consulting

How to conduct a case interview

By Anne Carpenter 25 April, 2023 2 mins read

Pracing case interviews can help improve your case interview skills as well as reveal your weaknesses. There are two ways to practice case interviewing: with a partner and using a meeting board. Practice math with a partner or on a free board. These tips will help you prepare to interview for a case.

A partner is needed to conduct a case interview

You can improve your interviewing skills by getting a partner to conduct case interviews. As with tennis, case interviewing can only be learned by practicing. You will improve your skills faster if you practice with someone who's better than you. It is also beneficial to schedule a time when you will practice with your partner. This will keep you from procrastinating.

Case interviews should include a range of case types. Case interviews should focus on business expansion, investment decisions, new products and service, and market size. You will be prepared for any scenario by having experience with a range of cases.

Get a free meeting board to conduct case interviews

If you're doing a case interview with clients, you may be wondering if you can use video conferencing. Video conferencing services like Zoom and Webex allow you to conduct a case interview through video. The interviewer can be seen and heard, and you can even take notes right on the spot using a document-camera. A document camera costs $100 to $300, depending on its quality.

Many consulting firms employ case interviews as part of their hiring process. In these interviews, candidates are presented with real problems from a client. The interviewer gives candidates a 30-minute time frame to solve the problem. You can make a car, or sell products online. It's up to the candidate to resolve both these problems in this timeframe.

Scheduling a case interview without a partner

There are several reasons for scheduling a case interview without a partner. The most successful partners have quit case interview racing. They only work with close friends and have an inner circle. They work together to protect each other's interests. But it's not enough to get someone like them - you must be a solid candidate, be capable of separating the wheat from chaff and be able do a case interview.

First, an interactive online form can be used. This allows you to get a feel for the candidate-led interview. Two case interview practice cases are available on the BCG Interactive Case Library. However, structured cases are more useful for practicing with a partner.

FAQ

What is the difference between consulting and freelancing?

Freelancers, who are self-employed and provide services to clients without the need for employees, are independent contractors. They typically charge hourly rates based on time spent working on a client's project. Consultants usually work for agencies or companies that employ them. They are often paid monthly or annually.

Freelancers tend to have more flexibility than consultants because they control their work hours and set their own prices. Consultants have better benefits, like health insurance, vacation time, sick leave, retirement plans and etc.

How much does it cost for a consultant to be hired?

The cost to hire a consultant depends on many factors. These include:

Project size
Time frame
Scope of work
Fees
Deliverables
Other factors such as location and experience are also important.

How can I become a successful consultant

It is important to identify an area of passion. First, build relationships. It is important to understand the needs of clients and their business. Finally, you must deliver results.

You don't have to be the best at everything, but you do have to be better than everyone else. Passion is key. It's not enough to just say "I want to be a consultant." You must believe in yourself.

What are the benefits of being a consultant

Consultants are able to pick when and where they want to work.

This means that you can work when you want and wherever you want.

You can also easily change your mind, without worrying about losing any money.

You can finally control your income and create your own schedule.

Do I really need legal advice?

Yes! Yes. Many consultants sign contracts without seeking legal advice. This can lead into problems down-the-road. What happens if a client terminates the agreement after the consultant's completion deadline? Or, what happens if the consultant doesn't meet the deadlines set forth in the contract?

Avoid any legal issues by speaking with a lawyer.

Statistics

According to statistics from the ONS, the UK has around 300,000 consultants, of which around 63,000 professionals work as management consultants. (consultancy.uk)
Over 62% of consultants were dissatisfied with their former jobs before starting their consulting business. (consultingsuccess.com)
WHY choose me: Why your ideal client should choose you (ex: 10 years of experience and 6-week program has helped over 20 clients boost their sales by an average of 33% in 6 months). (consultingsuccess.com)
On average, your program increases the sales team's performance by 33%. (consultingsuccess.com)
So, if you help your clients increase their sales by 33%, then use a word like “revolution” instead of “increase.” (consultingsuccess.com)