Big 4 Partner Interview Tips [Deloitte EY PWC KPMG]

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares invaluable tips and strategies for succeeding in a final round partner interview at a Big Four firm (EY, PwC, Deloitte, KPMG). Drawing from personal experience, they discuss important factors such as choosing the right time slot for the interview, researching the partner, and creating a personable, relaxed atmosphere during the interview. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being professional yet approachable, with a focus on teamwork and being someone the partner would want to work with. Practical advice includes how to handle first impressions, manage nerves, and set the right tone for the conversation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Choose your interview time wisely—opt for Thursday or Friday afternoon for a more relaxed and engaging interview environment.
• 😀 Research the partner beforehand—look them up on LinkedIn and find common ground to build rapport.
• 😀 Avoid getting too comfortable in the business lounge—resist the temptation to grab tea or snacks.
• 😀 Make a great first impression by standing up, greeting the partner with enthusiasm, and shaking hands.
• 😀 Asking for water during the interview is a good idea—it gives you something to do with your hands and helps you manage nervous moments.
• 😀 Be personable and relaxed—show that you’re someone the partner would want to work with and fit into the team.
• 😀 Focus on demonstrating key skills like teamwork, adaptability, and leadership during the interview.
• 😀 Don’t shy away from light conversation—engage with the partner in a casual way to build rapport and make the interview feel like a conversation.
• 😀 Partners prefer to pass candidates—they have more to gain by doing so, so they approach interviews with a positive mindset.
• 😀 Avoid distractions—don’t take pictures, selfies, or make yourself overly familiar in the office environment.
• 😀 Remember that partners expect you to already be a qualified candidate—don’t worry about being grilled, but show confidence and competence.

Q & A

Why should I schedule my interview for Thursday or Friday afternoon?

Scheduling your interview for Thursday or Friday afternoon is recommended because by that time, the partner has already completed the more stressful and important tasks of the day. This means they are likely to be more relaxed and focused, which can make your interview feel more like a conversation than a formal grilling.

What is the importance of researching the partner before the interview?

Researching the partner on LinkedIn or Google helps you understand their interests, professional background, and recent activities. This allows you to find common ground and possibly ask them insightful questions, which shows that you are genuinely interested in them and the company, helping you stand out.

What should I avoid doing while waiting in the office lounge before the interview?

While waiting in the office lounge, avoid making yourself too comfortable. Don’t grab snacks, drinks, or take selfies. This could make you appear overly familiar or unprofessional. Instead, sit quietly, observe the surroundings, and stay alert.

What is the best way to greet the partner when they enter the interview room?

When the partner enters the room, stand up, walk over to greet them, and offer a firm handshake. You should look energized, excited, and ready for the conversation. This shows professionalism and enthusiasm, which are important for making a positive first impression.

Is it okay to ask for a drink during the interview, and why?

Yes, it is perfectly fine to ask for water when offered. It not only gives you something to do with your hands if you’re nervous but can also buy you a few seconds to think if you’re stumped by a question. It's a simple strategy to help manage your nerves during the interview.

What are partners in Big Four firms typically looking for during the interview?

Partners are looking for candidates who are personable, curious, and easy to work with. They want someone who can fit well into the team and contribute positively to the work environment. It’s important to demonstrate qualities like teamwork, leadership, adaptability, and the ability to learn.

How should I approach the conversation if the interview feels relaxed and informal?

If the interview is relaxed and informal, you should still maintain professionalism but feel free to engage in light conversation. Think of it like a casual chat after work—friendly but still respectful. For example, talking about a shared interest, like sports, can help build rapport, but keep it appropriate and steer the conversation back to your qualifications when needed.

What kind of questions might I expect in a Big Four partner interview?

You can expect questions about your resume, experiences, and how you’ve demonstrated key skills like teamwork, leadership, and adaptability. Be prepared to discuss your previous roles, university experiences, and any challenges you've overcome. In addition, expect to showcase your ability to learn and develop in a fast-paced environment.

How can I show that I’m a good fit for the team during the interview?

To show you’re a good fit, be personable and demonstrate that you can work well with others. Partners are looking for candidates who are not only capable but also easy to work with. Show that you’re approachable, open to feedback, and eager to contribute positively to the team dynamic.

What should I expect after the interview if I’m successful?

If you’re successful, you can expect a follow-up call from the partner the next day, confirming that you’ve passed the interview. HR will then contact you to go through the formalities, including the contract, background checks, and any other requirements before you officially start your role at the firm.