A case interview, also referred to as a case study, is a real or hypothetical business problem that is presented to the candidate and then it is discussed with the interviewer. The purpose of a case study is to allow the employer an opportunity to assess how the candidate methodically approaches a problem using their analytical and logical thought processes more so than resolving the problem accurately.

Case interviews have been predominately used in the consulting industry.  However, recently the staff at the Alumni Career Center, when speaking to employers, have been hearing that more employers are using them in the interview process for certain roles.  According to the Senior Director of Corporate Human Resources at a leading fast food chain when hiring for a VP of Corporate Strategy, the candidates were asked to analyze all publicly available information about their company and present a strategic view on areas of opportunity that the employer might be missing.

The following are some tips to follow to be successful in approaching a case interview :
1. Actively listen and identify the problem
2. Analyze the problem and formulate critical questions
3. Synthesize the information and develop several potential structured solutions
4. Communicate clearly and concisely your recommendations

 McKinsey & Company’s website provides more in-depth information and practice case interviews. Visit the Virtual Career Center for additional tips on “Interviewing” under the “Job Search” tab.