Case Interview

CASE INTERVIEWS

Case interviews are a style/type of interview that is used extensively by the consulting industry but has become more frequently utilized by additional industries and across various types of positions in recent years. 

WHAT IS A CASE INTERVIEW?

The case interview is a scenario-based, problem solving activity that may be one question as part of a larger interview or an extended standalone interview.  There are a variety of question types and styles, from brain teasers to full business cases, that allow the interviewer to evaluate one or more of the following:

• Problem Solving Skills

  • How well do you narrow down a problem?

  • Do you ask pertinent clarifying questions when appropriate?

  • Do you identify and extract the important issues related to the problem?

  • Do you use a constructive framework / approach to solve the program and arrive at a logical conclusion?

  • Is your thinking pragmatic, and logical?

• Analytical Skills

  • Do you follow a logical line of reasoning?

  • Are your responses well structured?

  • Can you demonstrate strong analytical capabilities and make prompt calculations?

  • Are you able to think quickly and arrive at a logical conclusion based upon analysis of the information provided?

  • Do you recognize hints that the interviewer offers to keep you on the right track (if applicable)?

• Communication Skills

  • Do you think before you speak? 

  • Do you express yourself clearly?

  • Are you a good listener?

  • Can you adapt to the information you are given?

  • Can you explain and defend your ideas?

WHAT ARE INTERVIEWERS LOOKING FOR?

The purpose is not necessarily to find the correct solution to the scenario, but for you to demonstrate the steps you take to solve the given problem.  The interviewer is assessing the rationale behind your strategy and your ability to articulate your thought process (i.e. ability to verbalize your thoughts) as well as your logical reasoning skills.

For examples of various case interview questions and additional preparation resources, review the below case interview prep resources:

• Prep for a Case Interview Article