Advisory Services Case Study Interview Tips

We recommend using a four-step structured approach to solving a case Understand Structure & Analyze Evaluate Options Recommend Listen Ask questions/ Clarify Confirm understanding Use analytical framework Breakdown issues Prioritize issues Perform calculations Identify options Analyze impact of options Identify potential risks Synthesize analytical process Reach conclusion Present recommendations Key activities Skills required Communication General business knowledge Structuring Problem solving Analytical Quantitative Communication Analytical Communication Big picture thinking

Structure & Analyze - consider the following elements Strategy Think through the firm’s overall business strategy as you consider the case at hand Try to remember that the final recommendation has to be in line with overall strategy Process What are the key processes that need to be executed once the recommendation is implemented? Think though potential governance, capability/maturity issues related to processes People What are the key skills required? What are the roles and responsibilities and how do they map against the existing skill set? What are the possible organizational structures that could work in this setting? Technology What are the tools and technologies required to run the processes efficiently? What are the existing systems that we could leverage? Performance Management What are the key business drivers and relevant metrics? Are all these metrics quantifiable and measurable? Location This perspective is not always relevant, but you need to think through the location and facility options, especially for call centers and other shared service centers

Tips & Techniques Organized, analytical mindset Be structured and logical Demonstrate quantitative skills Be a problem solver Do not jump to hasty conclusions Problem solving ability Breakdown complicated problems into smaller, manageable ones Demonstrate insight and objective judgment Propose creative but practical measures Think on your feet Remember the basic case question at hand, don’t get lost in the details Communication and interpersonal skills Connect with the interviewer Show poise, maturity, confidence Ask questions, and answer questions asked by the interviewer

Case Study Interview FAQ’s Q: How can I best prepare for a case interview? Answer: Practice, practice, practice…. Practice as many case interviews as you can and practice with many individuals. Do not stick to your comfort zone Q: What should I do if I am stuck with a specific detail or am not quite sure of an effective way to tackle a situation? Answer: Ask questions. Clarify from the interviewer if you are headed in the right direction. Fall back on your structure and head a different path Q: Is it ok to tell an interviewer "I'm not sure"? Should I focus on the aspects I am familiar with and hope they overlook the areas I didn't address? Answer: Yes. It is OK to say you are “not sure”. While it is good to focus on your strengths, remember that the answer might be elsewhere. Try to address all the relevant portions of the case. Q: Is it acceptable to make assumptions while conducting the analysis? Answer: Yes, as long as the assumptions are logical, relevant and clearly stated to the interviewer