The Case Interview
Basics of Interviewing and How to Succeed
Agenda
Case vs. Behavioral Interview 10 minutes
Differences, Preparation Required
Case Interview Overview 10 minutes
Structure, Examples, Group Discussion
Case Interview Practice 30 minutes
Review & Exercises / Q& A 10 minutes
Behavioral vs. Case Interviews
Behavioral Interviews
Many questions within time period. Layers of subjectivity exist.
Face to face with interviewer
Able to use life experiences for answers
Case Interviews
Usually 1 – 2 cases with few follow-on questions. Focuses on intellectual rigor.
May be asked to read case and prepare answer in front of interviewer or written as a test
Facts are presented and should be basis for recommendation
The Case Interview
Case Interviews are used to evaluate the interviewee’s analytical and problem-solving skills. They are intended to measure the ability for the interviewee to communicate with and recommend a potential solution in a client, project, or team situation.
A clear understanding of a methodology or approach is needed to prepare a thoughtful discussion of the business issue. The key is to demonstrate understanding of the issue or questions presented in the case in an energetic, creative, and logical manner.
Case Interview Preparation
Need to be abreast of the current business trends and events
Understand the terminology of the company, industry, or area
Use business / MBA course areas to analyze the case problem
Approach to the Case Interview
Bain & Company says:
Your answer should reflect structured thinking in which you:
Break down the problem
Focus on prioritizing which areas to investigate
Demonstrate clear analytical evidence based on assumptions, math, logic
Make an actual recommendation
Recommendations should be actions designed to generate results, not merely academic answers
Case Interview – Short Examples
You are consulting for a major winery in Napa Valley. They mainly produce and distribute a mid-priced sparkling wine and 2 types of red wine (Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon). Every year their profits are shrinking. What could be the cause of this?
You are consulting for one of the largest and fastest growing supermarket chains in the country. This chain is considering opening its own bank branches in its supermarket locations. What is your advice?
Your client is a small regional bank in the . They are considering closing more and more branch locations, and diverting their resources to telephone and internet banking facilities. Should they implement this strategy? What are some of the basic areas they need to research if this strategy is recommended?
Do your Homework!
Practice case interviewing and use the following:
State the Problem or Issue
Analyze the alternatives. Ask clarifying questions.
Make a recommendation or potential solution
Check out these websites for interactive cases:
Bain & Company
McKinsey & Company
