The case interview method is used by several types of organisations to recruit for consulting and strategy roles
All the major consulting firms, like McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), and Bain & Company use a rigorous multi-stage interview process, including case interviews.
Many investment banks incorporate case interviews into their recruitment process, particularly for positions in investment banking, private equity, and corporate finance.
Strategy firms, like Oliver Wyman and Deloitte which focus on assisting companies with long-term planning and growth strategies, often employ case interviews to evaluate candidates' analytical thinking, strategic mindset, and problem-solving capabilities.
Technology companies such as Google, Amazon, and Microsoft may incorporate case interviews into their recruitment process, particularly for roles with a strong emphasis on data analysis and problem-solving, to select candidates who can solve complex problems systematically.
Other companies may also use the case interview or case study method as part of their recruitment process. If you are targeting an analytical role in a competitive industry, gaining practice in this method will help you develop the skills to succeed.
Case interviews take various formats
In a case interview, you will be presented with a business case and asked to provide a solution to the business problem in real time. This can take any of the following formats:
Individual, Verbal
You are presented with a problem statement and expected to break down the issue, probe for data and additional information, and drive the overall discussion.
Individual, Written
A broad range of information or data, as well as a brief, will be provided to you prior to the interview. On the day of the assessment, you will have time to prepare and present your recommendations in person, usually accompanied by a deck of slides.
Group Case
You will be assigned to a group and given a case with some time to prepare, discuss within the group, and present recommendations to the interview panel.
What is being tested?
| Personal Attributes |
Organizational/Industry Related
|
- Quantitative and logical reasoning
- Structuring problems and breaking them down into solvable parts
- Clear, concise and effective communication skills
- Poise, composure, intellectual curiosity and the ability to cope with challenging questions
- Ability to think on your feet
|
- Overall fit with the organisation
- Business acumen and fundamentals, industry awareness
- How well you work with a team, in the case of group case interviews
|
How to prepare for case interviews
It is essential to practice applying the most used business frameworks to guide your thinking process. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Porter’s Five Forces — Threats to New Entrants, Competitive Dynamics, Supplier Power, Buyer Power, Threat of Substitutes
- 3 “Cs” — Company, Competitors, Customers
- 4 Ps — Product, Price, Promotion, Placement
- SWOT Analysis — Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
- BCG Growth Matrix — Market Share Vs Growth
To practise for case interviews, NUS students can apply for access to CaseCoach via this sign up link.