Preparing for an Interview
-
Don’t forget to prepare for the “Fit” portion of the interview
Keep in mind that Claris is also looking for individuals who would “fit” with Claris’ culture and team; it is not merely enough to do well on the case-interview.
Start Early
The more practice you get with case interviews the more comfortable you would be with the analytics behind breaking down different types of problems. Familiarize yourself with different types of problems, cases, solutions and interview styles.
Do not bother studying the nuances of a particular industry
Your interviewer is more interested in how you go about tackling a particular problem than getting to the right solution.
Understand basic strategy frameworks
Knowing standard frameworks such as Porter’s Five Forces or the 4 P’s might help you structure your thinking but they may not always be relevant. Be mindful of adapting or moving away from standard frameworks when necessary.
You can make assumptions, but state them clearly
It is rarely the case that you will given all the data that is required to answer the problem at hand. Instead it is advisable that you make certain assumptions that will help you simplify the problem. Be sure, however, to communicate whatever assumptions you make to your interviewer.
Focus on high-impact issues
Utilize the 80/20 principle in prioritizing your problem. Seeing the big picture without obsessing over the details shows your interviewer that you are able to synthesize on a high-level. It also assures that you have spent your limited time wisely.
Practice pacing yourself during the interview
You should always make sure you leave enough time to complete your outlined analysis and enough time to summarize and provide your recommendation
Practice summarizing the problem at hand
Practice pulling the key pieces together and communicating your findings clearly in less than 2 minutes.
-
Be patient and take your time
Listen to the question carefully, jot down any data provided to you and be sure to ask clarifying questions on points you do not understand. It will be very difficult to do well in the case interview if you do not fully understand the problem at hand.
Gather your thoughts and synthesize on paper first
It is advisable that you structure your problem using a framework that will help identify the analysis required. You should also always note down any hypothesis you develop throughout the case, but feel free to alter them as you receive additional information.
Do not internalize your thought process
The interviewer cannot help guide you if he/she does not know what you’re thinking.
Communicate your approach clearly, and stick to it
Outline how you would like to go about answering the problem, and move through your approach methodically. Outlining an approach and sticking to it shows the interviewer you are able structure your thinking and communicate it in a logical fashion.
Embrace the numbers
If asked to, make quick and accurate calculations. Being comfortable with numbers is very important as a consultant.
Refine your hypothesis along the way and draw conclusions from your analysis
You need to take a data-driven solid stance towards the end of the case. Being wishy-washy shows that you have not fully explored all the strategic alternatives effectively.
Always include a final-recommendation to the question
In consulting, its not merely enough to diagnose the problem. Including an innovative recommendation shows that you understand the “so-what” factor behind every problem.
Listen to your interviewer
Your interviewer will often guide you or give you advice during the course of the interview. He/she wants to help direct you towards the right course of action. Do not defend your solution at all costs. Showing humility demonstrates your willingness to entertain the ideas of others.