4 Case Evaluation Criteria
Know what the interviewer is testing.
Different rounds, different skills
The whole interview process is designed to select the candidates that are the best suited for a consulting job. In order to do so, consulting firms focus on separate skills as you progress through the interview rounds:
- The first round is focussed on a candidate’s qualitative skills and structure — The first round is conducted by a consultant.
- The second round reviews the candidate’s creativity, business sense (and also qualitative skills and structure) — The second round is conducted by a managers or principal.
- During the final round, a candidate’s general knowledge and soft skills come under the microscope — The final round is conducted by a partner.
Every round thus has its own focus. However, keep in mind that the interviewer is always testing your whole set of skills. Never lower your guard!
Consulting firms are looking for individuals with strong quantitative, qualitative, structuring and communication skills. Scoring high in these skills is required in order to let you pass to the next round.
1. Quantitative skills
At ease with complex math, you are able to make educated estimates, check your calculus and quickly solve basic math problems. You are able to derive insights from your calculus and base your assumptions and hypothesis on facts.
2. Qualitative skills
You ask the right questions and seek to understand the bigger picture. You have pragmatic and realistic solutions. You focus on finding solutions instead of focussing on problems and rely on your business sense in order to develop impactful solutions.
3. Structure
You write legibly, work neatly and develop an easy-to-understand structure that is MECE. You complete and refine the structure as you gather additional insights, you never loose yourself in details and you are flexible with new information.
4. Communication
Before speaking, you listen. You structure your thoughts and ask questions about the high-impact elements of the case. You are dynamic and know when to engage in a discussion with the interviewer and when to take some time to structure your thoughts.
Next to these four criteria, the interviewer will also assess your creative, problem solving skills, business sense, leadership and interpersonal skills. Showing a superior ability in any of these elements will turn you into a great candidate. We’ll review these in our next article.
Credits
This article was built on great insights and articles from Kellogg Consulting Club and Wharton Consulting Club. Make sure you check these out!
