Top interview questions for accounting internships & grad jobs (and how to answer them)

Keen to know what questions pop up in accounting & advisory job interviews? Each year, we survey thousands of grads and gather real interview questions they faced. Let's take a look at what the most common ones are and how you can answer them!

1. Personal questions

Many grads are pleasantly surprised to find that interviews with accounting & advisory firms can be quite relaxed. Interviewers often focus on understanding who you are as a person, rather than solely concentrating on technical knowledge.

This holds true even for the Big 4 firms. For instance, an Audit Analyst at Deloitte mentioned being asked about their favorite Netflix series during the interview.

Interestingly, the more senior the interviewer, the more relaxed the interview tends to be. A Consulting Associate at PwC recounted their experience with a Director and Senior Manager as "definitely the most relaxed interview I ever had."

It's helpful to remember this: If you're at the interview stage, they're already impressed with your credentials. The face-to-face interview is more about seeing if you're a good fit for the team, someone who would work well with both colleagues and clients.

If you get this far, they already want to hire you. They just need to make sure they’ll get along with you, as they need to work with you every day! – Risk Consultant @ KPMG

Now let's dive into some questions grads have actually encountered in real interviews.

'Why did you choose to study accounting?'

When employers ask this, they're typically looking to see:

If you make well-reasoned choices. (If you do, you'll likely make thoughtful decisions at work!)

If you're genuinely interested in accounting. (Having some degree of interest usually translates to more motivation to do a good job at work.)

Weak response

I kind of fell into studying accounting. I wasn't sure what I wanted to do after high school, and my parents suggested it because they thought it would lead to a stable job. I found the classes to be quite dry and theoretical, but I stuck with it because I didn't have a better idea. I guess I'm hoping to find something more interesting in the actual working world, but I haven't really thought much about what kind of accounting role I want.

While honesty is generally appreciated, this type of response might not impress your interviewers. Let’s explore a more effective way to answer.

Strong response

Well, I've always been into numbers and solving puzzles, you know? In high school, I was that kid who actually enjoyed math classes.

When it was time to pick a major, accounting just clicked for me. It’s not just crunching numbers; it’s like you're piecing together a story behind a business using financial data, which I find really cool.

Plus, I did this internship at a local firm last summer. It was eye-opening to see how accounting decisions can really make or break a business.

I learned a ton and it just kind of confirmed that I’m on the right path. It’s a field where I feel I can keep growing and really make a difference, which is exciting to me. 

'What do you do in your spare time?'

This common interview question, along with others like "What's your favourite subject?" and "Tell me something about yourself not on your CV", is a way for interviewers to see a more complete picture of you.

They are looking to understand if you're a well-rounded individual with diverse interests outside of your academic and professional life. Demonstrating a range of interests suggests you have a balanced life. It indicates adaptability, the ability to learn new things, and a capacity for managing various aspects of life. This versatility is valuable in dynamic work environments.

Remember, it's not just about listing your hobbies; it's about sharing why these activities are meaningful to you.

 Weak response

Honestly, I don't do much in my spare time. Most days, I just end up binge-watching shows or scrolling through social media. I guess I play video games now and then, but nothing too serious. I don’t really have any hobbies that I’m passionate about. My weekends are mostly just about relaxing and taking it easy.

Strong response

In my downtime, I really enjoy a mix of activities that keep me both mentally and physically active. 

I play soccer – it’s great for fitness and I love the team spirit. It's a nice escape from the daily routine and helps me work on teamwork skills, too.

Reading is another big passion of mine, especially books on history and economics. They help me understand different perspectives and keep my critical thinking sharp.

And recently, I’ve started exploring coding. It began as a curiosity, but I’m finding it really intriguing, especially how it ties into the business world. So, my free time is a mix of sports, reading, and a bit of tech.

'What are your strengths and weaknesses?'

This is a standard question at interviews in general, so it's probably no surprise many grads mentioned encountering it in their accounting & advisory interviews. 

By asking this question, employers aim to get an idea of whether you can learn, grow, and become a better employee over time. That's because this question helps reveal:

How self-aware you are. If you can accurately assess your own strengths and weaknesses, you likely have a good understanding of yourself and what you need to improve on.

How 'coachable' you are. Firms invest a lot in your training & professional development especially in the first couple years of your career, so they want to make sure you can take constructive criticism. Admitting to your own weaknesses is a sign that you're likely able to do that.

Weak response

For my strengths, I'd say I'm extremely hardworking and dedicated. I never stop until I get the job done, no matter how long it takes.

As for my weakness, it's probably that I work too hard. Sometimes I get so focused on my work that I forget to take breaks, and I can burn myself out. But I think it's just because I'm really passionate about what I do.

I also have to admit, I'm not great with numbers. I tend to make mistakes with calculations and sometimes get confused with complex financial data, which I know isn't ideal for accounting. But I'm hoping it won't be a big issue.

Why does this response fall short? For starters, you probably don't want to admit to being bad with numbers in an accounting interview. Who would hire an accountant who can't do basic maths?

And more importantly, 'working too hard' is not a real weakness! Neither is 'being a perfectionist' (a humblebrag about having high standards) or 'being too helpful' (a humblebrag about being too good of a team player) — other false 'weaknesses' grads often talk about.

Think about it like this:

When you're choosing an employer, you want a complete, honest picture, not just the positives. Similarly, when employers ask about your strengths and weaknesses, they're looking for that same level of honesty and completeness about you.

Just as you'd be skeptical of a company with only glowing reviews (because let's face it, no place is perfect), employers are wary of candidates who only offer 'positive' weaknesses. Claiming to work too hard or help others too much can come across like those one-sided reviews – they don't provide a full, genuine insight.

Employers appreciate when you can candidly assess both your strong points and areas for growth. It’s like reading a well-balanced review: it shows you're self-aware and committed to improving, just as you'd want an employer to be.

Strong response

One big strength of mine is my analytical skills. Like this one time in my accounting class, we had this major project analyzing a company's financial statements. I dove deep into the numbers and found some trends that even my professor hadn't noticed. It was a bit like detective work, uncovering the story behind the figures and I loved it!

Now, for weaknesses, I'd say public speaking has been a bit of a challenge for me. I realised this during a class presentation last semester. I got pretty nervous and it hit me – in an advisory role, I'll need to be confident in presenting my analysis and advice, especially when explaining financial stuff to clients who might not be as number-savvy. So, I've been actively working on this. I joined a public speaking club at university, and it's been a great way to practice and get more comfortable speaking in front of others.

This response works because:

The strength mentioned analytical skills, is specific and highly relevant to the accounting field. (Other skills like this include attention to detail, a knack for numbers, and problem-solving skills.)

The weakness is genuine and the response includes a story that shows self-awareness. The candidate told a story about (1) how they identified the weakness, (2) why they know they need to fix it, and (3) how they're working on it. You should structure your response like this for maximal impact.

You'll also notice how the candidate doesn't just mention their strength or weakness. They also provide examples to illustrate these attributes.

'If you could have a superpower, what would it be?'

Related: "If you were an animal (or fruit), what would you be?"

These questions are more than just fun ice-breakers. They offer interviewers insights into your personality and values, and also test how you handle unexpected scenarios. For instance, how would you react if a client threw a curveball question at you?

Weak response

I guess I'd want to be invisible so I could sneak into movies and concerts without paying. It would be cool to go wherever I want without anyone noticing. I haven’t really thought about it much, but being invisible just seems like it could be a lot of fun and save me some money, I suppose.

While this answer is certainly creative, it might inadvertently give off the impression that you're inclined towards dishonest or unscrupulous behavior. This could be a concern, especially in professions like accounting where integrity is key.

Strong response

If I could pick a superpower, it would definitely be the ability to instantly learn and apply new knowledge.

Just think about it – one minute you’re flipping through a book on coding, and the next, you’re a whiz at programming. Or, you could pick up a language just by listening to a song.

I’ve always been super curious and love diving into new topics. But sometimes, there’s just not enough time to learn everything I want to. With this power, I could satisfy my curiosity, explore way more subjects, and really just make the most of all the learning opportunities out there. 

2. Questions about your career goals & professional interests

Employers want to know where you see yourself in the future and what kind of work you're excited about. This helps them figure out if the job they're offering fits your plans and if you're likely to be happy (and stay with them for at least a few years!).

They don't care if you see the role as just a stepping stone to something else, as long as you are willing to commit at least three years – Audit & Assurance Graduate @ Deloitte

So it's not just about whether you can do the job; it's also about whether you'll enjoy it and grow with the company. Employers understand that when your goals and the company's needs line up well, it's better for both you and them!

'Where do you see yourself in five years?'

 Weak response

In five years, I’m not really sure where I’ll be. I might stick around in accounting, or maybe I’ll move into something totally different, like finance or tech. I see this role as a good starting point, but I’m keeping my options open. I'm just looking for any experience I can get right now, and I'm not too focused on where it will lead. I guess I'll figure that out as I go.

Strong response

I definitely see myself deeply involved in the accounting world. I’m really keen on specialising in audit and assurance. It just clicks with what I’m good at – digging into details and analysing data.

By then, I hope to have my CPA and be handling some more complex projects here. I’m also pretty excited about the idea of guiding new grads who’ll be where I am now – I think sharing experiences and helping others grow is super important.

While I’m open to where my career might take me, I’m all in for building a strong foundation in auditing first. It’s where I can see myself making a real impact in the near future.

Why does this response work? Hear a grad explain:

I believe it would be a great idea to have a good think about why you want to work in your chosen service line like Audit, Tax, Consulting and others and basing these reasons off your strengths and interests.  – External Audit Graduate @ Findex

For more tips on answering this question, check out How to answer tricky interview questions: where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

'What industries would you be interested in working with?'

 Weak response

Honestly, I haven't really thought much about specific industries. I guess any industry would be fine as long as I get to do some accounting work. Maybe something like retail or manufacturing, but I don’t have a strong preference. I just want to gain some experience in general accounting practices, so I’m not too fussed about the industry I work in.

Even if this response is true, it indicates a lack of preparation, thought ("I haven't really thought much ... ") and interest. Let's look at a more thoughtful response.

Strong response

I'm really interested in working with renewable energy and financial services. With renewable energy, it’s about getting to grips with how they finance big projects and handle all the environmental rules – it’s pretty complex and I’m up for that challenge.

In the financial services sector, things like keeping up with the latest regulations and helping big firms stay on top of the market changes are areas where I think I can really make a difference.

But hey, I’m also open to other industries. I reckon working in different areas would really round out my skills and give me a broader perspective.

Notice how the candidate admits interest in a variety of fields but still has a focus.

Remember to mention sectors that the firm actually works with. If you want to work with tech start-ups for instance but the firm doesn't work with them, that won't gain you any favours!

'Why do you want to work for us?'

When an employer asks, "Why do you want to work for us?", they're trying to understand a few key things:

Do you have a specific reason for choosing their firm? They're looking for signs that you've deliberately chosen their company, not just applying randomly.

Will you utilise what the firm offers? It's important for them to know if you're aware of and interested in the resources and opportunities they provide.

Have you done your homework? They want to see if you've taken the time to research the firm's values, goals, and the specifics of their graduate programme.

Weak response

I'm drawn to work for your firm because of its strong reputation in the accounting and advisory sector. Your firm’s emphasis on innovative solutions and a client-centric approach aligns perfectly with my professional values. I am particularly impressed by your commitment to continuous learning and development for your employees, which I believe is crucial in this rapidly evolving industry. Additionally, the opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects with a range of clients excites me. I see this as a platform where I can not only apply my skills but also grow professionally, contributing to the firm’s and my personal success.

This isn't the worst possible response, but it's filled with generic buzzwords ("innovative solutions," "client-centric," "rapidly evolving") that could apply to basically any firm out there. 

Strong response

KPMG’s global footprint, with your 190,000 employees across various countries, really appeals to me. It’s not just the numbers; it’s about the depth of experience and diversity that such a vast network brings. Working in a firm of this scale means access to a wealth of knowledge from experts around the world and the chance to be part of a wide range of projects.

Another thing that caught my attention is how KPMG is all about helping grads grow into their future roles, not just here in Australia but even globally. That’s exactly what I’m looking for – a place where I can broaden my skills and maybe even get some international experience. It’s super exciting to think about being part of a firm that’s so focused on helping its people grow and develop like that.

'Tell us why you want to work in the audit room.'

Firms will usually try to gauge your interest in whatever service line you've applied for. For example:

(If you applied to a tax role) Tell us why you want to work in tax.

(If you applied to an insolvency advisory role) Why insolvency?

(If you applied to a tech consulting role) What do you like about technology? What draws you to consulting?

Make sure to show interest but don't overdo it. How do you strike the balance? Well, there must be at least one thing about the service line you're applying for that interests you. Focus on that and don't feel like you need to fake an interest in anything else. Hiring managers will see right through it anyways!

Don't be too fake. Nobody is ecstatic to become an auditor, and when I see candidates approach me being this keen I know it's not genuine. – Enterprise Information Management Consultant @ Deloitte

Weak response

I'm eager to pursue a career in audit because of its dynamic and global nature. What really draws me to auditing is the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of various businesses and industries. It's fascinating how audit plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accuracy in financial reporting. I have a strong attention to detail and analytical skills, which I believe are essential in this field.

This is a weak response because it's still unclear why you're interested in audit specifically. Buzzwords like "dynamic" don't mean anything and frankly, anyone can express fascination in how audit 'plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accuracy'.

Strong response

I'm interested in working as an auditor because it equips you with skills that are incredibly valuable no matter where you go in the world. This means I can work in various countries and diverse settings, which is a fantastic opportunity for personal and professional growth. My studies in international accounting standards have also prepared me for this journey, and I can't wait to put these skills to work on a global scale.

3. Behavioural questions

Employers ask behavioural questions to get a peek into how you would behave in certain situations. They typically start with "Tell us about a time when ..." and they look gauge if you have certain traits. Accounting & advisory firms tend to look for teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

To be sure you know what they're looking for, you can always check the job description. For example, if they want someone who "works well under pressure" or "successfully meets deadlines," you can almost expect them to ask questions to see if you fit those criteria.

'How have you demonstrated teamwork?'

Regardless of how the interviewer phrases this question, you can be sure they'll ask you about teamwork.

How do you think your time playing volleyball refined your teamwork skills?

Describe a project where you had to work with a team to achieve a common goal. What was your role and how did you contribute to the team's success?

Teamwork is critical at accounting and advisory firms. Whether it's working with clients, collaborating on complex financial reports, or brainstorming solutions with colleagues, your ability to work effectively as part of a team is crucial.

That's why firms often have candidates collaborate with each other in group assessments. They're not just looking for number crunchers; they're on the hunt for team players who can blend their skills with others to achieve the best results.

Weak response

Well, I usually end up taking charge in group projects because I’m pretty good at leading. In one project, I assigned tasks to everyone and made most of the key decisions. We did well in the end, but some team members seemed unhappy with the tasks they were given. I guess they just weren't as committed as I was. I think the project showed that I can lead a team to success, even if some people don’t fully cooperate.

Strong response

In a marketing project at uni, I learned a valuable lesson in teamwork. At first, I assigned tasks based on what I thought were everyone’s strengths, without getting their input. This led to a bit of a mix-up and some frustration in the team.

It was a wake-up call about the importance of communication and involving everyone in decisions. After this, I focused on making sure we all shared and integrated our ideas, like unique market insights or creative strategies.

This approach really turned things around. We were able to combine our diverse skills effectively, leading to a successful marketing campaign for a local business.

In a good response, it’s important to showcase your ability to work effectively within a team, acknowledge the value of different roles, and demonstrate learning and self-awareness. A bad response overlooks these aspects, focusing too much on leadership or failing to show effective interpersonal skills.

'Tell us about a time you demonstrated leadership.'

In the corporate world, leadership means something a little different from what you've experienced in school. It's not just about being the founder of a club or leading a student project. In the professional world, leadership is also about your ability to manage teams effectively, nurture talent, and inspire your peers.

We ... are looking for leaders; we want to see evidence that you will be able to develop people. – Recruitment Manager @ KPMG

When asked to share an example of leadership, think of instances where you've guided others, fostered a collaborative environment, or helped someone grow. These experiences, no matter how small they might seem, can showcase your potential as a future leader in a company.

You'll also see this question asked in the following forms.

Tell me about a time when you had to lead a team. What was the biggest challenge you faced, and how did you overcome it?

Can you give an example of a time when you had to motivate a team? What strategies did you use?

Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult decision in a leadership role. What was the decision, and how did you arrive at it?

Weak response

Well, I was the captain of my university debating club. We used to meet and practice debates regularly. I made sure everyone attended the meetings and we all did our best. We didn’t win any big competitions, but I think everyone enjoyed being part of the club.

Notice how this response doesn't show how the candidate's leadership made any difference. They may as well not have led the club!

Strong response

As captain of the debate club, I saw we needed a better way to get ready for our debates. So, I started a new system where after every practice debate, we'd have a group session to discuss what went well and what didn't. This wasn't something we used to do. It really helped because everyone got to hear different viewpoints and we learned from each other's strengths. This change made a big difference. Our team started doing much better in competitions, and we even made it to the nationals that year. It showed me how one big change, like giving and getting feedback as a team, can really boost everyone's performance.

This version clearly explains what the person did as a leader and how it helped their team. 

'Give an example of a time when you encountered a problem or difficult situation.'

Working in the field of accounting & advisory won't always be smooth sailing, so employers ask this question to gauge whether you can deal with bumps in the road, big and small.

Also:

Tell us about a time when something went wrong. How did you deal with it?

Tell us about a time when you overcame something challenging.

Weak response

I remember this one time we had a group assignment and things just weren’t going well. We were all busy with other work, and communication wasn’t great. I can’t recall the specifics, but it was just a stressful time. Somehow, we managed to get the project done, though I’m not really sure what we did to solve the issues. It was more about just pushing through and hoping for the best.

Strong response

There was this one time in a group project last semester where we had this big marketing plan due, and just a week before, one of our team members got really ill and couldn’t chip in. So, we were kind of scrambling.

I got everyone together for a quick chat. We figured we'd split up his part of the work so no one got too overloaded. I also thought it’d be a good idea to talk to our professor, just to explain the situation. Luckily, we got a bit of an extension.

It was a bit of a whirlwind, but it really showed us how to pull together when things get rough and the importance of keeping cool and talking things out. In the end, we turned in a project we were all proud of, and it turned out pretty well, actually!

'Tell me about a time you failed.'

This question is related to the last one in that it asks you to reflect on a time when things didn't go as planned. Firms are gauging how you deal with tough situations and whether you can successfully learn and rebound from them.

Also:

Why did you fail [unit] at uni?

Can you share an example of a time you failed and what you learned as a result?

How do you cope with failure?

Weak response

I can't really think of a time when I've outright failed at something. I guess I’m usually pretty careful about what I take on, so I avoid getting into situations where I might not succeed. There might have been minor setbacks here and there, but nothing significant enough to call a failure.

Strong response

In my second year of university, I took on the role of organizing a charity event. I was really excited and maybe a bit overconfident. I ended up underestimating the time and effort needed for planning.

As the event date approached, I realized we were behind schedule, and key aspects like sponsorship and publicity weren’t fully sorted. Despite my efforts to pull things together last minute, the event wasn’t as successful as I had hoped.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson about effective time management and the importance of realistic planning. It was a humbling experience, but it made me a more organized and detail-oriented person. In my next project, I applied these lessons, leading to a much more successful outcome.

'Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult person.'

This question is basically about how you deal with conflict. Here are some other versions:

Can you tell me about a time when you had to work closely with a colleague who was difficult to get along with?

Tell us about a time your morals were challenged. How did you deal with the situation?

Firms ask this to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to handle challenging situations. In the field, you'll often work in teams and collaborate with clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders. Dealing with difficult individuals is a common occurrence, so firms want to know how you'll handle such scenarios.

Weak response

At my last job, there was this guy who was just impossible to work with. He always wanted things done his way and wouldn’t listen to what anyone else had to say. I tried to avoid him as much as possible and just did my work independently. Eventually, the project was completed, but I stayed away from team meetings where I knew he would be. There wasn’t really anything I could do about it; some people are just difficult to work with.

Strong response

Last semester, I worked on a group project with someone who was quite assertive and often dismissed our ideas. At first, I felt intimidated by his strong opinions. But I knew we needed a change to succeed.

So, I met with him and shared how our team's diverse ideas could enhance our project, using specific examples. I also suggested a new meeting format where everyone would have equal time to speak. He was initially surprised but agreed to try it.

This approach really turned things around. He started valuing our inputs more, and our final project reflected all of our contributions. It taught me that even when it's intimidating, direct communication can lead to positive changes in a team.

4. Questions about your skills

Employers all look for a skills match and some interviewers will ask you about them directly.

'Describe a time you used technology that would be useful at work.'

Firms aren't asking this to see if you use the same tech stack as them (though that's of course great!). They mainly want to know that you've used different technologies and can learn new ones on the job if necessary.

I don't think they're necessarily looking for proof that you've mastered specific tools. They'll still teach them to you from scratch after you start the job. So while it helps to show that you're familiar with Xero and MYOB, it's probably still more important to show that you're open to learning new things and adapting to changes. – Undergraduate Accountant

Weak response

Well, there was this one time when I used Excel for a project at uni. It was pretty basic stuff, just some spreadsheets and formulas. I guess I also dabbled a bit with MYOB and Xero in a few courses, but nothing too advanced. So yeah, I've got some experience with those, I guess.

Strong response

During uni, I regularly used tools like Excel, MYOB, and Xero for various projects. For instance, in a finance project, I created financial models and detailed reports using Excel. It was a significant part of my coursework, and I got pretty good at it through hands-on practice and guidance from professors.

In another course focused on accounting software, I had the opportunity to work extensively with MYOB and Xero. I learned to navigate these platforms by completing assignments and applying them to real-world accounting scenarios.

'What skills do you bring to the firm or service line?'

Also:

How do your skills translate into the audit room?

What can you bring to the firm that others cannot?

(After talking about your life experiences) How might these experiences apply in a work setting?

Weak response

I guess I have some good skills. I did pretty well in my accounting classes, and people say I'm a fast learner. I'm not really sure what specific skills I'll need here, but I'm willing to learn whatever you teach me. I think I'm pretty good with numbers and stuff, and I can work on Excel and other software if that's what you need.

This response smacks of 'I have no idea what the role is about'. The 'skills' they bring up (being a fast learner, being good with numbers) don't relate to any specific requirements of the firm or service line.

Strong response

Here's a response someone might make if they're applying for a role in tax.

In my tax-focused internship, I really got the hang of uncovering tax savings that often go unnoticed. It’s kind of like being a detective with numbers, which not only saved our clients money but made the work interesting.

I’m also pretty good at making complicated tax laws easy for clients to understand. There's something satisfying about taking something complex and explaining it in a way that clicks. Like, I don't think it's 100% necessary to help clients understand the ins-and-outs of tax law, but I do find that it does help me gain their trust when I can explain the rationale behind new regulations. 

5. Technical questions

Luckily, some firms don't ask technical questions at all!

As I was hired as a graduate, there were no technical questions as grads are not expected to know much. – Audit & Assurance Graduate @ Grant Thornton

No technical questions asked, it was more of a general discussion. – Graduate Accountant @ William Buck

As for the firms who do ask technical questions ... don't get all worked up thinking you need to be a walking encyclopedia of technical knowledge. That's not the expectation here.

Grads told us that the technical questions tend to be about basic accounting principles or the business unit you applied for. For example, if you're applying for an audit role, you might be asked to explain what you know about internal controls.

Interviewers aren't here to play mind games with you or hit you with tricky questions, because they know that you're new to the industry!

What they really want to see is that you've got a grasp of the basics (which, let's be honest, you should have covered in your classes unless you've been snoozing at the back of the lecture hall). They're looking for that spark of curiosity and a willingness to learn.

No one expects you to have technical knowledge, but demonstrate you understand what your field is about and that you want to be a part of it. – Business Analyst @ Korda Mentha

And if you find yourself stumped by a question, don't feel the need to make up an answer. It's perfectly okay to admit that you can't recall a specific detail. What matters most is your eagerness to dive into learning and filling those knowledge gaps.

6. Case study questions (for consulting roles)

A case study is where you're given a fictional business problem and asked to analyse it and suggest solutions. It helps the interviewer see how you solve problems and think critically, showing if you're a good fit for a consulting role.

Here are two case study questions that grads shared with us.

'How many tyre valves are there in China?'

This question is a classic. We actually break this down into two separate guides: 

Case study #9: Market size for tyres

Case study #10: Market size in China

For more tips on case studies, check out our guide to asking the right questions and a compilation of our best advice on cracking case interviews.

'What are the considerations you would need to take into account when your client needs to move from one IT platform to a different one?'

If you're applying to a tech consulting role, you'll likely be given a case study specific to that.

Weak response

Just transfer all the data to the new platform and make sure everyone knows how to use it. The cost shouldn’t be much of an issue if the platform is better. Just get IT to handle the technical stuff and it should be fine.

Strong response

If a client were moving from one platform to another, I would take into account:

Compatibility and integration: First up, we need to make sure the new platform is a good fit with our current tech. It's like checking if all our existing software and hardware will work smoothly with it.

Data migration: Moving our data is a big deal. We've got to do it carefully to avoid losing any important info. It's not just about moving it; it's making sure it lands safely and correctly on the new platform.

User training and support: We can’t forget about the people using the system. Everyone needs to know how to use the new platform, right? So, we’ll set up some training and support to help everyone get up to speed.

Cost implications: Let's talk money. Switching platforms isn't just about the purchase price. We have to think about the costs of moving data, training our team, and maybe even some downtime.

Security and compliance: Super important! The new platform must keep our data safe and meet all those legal and industry standards. No cutting corners here.

Scalability and future needs: Lastly, we’ve got to think long-term. Will this new platform grow with us? We need something that’s not just good for now, but for the future as our needs change.

We recommend checking out this tech consulting playlist on Youtube to prepare for more questions like this.