What Is the Case Interview?
The case interview is an example of a real business problem based on your interviewer's past
work experiences. The problems you will encounter are not designed to be brainteasers, or
theoretical problems designed to stump you, but rather to reflect the challenges that our clients
face. We love this format because we get to discuss cases based on our own client work.
All consulting role candidates (and some non-consulting roles) can expect a case interview,
regardless of which office they apply to.
What We Look For
The approach you take to solving a problem
How analytical and creative your thinking is
Your usage of data to quantify and make your recommendations
Your communication skills in conveying your ideas
How you would suggest implementing these proposals
Tips for Nailing Your Interview
When preparing for your interview, keep these suggestions in mind:
Make it a business discussion, not an interview. Approach your interview as a
thoughtful and insightful conversation that demonstrates your business judgment.
Drive to the answer. Focus on the question you are trying to answer.
Be pragmatic. Anticipate concerns your recommendation may raise. Is it realistic and
scalable? What are the risks, and how can they be overcome?
Demonstrate your communication and people skills. Project your confidence, energy
and interest, and demonstrate how you might interact with future clients and colleagues.
Listen. Avoid writing everything down. Focus on understanding the problem and begin
forming your own hypotheses. If you get stuck, pay attention to the clues—your
interviewer is trying to coach you.
Don't force-fit frameworks. Frameworks incorporate concepts you should know. Show
your interviewer you can apply these to the specifics of the business issue and industry.
Tell the interviewer what you are thinking. Explain your thought process as you ask
questions. This way your interviewer will know you have a plan.
Expect math. Be prepared to both set up the analytics and do the math.
Practice.
Relax.