Practice with Peers

You understand how a DCF model works, can calculate a leveraged buyout, and know how to estimate company values using multiples – but theory alone isn’t enough in an interview. The next step in your preparation should be to practice applying your knowledge in real interview situations.

When you practice with peers, you can simulate typical interview scenarios. You'll learn how to answer technical questions confidently, manage time pressure, and respond effectively to follow-up questions. Over time, this helps you build a strong presence and get used to expressing your thoughts clearly and in a structured way.

You’ll also benefit from valuable feedback from other peers who are preparing just as seriously. They often spot areas for improvement – such as your answer structure, argumentation, or language clarity.

And it's not just about practicing as a candidate. When you take on the role of the interviewer or observe others, you sharpen your sense for clear communication, analytical thinking, and common response patterns. This also enhances your own performance in interviews.
 

How to Simulate a Realistic Interview Setting

The best way to prepare for a finance interview is to simulate the conversation as realistically as possible. In real interviews, you often have just 30 to 45 minutes to impress both technically and personally. To prepare for this, your practice sessions should closely mirror the typical flow of an actual interview.

A realistic mock interview begins with a short introduction and a common opening question like “Tell me about yourself” or “Why do you want to work in investment banking?” This is followed by technical questions, such as on valuation methods, balance sheet relationships, or capital structures. The person acting as the interviewer should ask follow-ups, react spontaneously, and vary the level of difficulty.

👉 We’ve selected a few question sets from our Case Library that’ll help you master the technical part of the interview.

In some cases, it’s also useful to include a brief valuation scenario. This might involve a rough company valuation or a basic investment decision. These mini-cases only take a few minutes but are extremely helpful in training your structuring skills, numerical understanding, and ability to argue convincingly.

Here are a few relevant cases:

It’s essential that both roles are taken seriously. The interviewer should run the session professionally, listen carefully, and ask probing questions. As the candidate, you should respond in a structured way, articulate your thoughts clearly, and remain calm – even if you don’t immediately know the answer.

At the end of each session, allow a few minutes for feedback. This helps identify what went well, where uncertainties remain, and what to improve in the next round. Regular practice builds not only technical confidence but also self-assurance for real interviews.
 

How to Find the Right Practice Partners on PrepLounge

On PrepLounge, you can connect with other candidates preparing for finance interviews via the Meeting Board. You’ll find an overview of upcoming mock interview time slots and can also propose your own sessions.

The easiest way is to post your own session. You can specify your availability, the level of partners you're looking for, and add comments with further details. Alternatively, you can simply accept an existing meeting slot that fits your schedule and prep level.

You can also browse profiles in the Interview Partner Section. Here, you’ll see details like your potential partners’ experience levels, preferred languages, universities, and locations. Use the filter options to narrow your search by prep level or time zone – making it easier to find someone who fits your routine and goals.

Make sure your profile is fully completed. Most importantly, include your university, experience level, and ideally your target firm. You can also add a short headline that outlines your focus, goals, or training preferences. This helps others understand at a glance what you're preparing for and what kind of session you're seeking.

With a bit of initiative and a clear goal, you’ll quickly find motivated partners on PrepLounge to practice with – whether you’re just starting out or days away from your interview.
 

Best Practices for Your Mock Interview Sessions

To prepare effectively, your sessions should be well structured with clear goals. The following best practices will help you get the most out of your prep:

1) Set a clear goal for each session.

Think in advance about what you want to focus on – technical questions, personal fit, or a specific case. When both partners know the focus, sessions are more targeted and productive.

2) Switch roles regularly.

Alternate between candidate and interviewer roles. This perspective shift helps you think more clearly, ask better questions, and spot common weaknesses. That’s why PrepLounge meetings are scheduled for 90 minutes – allowing a role switch halfway through.

3) Add variety to your sessions.

Practice different question formats: technical questions, stress questions, mini-cases, or personal fit discussions. This mix helps you stay adaptable and prepare for different interview styles.

4) Allow time for feedback and reflection.

Always leave time for mutual feedback. Write down specific points for improvement and focus on them next time. Only through honest feedback can you make real progress.

5) Practice regularly in small sessions.

Rather than long, infrequent sessions, opt for short, consistent practice. This helps you stay in the zone, reinforce knowledge gradually, and build confidence – one of the most important success factors in interviews.

Key Takeaways

Effective preparation for finance interviews goes beyond just studying DCFs, LBOs, or valuation multiples. What really matters is your ability to apply what you’ve learned in real interview scenarios. Practicing with peers helps you simulate interview dynamics, communicate clearly under pressure, and respond to follow-up questions in a structured way. You’ll also receive valuable feedback and develop a confident presence over time.

Since most interviews include a mix of technical questions, personal fit, and occasionally small cases, you should prepare for all formats. Realistic mock interviews with clear role assignments and constructive feedback are especially effective.

On PrepLounge, the Meeting Board helps you connect with suitable partners for your practice sessions. You can join existing meetings or schedule your own. With a complete profile and clear objectives, getting started is easy.

Use additional resources like question sets, mini-cases, and personal uploads to keep your sessions diverse and impactful. Those who practice regularly, explore different question types, and act on feedback will enter interviews with greater confidence and clarity.