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Interview Prep for First-Time Consultants: Tips to Impress Your Project Client

Landing an interview as a consultant is exciting, but this isn’t your typical job interview. When applying for a role as a consultant, you'll typically interview with the consultancy itself - like Vantage Point - and also interview with the consultancy's end client, who you'll be working with on a day-to-day basis. You'll be assessed on whether you can represent the consultancy's brand and add value to the client and the project team from day one.

Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned professional stepping into consulting for the first time, preparation is key. Here’s a practical guide to help you stand out and make a positive and lasting impression.

Why Client Interviews Matter

Consultancy client interviews are about fit and trust. The client wants to know:

  • Can you adapt quickly to their environment?
  • Do you understand their business and challenges?
  • Are you a strong ambassador for the consultancy that the client trusts?

Preparation is your competitive edge. Let’s break it down into five key steps.

Pre-interview checklist 2

1. Craft your 60-second pitch

Your introduction sets the tone. In a client interview, you need to communicate confidence, clarity, and relevance - fast.

What to include:

  • Who you are and your key strengths (e.g., analytical, detail-oriented, proactive).
  • Your academic background, if you have a degree or Masters, and why you chose it.
  • Why you’re passionate about financial services, professional services, or technology (this is particularly important if you have limited industry experience).
  • Your relevant experience and transferable skills, with examlples of how you've practised and honed them.
  • A personal interest or two to show your personality beyond work.

Pro Tip:

  • Practice in full interview attire and record yourself.
  • Avoid filler words like “um” or “kind of.”
  • Smile - it changes your tone and makes you sound more confident.


Woman presenting

2. Know the role, the client, and their expectations

Clients want consultants who are interested in their business and can hit the ground running.

Do your homework:

  • Role

    Review the job description and any fact sheets you've gotten hold of. Understand the key responsibilities, skills, and measurable outcomes.

  • Client

    Research their mission, size, locations, recent news, and industry trends that might be impacting them. Use LinkedIn to learn about your interviewer’s background. 

  • Expectations

    Clients value enthusiasm, problem-solving, attention to detail, and a “can-do” attitude. Be ready to share examples from school, university projects, volunteering, or part-time jobs, that demonstrate these traits. 

Soft skills to highlight:

  • Problem-solving growth mindset

  • Attention to detail

  • Teamwork and communication

  • Proactivity and willingness to learn

Pro Tip: If you don’t know an answer during the interview, say: 

“I’m not sure at the moment, but I’d be eager to learn this before starting the role.”

This shows honesty and a growth mindset.

Woman working

3. Prepare smart questions that impress

When the interviewer asks, “Do you have any questions?” - this is your chance to shine. Thoughtful questions show curiosity and strategic thinking.

Examples:

  • “What are the biggest challenges someone in this role would face in the first 90 days?”
  • “How does this role contribute to the wider objectives of the team or division?”
  • “What qualities make someone successful in this team?”

Pro Tip:

  • Prepare a rationale for why you're asking each question, and a follow-up.
  • Avoid questions about the company you could easily Google.
  • Aim for at least one unique question that shows deeper thinking.

Hiring manager and candidate in interview

4. Master the art of a closing with impact

The close is your final opportunity to leave a positive impression.

Sample closing statement:

“Thank you for your time today. I appreciate learning more about the role and your insights on the team. I’m even more excited about the opportunity and look forward to hearing from you soon.”

Top Tip: Even if the interview didn’t go perfectly, a strong close can help you recover and leave the client with confidence in your professionalism and ability to handle pressure.

Candidate is successful at her interview

5. Nail the logistics

Whether virtual or in-person, logistics matter.

  • Virtual

     Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection at least 30 minutes before the start time. 

  • In-person

    Plan two routes, check for travel disruptions, and aim to arrive 20 minutes early. Use Google Maps and Street View to familiarise yourself with the location. 

Pro Tip: Before the interview, take five minutes to breathe deeply and visualise success. Confidence starts with mindset.

Women smiling at work

 

Your Interview Prep Checklist

  • Craft your 60-second pitch

  • Know the role, the client, and their expectations

  • Prepare smart questions that impress

  • Master the art of closing with impact

  • Nail the logistics

 

Final Thoughts

Client interviews are about more than technical skills; they’re about trust, professionalism, and the ability to integrate seamlessly into a team. With preparation, you can show how your skills will complement their team, so they’ll see you as a partner in their success.