The case interview is a format in which you, the interviewee, are given a business problem or a brain teaser to solve. Cases have gotten quite the reputation for being intense, quant-heavy, and just downright scary. But they don’t have to be—not the scary part, at least. We spoke with recruiters at top consulting firms to learn what really makes an interviewee “ace the case.” And while case interviews were once exclusively the domain of aspiring consultants, they’re now popping up everywhere from tech companies to NGOs. So, no matter where you interview, use these tips to sail on through.
- ASK QUESTIONS: In the beginning, you’ll typically be given important information about your case. Listen to it and take notes. And when the interviewer asks if you have any questions before proceeding—the answer is “yes”. First, summarize the situation and problem at hand, and ask clarifying questions if something was unclear (e.g., if there was a word you didn’t understand). This will not only highlight your listening skills, it’ll let you double-check that you understand the case that you’re about to start solving.
- Engage Your interviewer: Asking questions is also a great way to build a rapport with your interviewer from the start. Think of the case not as a test, but as a conversation through which you need to solve a problem.
- Structure, Structure, Structure: A good structure is really the key to doing well with a case. It’s more important than your answer and it’s more important than the knowledge you bring in—it’s your chance to show “how you think.”
- Recognize Case Archetypes: Now, here’s a secret: There are really only a handful of case “types” that you will be given. They include entering a new market, developing a new product, growth strategies, pricing strategies, starting a new business, increasing profitability (or increasing sales or reducing costs), and acquiring a company.
- Practice your numbers: Many people freeze up on the quant section. And the best advice here is: The more you practice, the easier it will get.
- Keep up with industries: You never know what industry the case you’re given will focus on. However, the more relevant you can make your questions and answers to the industry, the better.
- Practice-and grub a buddy: Read through cases yourself, do cases with your friends, and try out the cases on a company’s website.
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Article written by Alex Cavoulacos
