Case Interviews

While case interviews used to be predominantly used by management consulting firms, they are now being used more broadly across a variety of industries and roles. Just like technical interviews, all case interviews are not created equally. The case interview question is generally either a business problem, estimating exercise, arithmetic or logic problem. Case interviews are designed to make you think on your toes and use reason and common sense. Most cases don’t have a specific answer that you are expected to give; instead, the interviewer is looking for you to demonstrate a thought process that is both analytical and creative.

A scenario to gauge the general business knowledge of candidates and their ability to logically apply this knowledge. It could focus on profit/loss, organizational structure, pricing or growth strategy, or marketing.

▪ Example 1: “An airline finds that, while its revenues are high, the company is still operating at a loss. What is going on?”

▪ Example 2: "What would customers be willing to pay if Facebook shifted to a subscription model?"

▪ Example 3: "Our client is thinking of acquiring a company that makes a certain type of medical device; what do they need to consider in making their decision?“

Estimation questions that require the use of logical deduction and general statistical information to estimate some number or size.

▪ Example 1: "How many airplanes leave from Boston's Logan Airport on Monday?"

▪ Example 2: "How many lightbulbs are there in Manhattan?"

▪ Example 3: "Are there more iPhones in operation in the U.S. or in China?"

These serve to see how well you think on your feet and gauge creativity and problem-solving skills.

▪ Example 1: "You have a 3-gallon bucket and a 5-gallon bucket. How do you measure out exactly four gallons?

▪ Example 2: "How much does the Starbucks in Times Square bring in, in annual revenue?"

▪ Example 3: "Why are manhole covers round?"

WHAT INTERVIEWERS ARE LOOKING FOR

▪ Logical and analytical reasoning

▪ Conceptual problem-solving

▪ Clear and influential communication

▪ Creativity / flexibility

▪ Poise and confidence under pressure

▪ Positive attitude

ARE NOT

▪ Not meant to intimidate students

▪ Not a math test

▪ Not only about getting the ‘right’ answer

▪ Not easy…practice is a MUST

▪ Not impossible