I am joining a management consultancy after 4 years in Industry. I will be having some client interview for projects in FS.Can anyone tell me what happens during these interviews? Are these pretty formal or casual?If I get turned down by a client, would that be a bad impression? what should I do so that doesnt happen ?Thanks lovely people

Are you sure they didn't mean that YOU will be the one doing the interviews? And that when the say "interviews", they actually mean "information gathering meetings" as opposed to cross-examining someone about their CV?If however they really do mean that the client wants to interview you (as a junior member of the team) personally, then that must be one b*stard of a client to work for!

done these on both sides of the fence. common in FS and most rigorous in capital markets - this industry wants content not just generic bodies, and is stuffed full of ex consultans who know all the wheezes; the client will want to know you understand the subject domain in depth, so research. impact of getting turned down depends on whether your firm knew they were chancing their arm putting you up for it.. don't bullsh*t in the interview, just demonstrate how you can add value

I very much agree with Billium. thats what I have been told by other people.cynic...its interviews with clients personally who want to hire some consultant. I have been told its rigorous in FS. I have been told to go to few banks where the clients want to interview me. I am trying to understand the scope, seriousness and expectations of these.I know people in public sector where there is no such thing as interview and in case if there is one it is discussing weather over coffee. But ideas on private sectore are welcome

Uhh, looking back at your original questions, it looks like you've answered them yourself (other than the first one, for which I suggest you use your brain and think about why you're there).

Try working for a small consultancy then, where every proposal is followed by an interview or presentation.It you have no brand to hide behind, it is the quality of the delivery team that dictates whether you win the work.