What Is a Case Interview? A Consultant's Guide

Are you preparing for a consulting interview? Have you ever wondered what is a case interview and why it's so important?

In his book Case Interview Secrets, Victor Cheng demystifies the case interview process. You'll learn about the different types of case interviews, what companies are looking for, and how to prepare effectively.

Keep reading to discover the key insights that could help you ace your next case interview and land your dream consulting job.

What Is a Case Interview?

If you're wondering "what is a case interview," it's a crucial part of the hiring process for consulting firms. This unique interview style is designed to evaluate your analytical skills and problem-solving abilities. During a case interview, you'll be presented with a business scenario or problem and asked to work through it, demonstrating your thought process and ability to think on your feet.

But why do companies use case interviews? Simply put, they're trying to assess how well you'd perform in real-world consulting situations. Firms like McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) are looking for candidates who can independently tackle complex client issues.

Types of Case Interviews

There are several types of case interviews you might encounter:

1. Candidate-led cases: In these, you're expected to take the initiative and drive the problem-solving process. You'll need to ask the right questions, gather relevant information, and choose an appropriate approach to analyze the problem.

2. Interviewer-led cases: These follow a more structured format, with the interviewer guiding you through distinct stages. You'll typically start with an opening premise, develop a problem-solving structure, conduct analysis, answer business acumen questions, and finally synthesize your findings.

3. Group case interviews: Some firms, like McKinsey, use group interviews to assess your teamwork and interpersonal skills. You'll need to collaborate effectively with other candidates while diplomatically steering discussions.

4. Presentation-style cases: These focus on your ability to clearly demonstrate analytical thinking and provide sound recommendations. You might be asked to create and present slides summarizing your analysis and recommendations.

What Companies Are Looking For

When you're in a case interview, the company is assessing several key skills:

1. Analytical thinking: Can you break down complex problems and analyze them systematically?

2. Problem-solving: Are you able to develop and test hypotheses effectively?

3. Numerical skills: Can you perform calculations and make sound numerical estimates under pressure?

4. Communication: Are you able to clearly articulate complex ideas?

5. Client interaction: Can you build rapport and handle client relationships professionally?

6. Performance under pressure: How well do you maintain your composure and performance in stressful situations?

Common Case Interview Frameworks

To tackle case interviews effectively, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with some common frameworks:

1. Issue trees: These help you systematically organize problems and thoroughly evaluate different options.

2. Business situation analysis: This framework helps you break down the strategic elements of a company's issue.

3. Drill-down analysis: This involves thoroughly examining each component of the issue tree to identify root causes.

Remember, while frameworks are useful, it's important not to rigidly apply them without considering their relevance to the specific case at hand.

Preparing for Case Interviews

Successful preparation for case interviews requires dedication and practice. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

1. Practice consistently: Dedicate significant time (50-100 hours or more) to case interview preparation. Regular practice helps develop the disciplined habits necessary for consistent performance.

2. Develop your analytical thinking: Focus on cultivating a consultant's analytical thought process, not just memorizing information.

3. Work on your math skills: Practice performing calculations quickly and accurately. There are online tools available to help you improve your proficiency with large numbers.

4. Study real cases: Listen to recordings of real case interviews with expert commentary to understand what makes a strong performance.

5. Find a practice partner: Use online platforms to connect with other aspiring consultants for live practice sessions.

6. Consider coaching: If possible, seek personalized coaching from experienced professionals for tailored feedback on your skills.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

As you prepare, be aware of these common pitfalls:

1. Insufficient hypothesis development: Make sure you're developing clear, testable hypotheses to guide your analysis.

2. Poor problem structuring: Ensure your approach to breaking down the problem is logical and comprehensive.

3. Mathematical errors: Practice your mental math to avoid mistakes under pressure.

4. Incomplete analysis: Don't rush to conclusions without thoroughly examining all aspects of the problem.

5. Overemphasis on quantitative aspects: Remember to consider qualitative factors and the client's perspective as well.

By understanding what case interviews are, why companies use them, and how to prepare effectively, you'll be well-equipped to tackle this challenging but crucial part of the consulting recruitment process. Remember, success in case interviews comes down to consistent practice, analytical thinking, and clear communication.