The case interview is a crucial component of the hiring process at top consulting firms. It simulates the real-world challenges consultants face and evaluates candidates across several key dimensions. To excel, candidates must showcase their problem-solving skills, personal attributes, and communication abilities. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare.
What Are Interviewers Looking For?
When assessing a candidate, interviewers ask themselves three core questions:
- Can they solve the problem? This evaluates your analytical and structured problem-solving skills.
- Can they get things done? Your personal drive, work ethic, and ability to handle challenges come into play.
- Can they represent the firm? Presence, communication skills, and professionalism are critical in consulting, as you'll often work directly with clients.
Ultimately, the interviewer is deciding: “Would I want this candidate on my team?”
The Case Interview Process
The case interview typically follows a structured format designed to mimic a real consulting engagement:
- The Brief: The interviewer begins by presenting a scenario, often based on an actual client problem.
- Clarifying Questions: You get an opportunity to ask questions to ensure you understand the case.
- Structured Approach: After clarifications, you’re encouraged to take a moment (often 60 seconds) to reflect and suggest a structured plan for tackling the problem.
- Collaborative Problem-Solving: The interviewer works with you through the case, sharing data or challenges. Together, you analyze the situation, test hypotheses, and progress toward a solution.
- Conclusion: You wrap up the interview by summarizing your findings and making a clear, actionable recommendation.
The case interview isn’t just a test; it’s a conversation that mirrors the day-to-day problem-solving dynamics of consulting teams.
Case Interview Styles
Case interviews are generally conducted in two styles: Interviewer-Led and Candidate-Led.
- Interviewer-Led: In this style, the candidate suggests logical next steps, but the interviewer guides the discussion with targeted questions and provides additional data or direction when needed.
- Candidate-Led: Here, you take the reins, driving the analysis and deciding when to ask for more information. You’ll need to proactively share your thought process and insights.
Regardless of the format, the fundamental principle remains the same: always suggest logical next steps to demonstrate structured thinking and initiative.
Types of Case Questions
Case interviews can involve a wide variety of problems, such as:
- How can an airline increase its profitability?
- Should a car manufacturer launch a self-driving truck?
- What should a hotel chain’s five-year strategy look like?
- Should a biotech firm outsource its R&D?
- How can a telecom company reduce call-center costs?
- How should a bank respond to new regulations?
- What opportunities can artificial intelligence unlock for a logistics company?
- How can a non-profit boost its donations?
- Should a university provide free online courses?
- What strategies can address homelessness in a major city like London?
Each question requires a tailored, data-driven approach, but they all assess your ability to break down complex problems into actionable solutions.
Key Dimensions of Assessment
Success in a case interview hinges on excelling in several dimensions, grouped under Problem-Solving and General Impression:
Problem-Solving
- Case Leadership: Navigate the case confidently and stay focused on the goal without veering off track.
- Synthesis: Deliver a clear, structured recommendation supported by evidence. Follow up with actionable next steps.
- Creativity: Generate diverse ideas in a logical and organized manner.
- Judgment and Insights: Use findings to craft meaningful recommendations. Propose reasonable hypotheses and offer impactful insights.
- Numeracy: Approach quantitative problems with precision, clarity, and speed. Translate numbers into actionable conclusions.
- Structuring: Break down the problem into a comprehensive set of drivers and propose a systematic problem-solving approach.
General Impression
- Communication: Speak clearly, concisely, and with purpose. Present your conclusions before diving into details, and use visuals effectively when needed.
- Professionalism and Presence: Show confidence, maintain a positive demeanor, and engage authentically. Build rapport and exhibit credibility throughout the conversation.
Preparing to Succeed
Case interviews are challenging, but with preparation, you can stand out. Practice structuring problems, performing quick calculations, and presenting your thoughts clearly. Engage in mock interviews to get comfortable with both interviewer-led and candidate-led formats.
Remember, the case interview isn’t just about solving the problem—it’s about demonstrating that you can think like a consultant, communicate effectively, and bring value to the team.
At mbb.ai, we offer comprehensive resources and business cases designed to help you master every aspect of a consulting interview. From problem-solving exercises to realistic mock cases, we ensure you practice in the most effective way possible. Leverage our tools to gain the confidence and skills you need to succeed.
By focusing on the dimensions above and utilizing the right preparation tools, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate any case interview and leave a lasting impression on your interviewer.