Passing your consulting case interviews requires an understanding of the various case interview types. There are several types of consulting cases that are frequently asked in consulting interviews, such as profitability, market entry, and M&A cases.

 

In this comprehensive article, we’ll cover 14 case interview types. In addition to these 14 types of consulting cases, there are also various formats and styles of case interviews you should be familiar with.

 

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Types of Case Interviews

 

There are 14 common case interview types. These different types of consulting cases include: market sizing, profitability, growth strategy, pricing, market entry, M&A, operations, private equity, valuation, marketing, new product, HR, economic, and brain teasers.

 

Market Sizing Case Interview

 

Market sizing case interviews test a candidate's ability to estimate the size of a specific market using logical thinking and quick calculations. These cases often involve estimating quantities or market value, such as the number of smartphones sold in a country annually or the total revenue of a new product segment.

 

Candidates must break down complex problems into manageable parts, make reasonable assumptions, and use basic arithmetic to reach an estimation.

 

Examples of market sizing cases:

 

• Estimate the number of electric vehicles sold in the US annually

 

• Determine the market size for fitness trackers in Europe

 

• Calculate the annual revenue generated by coffee shops in New York City

 

• Estimate the number of gallons of milk consumed in a country each year

 

• Assess the potential market size for a new streaming service in a developing market

 

Profitability Case Interview

 

Profitability case interviews focus on identifying the reasons behind a company's declining profits and proposing viable solutions. These cases require an in-depth analysis of revenues, costs, and market conditions to determine the root cause of profitability issues.

 

Examples of profitability cases:

 

• Identify the reasons behind declining profits at a mid-sized restaurant chain

 

• Analyze why a luxury hotel is experiencing a drop in its profitability

 

• Determine the cause of reduced margins for a consumer electronics company

 

• Investigate the profitability issues of a regional airline facing increased competition

 

• Assess the declining profitability of a manufacturing company despite stable sales

 

Growth Strategy Case Interview

 

Growth strategy case interviews involve developing strategies for a company to achieve growth, whether through market expansion, product diversification, or other strategic initiatives. Candidates need to demonstrate their ability to identify growth opportunities, assess market potential, and create actionable plans.

 

Examples of growth strategy cases:

 

• Develop a growth strategy for a clothing retailer looking to expand into new regions

 

• Propose ways for a tech startup to increase its user base

 

• Recommend growth strategies for a financial services firm aiming to diversify its offerings

 

• Suggest a plan for a beverage company to enter a new product category

 

• Create a strategy for an e-commerce platform to boost its market share

 

Pricing Case Interview

 

Pricing case interviews test a candidate's ability to determine the optimal price for a product or service. These cases require an understanding of market demand, competitive landscape, and cost structure. Candidates need to balance profitability with market competitiveness and customer willingness to pay.

 

Examples of pricing cases:

 

• Determine the optimal pricing strategy for a new software product

 

• Recommend a pricing model for a subscription-based online service

 

• Evaluate the impact of a price increase on a fast-food chain's sales

 

• Develop a pricing strategy for a luxury car manufacturer's latest model

 

• Analyze the pricing approach for a new pharmaceutical drug entering the market

 

Market Entry Case Interview

 

Market entry case interviews focus on developing a strategy for a company to enter a new market. These cases assess a candidate's ability to evaluate market potential, understand the competitive environment, and identify entry barriers.

 

Examples of market entry cases:

 

• Develop a market entry strategy for a European car manufacturer entering the US market

 

• Recommend an entry plan for a food company expanding into Asia

 

• Create a strategy for a fashion brand to launch in a new international market

 

• Assess the feasibility of a tech company's entry into the African market

 

• Suggest an approach for a healthcare company to enter a new regional market

 

Merger & Acquisition Case Interview

 

Merger and acquisition case interviews involve analyzing the strategic fit, financial benefits, and potential risks of merging with or acquiring another company. Candidates need to assess synergies, integration challenges, and the overall impact on the company's market position.

 

Examples of M&A cases:

 

• Evaluate the potential acquisition of a smaller tech firm by a larger corporation

 

• Analyze the strategic fit of a merger between two retail companies

 

• Assess the benefits and risks of a pharmaceutical company's acquisition of a biotech startup

 

• Determine the viability of a media company's merger with a telecommunications provider

 

• Recommend whether a manufacturing company should acquire a key supplier

 

Operations Case Interview

 

Operations case interviews focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of a company's operations. These cases require analyzing processes, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing solutions to optimize performance.

 

Examples of operations cases:

 

• Identify ways to streamline the supply chain of a consumer goods company

 

• Suggest improvements for the production process of a manufacturing plant

 

• Propose strategies to enhance the efficiency of a retail chain's distribution network

 

• Analyze the operations of a call center and recommend ways to reduce wait times

 

• Develop a plan to improve the inventory management system of an electronics retailer

 

Private Equity Case Interview

 

Private equity case interviews involve evaluating investment opportunities in private companies. Candidates need to assess the financial health, growth potential, and strategic fit of target companies.

 

Examples of private equity cases:

 

• Assess the investment potential of a family-owned business in the hospitality industry

 

• Evaluate the viability of a private equity firm's investment in a healthcare startup

 

• Analyze the growth potential of a mid-sized tech company for a private equity acquisition

 

• Recommend whether a private equity firm should invest in a regional restaurant chain

 

• Determine the attractiveness of a renewable energy company for private equity investment

 

Valuation Case Interview

 

Valuation case interviews require candidates to determine the value of a company or asset. These cases involve financial modeling, analyzing cash flows, and applying valuation methods such as discounted cash flow (DCF) or comparable company analysis.

 

Examples of valuation cases:

 

• Value a tech startup using discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis

 

• Determine the valuation of a manufacturing company preparing for an IPO

 

• Assess the market value of a retail chain based on comparable company analysis

 

• Calculate the worth of a pharmaceutical company considering an acquisition offer

 

• Evaluate the valuation of a media company in light of recent market trends

 

Marketing Case Interview

 

Marketing case interviews focus on developing strategies to promote and sell products or services. These cases require an understanding of market research, customer segmentation, and marketing mix elements.

 

Examples of marketing cases:

 

• Develop a marketing strategy for the launch of a new smartphone

 

• Propose a rebranding campaign for an established consumer goods product

 

• Suggest ways to improve the customer acquisition efforts of an online service

 

• Create a marketing plan for a new line of fitness apparel

 

• Analyze the effectiveness of a digital marketing campaign for a luxury brand

 

New Product Case Interview

 

New product case interviews involve developing strategies for launching and managing new products. These cases assess a candidate's ability to identify market opportunities, define product features, and create go-to-market plans.

 

Examples of new product cases:

 

• Plan the launch of a new tech gadget for a consumer electronics company

 

• Develop a strategy for introducing a new beverage in the market

 

• Suggest a go-to-market plan for a software company's latest product

 

• Create a launch strategy for a new pharmaceutical drug

 

• Recommend ways to introduce a new home appliance to the market

 

Human Resources Case Interview

 

Human resources case interviews focus on addressing issues related to workforce management, such as recruitment, retention, and organizational development. These cases require candidates to propose solutions for improving HR practices and increasing employee satisfaction.

 

Examples of HR cases:

 

• Develop a strategy to reduce employee turnover in a call center

 

• Propose improvements to the training program in a manufacturing plant

 

• Suggest ways to enhance employee satisfaction in a retail chain

 

• Recommend policies for talent development in a tech startup

 

• Create a plan to improve performance management systems in a financial services firm

 

Economic Case Interview

 

Economic case interviews involve analyzing economic trends and their impact on business decisions. Candidates need to apply economic principles to evaluate market conditions, regulatory changes, and macroeconomic factors.

 

Examples of economic cases:

 

• Analyze the impact of new trade tariffs on a manufacturing company

 

• Assess the effects of a minimum wage increase on a retail chain

 

• Evaluate the economic implications of a new government policy on the healthcare industry

 

• Determine the impact of a recession on a consumer goods company

 

• Analyze the effects of inflation on a financial services firm

 

Consulting Brain Teasers

 

Consulting brain teasers are short puzzles or riddles designed to assess a candidate's logical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. These cases often require thinking outside the box and applying unconventional approaches.

 

Examples of consulting brain teasers:

 

• How many golf balls can fit in a Boeing 747?

 

• Estimate the total number of windows in New York City

 

• How many piano tuners are there in Chicago?

 

• Calculate the number of times a clock's hands overlap in a day

 

Formats of Case Interviews

 

There are three major formats of case interviews: traditional case interviews, unstructured case interviews, written case interviews, and group case interviews.

 

Traditional Case Interview

 

The traditional case interview is the most common format and typically involves a one-on-one session between the candidate and the interviewer. In this format, the interviewer presents a business problem or scenario, and the candidate is expected to analyze the situation, develop a structured approach, and propose a solution.

 

The interviewer may provide additional information or ask follow-up questions as the candidate works through the case. This format assesses a candidate's problem solving skills, analytical thinking, communication abilities, and ability to perform under pressure.

 

Tips for traditional case interviews:

 

• Clarify the objectives: Begin by clarifying the objectives of the case with the interviewer

 

• Break down the problem: Break down the problem into its components and identify the key issues to address. Structure your approach by outlining a framework or logical sequence of steps to analyze the case systematically

 

• Consider multiple perspectives: Analyze the case from different angles and consider various stakeholders' perspectives. Anticipate potential challenges or objections and address them proactively in your analysis

 

• Communicate clearly and concisely: Articulate your thought process clearly as you work through the case

 

Unstructured case interview

 

Unstructured case interviews are a variant where the format and direction of the interview are intentionally less defined compared to structured counterparts. Rather than presenting a clear problem statement, unstructured case interviews often involve more open-ended questions and hypothetical scenarios.

 

This format is designed to assess a candidate's ability to think creatively, adapt quickly, and demonstrate analytical skills in ambiguous situations.

 

Tips for unstructured case interviews:

 

• Structure your answers: Despite the open-ended nature of unstructured case interviews, it's crucial to provide a structured response

 

• Caveat your answers: Given the ambiguity often present in unstructured case interviews, it's beneficial to acknowledge uncertainties or assumptions in your analysis

 

• Be flexible and coachable: Stay open to feedback and be willing to adjust your approach if the interviewer suggests a different angle or consideration

 

• Check in with the interviewer often: Clarify ambiguous aspects of the case, seek confirmation on your approach, and ask for feedback on your analysis

 

Written Case Interview

 

In a written case interview, candidates are given a packet of information, including data, charts, and other relevant documents, and are asked to analyze the information and develop a recommendation in a written format.

 

This type of interview usually allows for more time compared to a traditional case interview, often ranging from 60 to 90 minutes. Candidates need to synthesize the information, identify key insights, and structure their findings into a coherent and persuasive presentation.

 

The written case interview evaluates a candidate's ability to process and interpret complex data, as well as their written communication skills.

 

Tips for written case interviews:

 

• Start your presentation with your recommendation first: Begin your written case presentation with a clear and concise statement of your recommendation or solution. This sets the tone and provides a roadmap for the rest of your presentation

 

• Slide titles should summarize the main point of each slide: Each slide title should act as a concise summary of the main message or key takeaway of that particular slide. This helps the audience quickly grasp the content

 

• Each slide should have one message: Maintain clarity and focus on each slide by conveying one main message or idea. Avoid overcrowding slides with too much information or multiple concepts, as this can confuse the reader

 

• Include next steps: Conclude your presentation by outlining specific next steps or actions to be taken based on your recommendation. This demonstrates forward-thinking and proactive planning

 

Group Case Interview

 

The group case interview format involves multiple candidates working together to solve a case presented by one or more interviewers. This format assesses not only individual problem solving abilities but also teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.

 

Candidates must collaborate to analyze the case, share their insights, and collectively develop a solution. The group dynamics and how each candidate contributes to the discussion are closely observed by the interviewers.

 

This format is particularly useful for evaluating how candidates perform in a team setting, manage conflict, and lead discussions.

 

Tips for group case interviews:

 

• Treat your group members as teammates, not competition: Emphasize collaboration over competition by fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Acknowledge and respect the diverse perspectives and skills that each member brings to the group. Encourage open communication and teamwork to collectively solve the case

 

• Don’t speak too much or too little: Strike a balance in your participation by contributing thoughtfully without dominating the discussion. Aim to share your insights and ideas at appropriate intervals, allowing others the opportunity to contribute as well. Avoid dominating the conversation or remaining silent for extended periods

 

• Speak only if you are adding value to the group: Prioritize quality over quantity when speaking in group discussions. Contribute to the conversation with meaningful insights, relevant information, or critical questions that advance the group's understanding of the case. Focus on adding value and moving the discussion forward rather than speaking for the sake of speaking

 

• Don’t interrupt or talk over people: Practice active listening and demonstrate respect for your peers' contributions by avoiding interruptions or talking over others. Wait for natural pauses in the conversation to interject or politely signal your desire to speak

 

Styles of Traditional Case Interviews

 

Traditional case interviews can either be interviewer-led or candidate-led.

 

Interviewer-Led Cases

 

Interviewer-led case interviews are structured and directed by the interviewer, who guides the candidate through the problem-solving process by asking specific questions and providing information in a step-by-step manner. This style is commonly used by firms like McKinsey.

 

In an interviewer-led case, the candidate needs to respond to each prompt, analyze the information provided, and move to the next question based on the interviewer's direction. This format allows the interviewer to assess a candidate's ability to follow a logical progression, think quickly, and articulate their thoughts clearly.

 

Tips for interviewer-led cases:

 

• Listen actively and attentively: Pay close attention to the interviewer's instructions and questions. Listen actively to ensure you understand the problem statement and any additional information provided

 

• Communicate clearly and confidently: Articulate your findings and recommendations clearly and confidently. Structure your responses with a clear introduction, a detailed analysis, and a concise conclusion that ties back to the initial problem statement

 

• Be prepared for follow-up questions: Anticipate follow-up questions from the interviewer and be ready to defend your analysis and recommendations. Be flexible in adapting your approach based on new information or insights provided during the interview

 

Candidate-Led Cases

 

Candidate-led cases, preferred by firms like BCG and Bain, are more open-ended and require the candidate to take the initiative in driving the case forward. In this style, the candidate is expected to define the problem, develop a structured framework, and guide the conversation by asking relevant questions and exploring different areas of the case.

 

The interviewer provides information and feedback based on the candidate's questions and direction. This format tests a candidate's ability to structure problems independently, prioritize issues, and think strategically.

 

Tips for candidate-led cases:

 

• Take ownership of the discussion: Lead the discussion by guiding the interviewer through your structured approach. Initiate the discussion points, present your analysis step-by-step, and clearly articulate your thought process and decision-making rationale

 

• Engage the interviewer: Encourage a collaborative dialogue with the interviewer throughout the case. Seek feedback, validate assumptions, and incorporate insights or additional information provided by the interviewer into your analysis

 

• Manage time effectively: Balance thorough analysis with efficient time management. Prioritize key discussion points, allocate time for each step of your analysis, and ensure you cover all necessary aspects of the case within the allotted timeframe

Author: Taylor Warfield

 

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