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Four Basic Steps to Tackle the Case Interview

Cracking a case can be a daunting task. For a career in consulting, you should strive to be ambitious, passionate and determined.

The case study interview is a common way for consulting firms to screen candidates because it allows them to evaluate multiple inter-related consulting skills including data analysis, analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, active listening skills, communication skills, real-time judgement and decision making, and understanding of core business concepts.

As you prepare for your next consulting case interview, here are 4 quick tips that will help you to tackle any case.

1. Define and Understand the Problem

Make sure you understand the question. Listen carefully to the information given upfront and summarise the problem. Take notes if it helps you.

Summarise the problem in question and confirm the scope. Understand the problem in context by thinking about what you know already about the industry and current trends.

Take your time to evaluate the information given and ask any clarifying questions as needed.

Remember, the interviewer may have additional information that they will only share if you ask!

2. Generate a Hypothesis and Structure Your Approach

Formulate an initial hypothesis. Work out what you will need to know in order to test your hypothesis and where you may need to make adjustments.

Think about how you are going to solve the problem before diving in. Create a structure to guide your thinking. Identify key issues and prioritise.

Remember, while there are many frameworks available to help you structure business case problems, don’t limit yourself to a predefined framework. Adapt your own framework to the situation. Be creative!

3. Analyse the Problem

What information do you need to test your hypothesis? Gather the relevant data, and ask clarifying questions to fill in gaps in your thinking.

Develop, test and refine your assumptions. Check to ensure your calculations make sense. Hone in on the solution.

Be prepared to adapt. How would you get the data in a real case? Don’t be afraid of maths!

4. Deliver Recommendations

Remember the original question or case problem. Synthesize your findings and draw out the key facts. Deliver recommendations supported by your findings.

When delivering your recommendations don’t just repeat your findings. Ask yourself, “so what?” Explain the meaning and implications of your conclusions.

Take possible limitations into account. Suggest next steps or further lines of enquiry.

Finally, breathe … you’re done!

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, practice, practice, practice! Be open and communicate with the interviewer throughout. Remember, they want to know what goes on in your mind – how you think through, summarise and present information! Make sure to plan your work, explain your thinking out loud, and lead the interviewer towards an answer!

To further excel as a candidate, take time to familiarise yourself with the consulting role and why it motivates you. Utilise anyone you know who works at the consulting firm to discover more. Prepare intelligent questions. Research the position, the department, the business plan, the organisational structure, challenges, and key skills that the firm values. Know the firm in and out!

Navya Sethi is currently pursuing BSc (Hons) in Business Management from King’s College London. She works as a Consultant for 180 Degrees Consulting KCL and Performance Analyst for King’s Business Club. She is passionate about solving problems for a living and making a positive difference to the community.

Image: Unsplash

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