Coaching

Hello,

Coaching can involve anything from one-off sessions doing a mock case interview or a resume review with feedback, to a longer-term period of working together where the coach helps you through the entirety of the recruiting process (including talking through the recruiting process, help with networking/getting a referral, putting together a prep plan, CV/resume/cover review, walking through the application, online tests, case and fit interview prep, and any miscellaneous questions that come up). Some coaches may specialize in particular services, but many are happy to cater specifically to what you need. It's always best to let the coach know exactly what you're looking for - I always make sure to clarify this with the candidate in advance of the session, so that we can use the coaching time most effectively.

If you share a bit more about what you were expecting, I would be happy to provide more detail.

Hi there,

the role of the coach can entail pretty much what you want it to be. Different coaches will have different styles and have varying offerings. Some follow more of a standard program approach while others will tailor the curriculum directly to your specific situation. The right choice really depends on what you're looking for.

Best way to be sure and avoid misalignment on expectations would be, if you spend a bit of time to have quick informal chats with your shortlisted coaches upfront, where you can..

• Better understand and discuss their style, approach, offering, resources etc
• Set & align on expectations
• Ask any questions you may have for them

Not all, but most coaches are open to such intro chats, so I can strongly recommend you use this tool to get clarity.

Once done, simply select the that best aligns with your needs and expectation.

If you want to chat to learn more, feel free to reach out via DM. 

Hope this helps. 

Regards, Andi

Hi there,

Q: What does the role of a coach entail?

In general, a coach should help you achieve the results you want faster.

For a case interview, a coach should ideally help you to land an offer. The way he/she can do it depends on what they present on their profile. Some might offer just mock sessions, while others might include prep material and mentoring.

If you have doubts, I would recommend to PM the coaches that might be interesting to you. To select a few, you can do the following:

1. Go to the main page listing the coaches: https://www.preplounge.com/en/case-coach
2. Filter the coaches based on your criteria (eg budget, companies, languages)
3. Read reviews/profiles – define a shortlist (eg 3-5 coaches)
4. Message the coaches with your questions and what you would like to work on to see if there is a match
5. Select the coach that best suits your needs 

As a bonus point: you can check their Q&A answers (there is a label called “Q&A Contributions” in the profile) – it should give you an idea of the style of the coach and if it matches what you are looking for.

For additional questions please feel free to PM me.

Best,

Francesco

Hi there,

#1 Talk to your coach!

If the coach isn't delivering what you expected, simply ask them! Say “Hey, I was expecting this. Can we adjust so that this expectation is met”

It's important to remember that every single person is different (coach and candidate) so expectations aren't always clear/aligned.

This is a great lesson for your future consulting career as well :)

Again, the best thing you can do is be clear on the services and what you need from your coach. Give them a chance to provide what is needed.

What a coach does

Think of them like a personal trainer.

In some cases this means they give you a training plan to lose weight. This could include a nutruition/eating plan as well (but may not if you don't ask). Or, you might want to train for a sport. Or, you might already be fit and need physio (repair of damage). Or, you're looking for improving your workout technique.

Make sense?

A coach can help you throughout the entire recruiting/interview journey OR just in specific spots. They might be there just to case + assess you, or provide you a tailored preparation plan, or work with you on specific weaknesses you have.

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about your negative experience with your current coach.

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

• First of all, a coach's role generally involves guiding you as the candidate through the recruiting process. This may include clarifying concepts, helping with your application files, pre-interview assessments, case studies, and personal fit questions, providing industry insights, and offering other personalized advice to improve your interview performance.
• Moreover, I would highly advise you to stop or at least pause doing coaching sessions with this specific coach if you have the feeling it is not helpful or is not what you expected. If the coaching sessions do not meet your expectations, you should not hesitate to discuss this with your coach.
• Lastly, most coaches offer introductory calls to also discuss expectations. Use these calls to ensure a good fit before moving forward.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

That's a great question. 

Usually, it's best not to commit to one coach before you understand their approach. 

If you're unhappy with how things are going, it's probably for a good reason.

Here are a few things to have in mind when you select one and then how to work with them:

Hope this helps!
Cristian