The structure of a case study interview typically follows a logical problem-solving process designed to evaluate a candidate's analytical abilities, communication skills, and business acumen. It simulates a real-world business problem that the candidate must solve.
Understanding the Core Steps of a Case Interview Structure
Based on the provided reference, the structure of a case interview involves several key steps that guide the candidate through the problem:
- Clarifying the Question: This initial step is crucial for ensuring you fully understand the problem presented. It involves asking clarifying questions to define the scope, objective, and any constraints of the case.
- Selecting a Suitable Framework: Once the problem is clear, the candidate chooses or develops a logical framework (like Porter's Five Forces, a profitability framework, etc.) to structure their analysis. This helps break down the complex problem into manageable components.
- Conducting Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis: This phase involves diving into the data provided or making logical assumptions to analyze the different aspects of the case.
- Quantitative Analysis: This involves calculations and numerical analysis to identify key drivers or trends (e.g., calculating profitability, market size, break-even points).
- Qualitative Analysis: This focuses on non-numerical factors such as market dynamics, competitive landscape, customer behavior, or operational considerations.
- Developing a Hypothesis: Based on the initial analysis, the candidate forms a hypothesis about the root cause of the problem or the potential solution. This hypothesis is then tested through further analysis.
- Giving Strong Recommendations: After completing the analysis and validating the hypothesis, the candidate synthesizes their findings and provides clear, actionable recommendations to address the business problem. These recommendations should be supported by the analysis.
- Receiving Feedback: The interviewer often provides feedback on the candidate's approach, analysis, and recommendations throughout or at the end of the case.
Key Phases in Practice
While the steps above outline the core structure, a typical case interview often flows through distinct phases:
- Introduction: The interviewer presents the case scenario.
- Clarification & Structuring: The candidate asks clarifying questions and outlines their chosen framework or approach.
- Analysis: The candidate performs the quantitative and qualitative analysis, guided by the framework and interviewer interaction.
- Synthesis & Recommendation: The candidate synthesizes their findings and delivers their final recommendation(s).
- Q&A / Discussion: The interviewer may ask follow-up questions or challenge the recommendation.
- Conclusion: The interview concludes, sometimes with feedback.
Tips for Navigating the Structure
- Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to the case prompt and any hints from the interviewer.
- Think Aloud: Verbally walk the interviewer through your thought process, including your framework, assumptions, and calculations.
- Stay Structured: Use your chosen framework to guide your analysis and avoid getting lost in details.
- Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask for more information or clarify points you are unsure about.
- Synthesize Regularly: Periodically summarize your findings before moving to the next step.
Understanding this structured approach is key to performing well in case interviews, demonstrating a systematic and logical method for tackling complex business challenges.
