
Last Activity

How to answer "How did you solve a conflict?"

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Oct 31, 2021
The best answer (on Oct 13, 2021) is from:
Ian
Expert
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Ian
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 13, 2021
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate
Please don't make up a scenario! If you get pressed with follow-up questions they'll know you're lying. Here's a tip: Your conflict doens't have to be work related! It could be at school, it could be for a side-venture, ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
1.4 k
Views
23
Total Upvotes
on Oct 31, 2021 on Oct 31, 2021
Last Activity

How to answer "How did you lead the team as a consultant?"

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Oct 31, 2021
The best answer (on Oct 13, 2021) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 13, 2021
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi there,  Generally your answer is good. I'd do a few things additionally:1. Provide significantly more detail, emphasing your individual contribution 2. Try to figure out how you approach is different than that of oth ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
825
Views
48
Total Upvotes
on Oct 31, 2021 on Oct 31, 2021
Last Activity

In one round of 2 interviews, the interviewers the same behavior questions, should I use the same example?

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Oct 22, 2021
The best answer (on Oct 07, 2021) is from:
Florian
Expert
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets
Florian
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 07, 2021
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets
Hey there, It depends: 1. If the question is related to your motivation, you should have the same answer ready (e.g., why consulting, why firm x, guide me through your resume,…) 2. If the question deals with a specific ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
687
Views
61
Total Upvotes
on Oct 22, 2021 on Oct 22, 2021
Last Activity

When applying for an office, is "my partner lives here" a good reason?

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Oct 22, 2021
The best answer (on Oct 07, 2021) is from:
Pedro
Expert
30% off in April 2024 | Bain | EY-Parthenon | Roland Berger | Market Sizing | DARDEN MBA
Pedro
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 07, 2021
30% off in April 2024 | Bain | EY-Parthenon | Roland Berger | Market Sizing | DARDEN MBA
It depends. If it is THE reason, no it is not a good reason. Of course you don't fail if you say this, but it is a missed opportunity. If it is one of the reasons, then it is a good reason but I would phrase it differen ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
573
Views
49
Total Upvotes
on Oct 22, 2021 on Oct 22, 2021
Last Activity

I am moving from one consultancy of the same tier to another one

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Oct 17, 2021
The best answer (on Oct 08, 2021) is from:
Adi
Expert
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience
Adi
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 08, 2021
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience
Hey, Two parts to the answer: Moving from one firm to another I always advice candidates to focus the conversation on mutual FIT i.e. there a good match in regards to your values (personal & professional), career as ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
473
Views
44
Total Upvotes
on Oct 17, 2021 on Oct 17, 2021
Last Activity

I find it hard to answer "how would you do it differently"?

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Oct 16, 2021
The best answer (on Oct 12, 2021) is from:
Cristian
Expert
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Cristian
Expert
gave the best answer on Oct 12, 2021
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach
Hi there,  I can understand how that can be challenging. Here are a few things you can do: Reflect on how you reached your biggest achievement and what were the challenges you faced. Try to figure out how you responded ... (read entire answer)
7
Answers
1.8 k
Views
64
Total Upvotes
on Oct 16, 2021 on Oct 16, 2021
Last Activity

MBB What do you like do for fun/outside of work?

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Oct 08, 2021
The best answer (on Aug 14, 2021) is from:
Adi
Expert
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience
Adi
Expert
gave the best answer on Aug 14, 2021
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience
Unless you are doing something crazy/controversial outside of work (I hope not!), be authentic :). Have fun with this and show them your personal side. Don't try to give an answer to conform to expectations. It is what ... (read entire answer)
6
Answers
1.1 k
Views
8
Total Upvotes
on Oct 08, 2021 on Oct 08, 2021
Last Activity

What kind of questions should I ask at the end of an interview?

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Sep 05, 2021
The best answer (on Sep 03, 2021) is from:
Adi
Expert
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience
Adi
Expert
gave the best answer on Sep 03, 2021
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience
Hey, Many candidates miss the opportunity here and ask bland/predictable questions.  Think of the following questions: How has the company adapted in these COVID times? What specifically has changed/improved? Which clie ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
623
Views
62
Total Upvotes
on Sep 05, 2021 on Sep 05, 2021
Last Activity

I was asked if I am on track for promotion. I said yes but actually no. What's the consequence?

behavioral interviews
Most recent answer on Jul 29, 2021
The best answer (on Jul 29, 2021) is from:
Florian
Expert
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets
Florian
Expert
gave the best answer on Jul 29, 2021
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets
Hey there, There won't be any consequences. It's a bit of a weird interviewer question tbh. In consulting everyone is always on track for (micro)-promotion more or less so I would not make a big deal out of it.  I ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
642
Views
46
Total Upvotes
on Jul 29, 2021 on Jul 29, 2021
Last Activity

I have been invited to Mckinsey PEI. How do I go about it (details below)?

behavioral interviews McKinsey McKinsey & Company McKinsey PEI
Most recent answer on Jun 26, 2021
The best answer (on May 05, 2021) is from:
Francesco
Expert
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Francesco
Expert
gave the best answer on May 05, 2021
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching
Hi there, It would be very unusual to have 2-3 rounds of behavioral questions only. I would expect cases as well, but you can clarify with HR just in case. Market sizing and estimation questions (I guess that's what ... (read entire answer)
5
Answers
2.9 k
Views
42
Total Upvotes
on Jun 26, 2021 on Jun 26, 2021
Last Activity
1 - 20 of 36 results

Consulting Q&A – Ask Questions about Your Career

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