What is a Case Interview?

In this article, we will delve into the definition and purpose of a case interview, as well as explore the common types of case interviews conducted in HR. By understanding this important aspect of the hiring process, HR professionals can better prepare themselves and their candidates for success. So, if you're ready to expand your HR glossary and enhance your hiring practices, let's dive into the world of case interviews.

Definition of Case Interview

A case interview is a type of job interview commonly used in the hiring process for consulting and strategic roles, as well as in some industries like finance and marketing. It is designed to assess a candidate's problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, strategic mindset, and ability to communicate and present ideas effectively. In a case interview, the candidate is presented with a business problem or scenario and is asked to analyze and solve it within a given time frame, often using data and information provided.

Examples of Typical Case Interview Questions and Scenarios

1. Market entry: "A company wants to enter a new market, what factors should they consider?"
2. Profitability analysis: "A business is experiencing declining profits, what could be the causes?"
3. Pricing strategy: "How would you determine the optimal pricing for a new product in a competitive market?"

Types of Case Interviews

1. Interviewer-led: The interviewer guides the candidate through a series of questions and provides additional information or hints as needed. This allows the interviewer to assess the candidate's ability to think on their feet and adapt their analysis based on new information.
2. Candidate-led: The candidate takes the lead in structuring the analysis and presents their own solution. This format tests the candidate's ability to take ownership of the problem and demonstrate leadership skills.
3. Group case interview: Multiple candidates work together to solve a problem, showcasing their ability to collaborate and work in a team.
4. Written case: Candidates are given a case study in advance and are asked to prepare a written analysis and recommendations, which they then present during the interview.
5. Online case interview: Some companies use video platforms or online tools to conduct case interviews remotely, simulating an in-person interview experience.

Case Interview Frameworks

Frameworks are structured approaches that help candidates organize their thoughts and analyze complex business problems. Common frameworks include SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats), Porter's Five Forces, profitability analysis, market sizing analysis, and issue trees. These frameworks provide a systematic way to break down problems, identify key factors, and generate insights and recommendations.

For example, in a profitability analysis case, candidates may use a framework like the Profitability Framework, which includes analyzing revenue drivers, cost structure, and pricing factors to identify areas of improvement.

Conclusion

A case interview is a valuable tool used by companies to assess candidates' problem-solving and analytical skills. Understanding the different types of case interviews, utilizing frameworks, and following best practices can significantly improve a candidate's performance. Continuous practice, feedback, and learning from case interview resources and examples are essential for success in this type of interview.