How to excel in a case interview
By Decker Walker
For most fresh graduates, to be able to join top consulting firms like McKinsey and BCG is a dream. However, it is not uncommon to see applicants struggle in case interviews because of insufficient preparation.
So what to expect during a case interview? The interviews usually follow a very specific format. In the first 10 to 15 minutes, interviewers will ask candidates about his/her personal background and many other general experience questions. Then, there will be a 20 to 30 minute case study session in which candidates will be presented a real-life business problem and expected to work through the problem (usually with data) to reach a "solution". Typically candidates are given two cases in the first round of interviews and three in the second round. The last 5 to 10 minutes is usually a Q&A session for candidates to ask questions. It is very important to familiarize yourself with the process and practice as much as possible.
Although case performance is not the sole metric of evaluation, it helps employers gain insights into how candidates might attack a business issue and assess their problem-solving capabilities, analytics and business judgement. Therefore, to do well on the case, the interviewer is looking for you to provide a clear structure for your analysis, prioritize the components of the problem, listen and use relevant information to develop a clear recommendation. Candidates are expected to exhibit outstanding performances in three major categories: effectiveness and impact (self-motivated and tenacious, a leader and tem player, has substance, backs up claims, actively pursues self-development, drives to action, and delivers results), problem solving and insight (structures the problem, resolves ambiguity, shows business judgement, prioritizes, rigorous, accurate, quantitatively sound, curious, creative, goes beyond obvious, synthesizes, develops conclusions), communication and presence (projects self-assurance, credibility, communicates concisely effectively, actively listens, builds relationships of trust). There is no correct answer, and it is how you think that matters.
To excel in case interviews, candidates should practise as much as possible with a friend or family. Always listen carefully to what is asked and pause even if you know the answer. Structure and frameworks are pivotal. Take a stance and give evidence for why. Be concise, and try to tell the interviewer your answer in 30 seconds. Finally, be confident.
Decker Walker, is one of the HAMBSON Independent Advisors. He is consultant in Boston Consulting Group, and currently giving consultancy in Boston. He was Rhodes Scholar, and graduated from Oxford University with master degree. In HAMBSON, Decker is professional and specialized in strategy consulting.