Preparing for the case interview

Case interview tips

As part of the interview process at Deloitte, you may be asked to demonstrate your problem-solving skills, analytical ability, and strategic and logical thinking through a case or scenario interview. These interviews also offer you the opportunity to showcase your creativity, your comfort with ambiguity, and your ability to think quickly and adapt. At the same time, they provide you with insight into the type of challenges we help our clients with, as these cases are fictional examples of the types of real client projects we work on every day. Here are some tips to help you stand out.

Approaching the case interview

Case interviews help us assess a candidate across multiple dimensions, and we look for answers that project clear thinking, practical judgment, and a professional demeanor.

“Being able to show your work and explain your thought process during your interview can help set you apart” says Keyana Dunn, senior experienced hire recruiting specialist, Deloitte Services LP.

Apply this five-step approach while working through the case interview:

1. Understand the issue: Ask clarifying questions as needed to ensure you fully understand the problem at hand.
2. Identify the underlying assumptions: Recognize and articulate the assumptions that underpin the case scenario.
3. Summarize specific issues and findings: Clearly outline the key issues and your findings based on the information provided.
4. State your recommendations: Provide well-thought-out recommendations based on your analysis.
5. Outline next steps and expected results/impacts: Discuss the potential next steps and the expected outcomes or impacts of your recommendations.

When working through a case interview, you are not expected to provide the "right" answer, but rather to clearly convey your logic and thought process.

“The case interview is not about getting the right answer, it’s about how well you respond under pressure. It’s explaining your thinking, explaining your approach, and being articulate” says Sophia Fanucchi, campus recruiting specialist, Deloitte Services LP.

Tips for demonstrating your thinking in the case interview

• Take notes throughout the interview: Jot down key points and ideas as you work through the case to keep your thoughts organized.
• Be sure you understand the question: Ensure you grasp the main question and objectives before diving into your analysis.
• Ask questions, but don't use them as a crutch: While it's important to ask clarifying questions, avoid relying on them too heavily. We’re interested in how you connect the dots when solving the problem.
• Develop and articulate a framework and initial hypothesis: Create a structured approach to tackle the case and share your initial hypothesis with the interviewer.
• Take time to compose your thoughts: Don’t rush into your response. Take a moment to organize your thoughts before speaking.
• Structure your analysis into a clear, logical story. Present your findings and recommendations coherently and logically.
• Walk the interviewer through your thinking and explain your assumptions: Clearly articulate your thought process and the assumptions you’ve made along the way.
• Don't panic—engage the interviewer in a business conversation: Stay calm and treat the interview as a collaborative business discussion with a client.

Remember, the case interview is an opportunity to learn about the work we do at Deloitte: Use this chance to gain insights into the types of projects you might work on at Deloitte.

Prepare for your interview through practice

Our case interview prep tools give you the chance to practice demonstrating your problem-solving skills, analytical ability, and strategic and logical thinking. You'll also learn more about what we do at Deloitte. Visit our case interview prep tools and start building your case interviewing skills today!

Visit our case interview tool if you are interviewing for an entry-level Consulting position.

Visit our scenario interview tool if you are interviewing for an entry-level Risk & Financial Advisory position.

Conclusion

Preparing for a case interview at Deloitte requires a combination of analytical skills, strategic thinking, and effective communication. By following these tips and utilizing our case interview prep tool, you can enhance your ability to tackle case interviews confidently and successfully. Remember, the goal is not to find the "right" answer but to clearly convey your logic and thought process. Good luck!
 

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