Mastering Group Interviews in Consulting: What to Expect

So, you’ve got a consulting interview coming up, and there’s a catch—you’re not going to be alone. Group interviews are a common part of the consulting recruitment process, and they can be a bit intimidating if you’ve never experienced one before.

But don’t worry! In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about group interviews in consulting, including why they’re used, what skills they test, and how you can prepare to stand out. 🔎

What Are Group Interviews, and When Are They Used?

First things first—what exactly is a group interview? Unlike a traditional one-on-one interview, a group interview involves several candidates (usually between 4 and 8) being interviewed simultaneously. You’ll be working alongside (and sometimes competing against) other applicants in a series of exercises, discussions, or case studies. This format is more common during early rounds of the interview process, often at assessment centers or recruitment events.

Why Do Consulting Firms Use Group Interviews?

Because consulting is all about teamwork. In a real-world consulting project, you’re not just working alone; you’re collaborating with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. A group interview lets firms see how you function in a team setting. Are you a good communicator? Can you lead when needed, but also step back and listen? How do you handle disagreements? These are all things that a one-on-one interview can’t reveal.

What Do Group Interviews Test?

The whole point of a group interview is to see how you operate in a group dynamic. Let’s break down some of the key skills that consulting firms are looking for:

1. Teamwork and Collaboration: How well do you work with others? Consulting firms want to see candidates who can collaborate effectively, whether that means brainstorming together or dividing tasks efficiently. They’re looking for people who can build on others’ ideas, not just push their own agenda.
2. Communication Skills: This goes beyond just speaking clearly. It’s about knowing when to speak and when to listen. Can you get your point across concisely without dominating the conversation? Can you summarize others’ points accurately? These are crucial skills in consulting.
3. Problem-Solving: Consulting is all about solving complex problems. During a group interview, you might be given a case study or a scenario to work through as a team. Firms want to see how you approach the problem, how you analyze information, and how you work under pressure.
4. Leadership: Even though it’s a group setting, consulting firms are always on the lookout for leadership potential. This doesn’t mean you need to take over the entire discussion, but it’s important to show initiative, help guide the team, and ensure everyone is contributing.
5. Adaptability: Things can get chaotic in a group setting, especially when you have a bunch of ambitious candidates trying to shine. Being adaptable and maintaining composure when things don’t go according to plan is a trait that firms value highly.

What to Expect During a Group Interview

So, what does a typical group interview look like? While every firm might do things a bit differently, here are some common elements you can expect:

🧊 Icebreaker Exercises: These are designed to help everyone feel comfortable and get to know each other. They’re usually pretty casual but don’t let your guard down—recruiters are already watching how you interact.

📊 Case Study or Business Simulation: This is where the real test begins. You might be given a case study or a simulated business problem and asked to solve it as a group. This could involve anything from developing a market entry strategy to identifying cost-cutting measures for a client.

👥 Group Discussions: Sometimes, instead of a case study, you’ll be given a topic to debate or discuss as a group. This tests your ability to communicate effectively, back up your opinions with solid reasoning, and engage respectfully with differing viewpoints.

👩‍🏫 Presentation: Some group interviews end with a presentation. Your team might be asked to present your solution to the case study or your conclusions from the group discussion. This is a chance to show off your presentation skills and ability to synthesize information clearly.

How to Prepare for a Group Interview

Alright, now that you know what to expect, let’s talk about how you can prepare and make a great impression.

1. Practice Case Studies and Problem-Solving: Since many group interviews involve case studies, it’s a good idea to get comfortable with the case interview format. Practice solving different types of cases and try working through them with friends. This will help you learn how to communicate your thought process clearly and concisely, which is essential during the interview.

👉 In our case library at PrepLounge, you can find a great variety of practice cases, so check it out and get started with your preparation.

2. Brush Up on Your Communication Skills: Effective communication isn’t just about talking; it’s about active listening too. Practice summarizing other people’s points and asking clarifying questions. This shows that you’re engaged and value others’ contributions, which is crucial in a team setting.

👉 The best way to improve your communication skills is by interacting with others. Conduct mock interviews with peers to practice cases and receive valuable feedback on your communication. Take a look at our Meeting Board and schedule meetings with like-minded candidates.

3. Learn to Read the Room: During the group interview, pay attention to how others are participating. If you notice someone hasn’t spoken up in a while, consider inviting them to share their thoughts. This shows that you’re a team player and can lead without being overbearing.

4. Be Yourself, but Be Strategic: It’s easy to get caught up in the competitive atmosphere of a group interview, but remember, you’re not trying to outshine everyone else—you’re trying to show how well you can work with them. Be confident, but don’t bulldoze your way through the discussion. Share your ideas, but be open to others’ perspectives too.

5. Think About Your Role in the Group: Not everyone in a group interview needs to be the leader. Sometimes, being the one who keeps track of time, summarizes key points, or ensures everyone’s voice is heard can be just as valuable. Think about what role you naturally tend towards and lean into that. It can help you feel more comfortable and authentic during the interview.

6. Get Comfortable with Presenting: If there’s a presentation element in the group interview, you’ll need to be able to articulate your ideas clearly and persuasively. Practice your presentation skills in front of a mirror, with friends, or by recording yourself. Focus on maintaining eye contact, speaking at a steady pace, and using gestures to emphasize key points.

👉 Working with an experienced coach can also be a great way to improve your presentation skills significantly. A coach will be able to spot your weaknesses right away and can give you valuable feedback on your performance.

7. Research the Firm: Last but not least, do your homework on the consulting firm. Know their culture, recent projects, and what kind of clients they work with. This will help you tailor your contributions during the group interview and show that you’re genuinely interested in the firm, not just in getting a consulting job.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Group Interviews

Last, but not least, let’s quickly cover some pitfalls that you’ll want to steer clear of:

• Dominating the Conversation: It’s great to be confident, but if you’re constantly talking over others or pushing your ideas without considering anyone else’s, it won’t reflect well on you.
• Being Too Quiet: On the flip side, don’t sit back and let everyone else do the talking. You need to contribute, even if it’s just to support someone else’s idea or ask a thoughtful question.
• Ignoring Non-Verbal Cues: Pay attention to body language—both yours and others’. If someone looks confused or disengaged, it might be worth checking in to see if they need clarification or have something to add.
• Forgetting to Be Professional: Even if the atmosphere feels relaxed, remember that it’s still an interview. Be polite, respectful, and avoid slang or overly casual language.

Final Thoughts

Group interviews can be nerve-wracking, but they’re also an opportunity to showcase a different side of yourself. Consulting firms aren’t just looking for brilliant problem-solvers; they want people who can work successfully in a team environment, communicate effectively, and adapt to new challenges. By understanding what to expect and preparing in advance, you’ll be able to walk into your group interview with confidence.

Good luck, and remember — whether you’re leading the discussion, offering a well-timed insight, or encouraging a quieter team member to share their thoughts, there are many ways to shine in a group interview. Just be yourself, be strategic, and show them why you’d make a great consultant. You’ve got this!