Case Leadership

You've already learned the basics of case cracking, but now it's time to focus on how to take charge and steer the interview like a pro. Leading a case is all about showcasing your problem-solving skills, structuring your thoughts, and confidently guiding the discussion. Ready to master this crucial skill? Let's get into it!

What's the Deal with Candidate-Led Interviews?

First things first, what even is a candidate-led interview? In the consulting industry, particularly in top firms like BCG, Bain, and Roland Berger you’ll often face this type of interview. Essentially, you, the candidate, are in the driver's seat. Your job is to guide the interviewer through your thought process as you solve a business problem. It’s a bit like being the Sherlock Holmes of business – minus the deerstalker hat.

Candidate-led case interviews are all about seeing if you've got that consulting mojo. The interviewers aren't just testing your problem-solving skills; they want to see how you think on your feet, structure a mess of information into a coherent plan, and communicate your ideas like a pro. They’re looking to see if you can break down tough problems, stay calm under pressure, and clearly explain your thinking. And, of course, they’re also sizing up whether you’d be a good fit with the team. So, show off your skills and be yourself!

How Can You Demonstrate Case Leadership in Three Simple Steps?

Don’t worry, taking on case leadership is not as complicated as it sounds. In fact, you can demonstrate case leadership in just three simple steps. Ready to impress your interviewers? Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Create a Strong Structure to Solve Your Case.

The moment your interviewer tells you the case, it’s game on. This is your chance to show that you’re not just a passive participant, but a leader who’s ready to take control. Start by clarifying the problem. Ask key questions that show you’re thinking critically about the issue at hand. What exactly is the client’s goal? What constraints are you working with? Before you move on with creating your structure, make sure you have all the information you need to understand and solve the case. While doing so, don’t get lost in too many details, but prioritize the aspects you really need to make valid assumptions and solve the problem.

Once you’ve got a clear understanding of the case, set the stage with a structured plan of how to address it. Outline how you’re going to approach the case, breaking it down into manageable steps. The MECE framework is your new best friend. Split the problem into distinct buckets that cover all possible areas without overlapping. This isn’t just about impressing your interviewer with your organization skills (though it definitely helps); it’s about showing that you can lead a project from start to finish with confidence and clarity.

Sketch out your structure on a sheet of paper – giving your thoughts a clear roadmap. By laying out your framework visually, you create a reference point that keeps you focused and on track throughout the discussion. Plus, it shows the interviewer that you’ve got a strategic approach and aren’t just winging it. So, grab that pen, map out your plan, and use it to guide the conversation like a pro. It’s a small step that can make a big impact!

👉 Structuring is a skill you can learn. Our structuring drills can be a good starting point.

Step 2: Work Through Your Structure and Keep Track of Your Progress at All Times.

Once you’ve nailed down your structure, it’s time to dive into the analysis. But remember, you’re not just solving the case — you’re leading it. This means you need to be both the strategist and the executor. As you work through each step of your plan, keep the bigger picture in mind. Continuously refer back to your framework to ensure you’re on track. This will help you maintain a clear and logical flow in your analysis, which is key to demonstrating strong case leadership.

As you analyze each component of the case, make sure to communicate your thought process clearly. Explain why you’re focusing on certain areas and how each piece of analysis ties back to solving the client’s problem. This not only shows your analytical skills but also highlights your ability to connect the dots and see the broader implications of your findings.

Don’t be afraid to adjust your structure if new information arises. Being flexible and adaptable is just as important as being organized. If something unexpected comes up, acknowledge it, reassess your plan, and explain why you’re making changes. This shows that you’re not just sticking to a rigid plan, but are actively engaging with the problem and thinking critically about the best way to solve it.

💡 Prep Tip: Case leadership cannot be practiced by yourself. Conduct mock interviews with peers or book a session with a coach to receive personal feedback on your performance and get better and better.

Step 3: Synthesize Your Findings and Make a Strong Recommendation.

The final step in leading a case interview is pulling everything together and delivering a clear, concise recommendation. This is where you prove that you can not only analyze a problem but also translate your insights into actionable advice. After working through your structure and gathering all the necessary data, take a step back and synthesize your findings. What does the data tell you? What are the key insights? And most importantly, how do they impact the client’s goals?

When making your recommendation, lead with your answer first—be clear and confident right from the start. Begin by directly stating your recommendation, then follow up with a brief summary of the key points that support your conclusion. This approach not only demonstrates your decisiveness but also aligns with the consulting practice of delivering solutions upfront. Ensure that your recommendation is specific, actionable, and closely aligned with the client’s objectives. Remember, consulting is about providing clear, impactful advice, so your solution should be both practical and immediately implementable.

If there are any risks or uncertainties, don’t shy away from discussing them. A strong case leader is one who acknowledges potential challenges and proactively addresses them. Offer suggestions on how the client can mitigate these risks or present alternative solutions if necessary. This shows that you’re thinking holistically about the problem and are prepared to support your client through any obstacles.

Wrapping It Up: Be the Leader You’d Want on Your Team.

Mastering case leadership is all about taking charge of the interview and guiding it with confidence. By creating a solid structure, working through it methodically, and delivering a strong recommendation, you’ll not only impress your interviewer but also demonstrate that you have what it takes to succeed in a consulting role.

Remember, case interviews are as much about showing how you think as they are about getting the right answer. It’s about demonstrating that you can take a complex problem, break it down, and lead the discussion. So, as you prepare for your next interview, focus on these essential leadership skills. With practice and the right mindset, you’ll be able to leave a lasting impression on your interviewers.

👉 You are looking for candidate-led cases to practice with? Here are some examples.