General BB Interview Strategy

Preparing for a finance interview takes more than just technical knowledge. The first step is to build a strong foundation through self-study – covering everything from accounting and valuation to the basics of M&A. Once that’s in place, practicing with peers helps you apply your knowledge in realistic settings and gain confidence in answering typical interview questions.If you want to deepen your preparation and address specific weaknesses, professional coaching can be a valuable next step. Especially in the final phase of your prep, it can help reduce uncertainty, highlight your strengths, and refine your delivery so you leave a strong impression in the interview. Why Coaching Can Be a Game-Changer in Finance InterviewsA professional interview coaching session can significantly improve your preparation, particularly if you already have a solid grasp of the content and want to focus on your overall performance. Training with an experienced coach offers several key benefits:Personalized feedbackA coach will quickly spot where you’re still uncertain – whether it’s your structure, technical depth, or communication. You’ll receive honest, direct feedback and know exactly what to work on.Realistic interview simulationsCompared to peer practice, coaching sessions often feel more like the real thing. You’ll train under realistic conditions and learn to stay composed under time pressure, respond to follow-up questions, and handle unexpected situations.Deep technical insightMany coaches have firsthand experience in investment banking, private equity, or M&A. They not only evaluate your responses technically but also show you what interviewers in practice are really looking for.Structure and clarityA coach will help you structure your preparation efficiently. You’ll know what to review and where it’s worth diving deeper, so you can stay focused and avoid unnecessary detours.Time savingsWith targeted sessions, you can make meaningful progress quickly. Instead of working through materials alone, you get precise feedback and actionable suggestions.Greater confidence in interviewsIn the end, it’s about how you present yourself. Being well-prepared and knowing what to expect builds your confidence and helps you leave a professional impression. What You Can Work on with a CoachA coaching session gives you the chance to focus on the areas that matter most for your specific situation. Depending on your background and target role, you can set clear priorities and walk through typical interview scenarios in a structured way.Common coaching topics include:Technical questions on accounting, valuation, and capital structureFundamentals of DCF, multiples, and LBO logicHandling stress questions or challenging follow-upsPersonal fit, motivation, and career goalsMini-cases or short valuation exercisesClear and structured communication of your ideas How to Find the Right Coach on PrepLoungeThinking about booking a coaching session but unsure where to start? On PrepLounge, you’ll find a wide selection of experienced coaches from backgrounds including investment banking, private equity, and M&A.Finding your coach is easy:Browse coach profiles to compare experience, specializations, and past reviewsRead what other candidates have said to better assess fit and styleSchedule an introductory call – many coaches offer short calls to get to know each otherBook a session and get started once you know what you need👉 Visit our coach overview to find finance interview experts with real industry experience.

Bulge Bracket or Boutique Bank – which is the better choice for your finance career?