Time to structure recommendation

Question

I had an interview partner who asked for time to structure the final recommendation. Is this a good practice or should I refrain from it?

Answer 1

Hi! This is a good practice.

In my experience, it is very common to ask for some time to structure your final recommendation. So, your request is by no means a stretch.
Even the best candidates do need some time to come up with a very strong final recommendation (not just doing a recap of the case, but bringing some truly value-adding insights).

At the end of the day, when you are doing a case you have no formal time limit, so play with it! Is it better to do a case with a 8/10 final recommendation, or a case with a 10/10 final recommendation taking 20 seconds more? I would say the second option is better!

I hope this helps.

Answer 2

Hi there,

In theory, you can ask for around 20-30 seconds. Most interviewers will grant that request.

In reality, however, if you have an internalized process you can follow and have practiced it enough times, you can do it on the go without taking time.

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 3

Hi there,

Q: I had an interview partner who asked for time to structure the final recommendation. Is this a good practice or should I refrain from it?

It is fine to request time to structure your conclusion and I would personally recommend it, as there are only positive outcomes from it:

Best case: you get the time and can most likely provide a better conclusion.
Worst case: they say no, and you are in the same situation as if you had not asked, as you have to provide a conclusion on the spot.

For this reason, I would request time.

Best,

Francesco

Answer 4

I see no issue with asking for 30 secs just to gather your thoughts. It should take much longer, as the expectation is that throughout the case you'd be taking notes on key findings that will support a final recommendation.

Answer 5

Hi there, I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation: First of all, I would advise you to practice activ... (read entire answer)

Hi there, I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation: First of all, I would advise you to practice active listening and note taking skills so you can follow intervi... (read entire answer)

Answer 6

Thank you emails are always a smart move! Don’t sweat it too much. If the conversation went well, you just have to ho... (read entire answer)

Thank you emails are always a smart move! Don’t sweat it too much. If the conversation went well, you just have to hope your interviewer will show some grace. Your note should h... (read entire answer)

Answer 7

Hi there, First of all, congratulations on the offer! I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions: First... (read entire answer)

Hi there, First of all, congratulations on the offer! I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions: First of all, to maximize your chances, I would advise you to focu... (read entire answer)