To gain truly effective practice in case interviews, it's crucial to approach your preparation systematically. Most candidates fail to grasp this and simply drift along, believing that reading books by Victor Cheng and engaging in random practice will lead them to an offer. In reality, interviews are much more complex than that, and generic advice like "think like a consultant" doesn't work. A clear system is essential; you can’t learn to drive a car by "thinking like a driver" or become a doctor by "thinking like a doctor." You need a transparent process for tracking your results. Here’s the system I recommend:
- General Algorithms for Solving Cases: Focus on mastering fundamental skills such as asking clarifying questions, structuring your approach, analyzing information, and providing recommendations. These core algorithms will serve as the foundation for your case-solving abilities.
- Comprehensive Case Types: Familiarize yourself with a diverse range of case types, including market sizing, market entry, growth strategy, pricing strategy, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), capacity expansion, public sector cases, operational cases, client journeys, and non-standard strategy cases. Understanding these will prepare you for any scenario you might encounter during interviews.
- Industry Knowledge: Develop a foundational understanding of key industries relevant to consulting, such as oil and gas, banking, and retail. This knowledge will enhance your ability to analyze cases within the appropriate context.
- Practice with Feedback: Seek quality feedback on your case performance. Practicing with peers often leads to reinforcing common mistakes, so it’s crucial to find a mentor or coach who can provide constructive criticism and help you navigate complex cases.
If you’re looking for personalized guidance or a structured preparation plan, feel free to reach out to me. I have successfully coached over 100 candidates to secure MBB offers, and I can help you navigate the complexities of the case interview process effectively.