Online vs face-to-face practice?

Question

Hi all!

Was just wondering what people's thoughts are on online v.s. face to face practice? Since I'm based in a rather small town at the moment, there are not too many partners to practice with face-to-face, hence I am mainly practicing with practicing with partners online for now. I will be moving to a bigger city roughly 2 weeks before my first round interviews, and thus am hoping to get some face-to-face practice in then.

However, an MBB consultant has warned me that online practice is not a perfect substitute for face-to-face practice. What are people's thoughts on this?

Many thanks!

Answer 1

Hi!

I managed to receive an offer both from Mckinsey and BCG without having done a single mock interview with anyone :)

Thus, believe me, it is now fundamental for you to practice with someone.

The only difference I can see from online vs. face-to-face practice is that in the online one, the mock "interviewer won't be able to see you writing (e.g., structuring revenues-cost, doing calculations) and it's more difficult to analyze tables, graphs and so on unless they are provided electronically.

You can always remedy this showing what you are writing and data tables/graphs to the camera. Therefore, I can't see any counter-indications in doing it online if you are not able to do them face to face.

I also saw a few first-round interviews conducted via Skype due to the impossibility for the candidate to be in person for the first interview (e.g., candidate working in Asia applying for a position in London).

I hope it helps!

Answer 2

I would have to say that face to face practice is definitely a lot more effective as the process is not just about getting the right answer but also about listening and picking up on cues. One solution would be to ask people to ask you questions from a case book such as case in point. Another could be video chatting with other students in different towns. Some of your interviews could be via VC so this is helpful regardless

Answer 3

I'm currently practicing cases with people face to face and via video link. I assumed that face to face would be much more useful but in practice I have found almost no difference once you have a good internet connection and utilize the platform(s) properly for sharing exhibits etc. As Giulia pointed out you can overcome seeing the interviewee notes by re-positioning the camera.