Management consultant interviews: 10 critical preparation steps
I’ll focus on the 10 crucial steps to prepare for business consulting interviews. As overall advice, by far the best way to become a top interviewer is to get live interview experience - precisely the reason why you should spread a broad net in your search for the right consulting firms to apply to.
Case study prep
1. Buy Case In Point - a strong, 100% case-focused manual
2. Peruse Victor Cheng’s website www.caseinterview.com - as a former McKinsey consultant, Victor has a strong grasp of successful case study techniques and strategies
3. Practice case studies through the Internet - most consulting firm websites have plenty of real cases (some like Bain even have video simulations). The key step is to try answering the question yourself before reading the correct answer. There are several consulting websites with case study materials as well, one example is Rice’s Consulting Club
4. Practice case studies with friends - if no friends have relevant experience, search Craigslist, consulting forums, and the like for practice buddies
5. Practice estimation questions in spare moments (eg, if you see a Chrysler while driving, think about how many Chryslers are manufactured in the U.S.). It seems silly, but this is how you become quick and agile in your thought process
The most critical thing: practicing cases with current consultants. Don’t underestimate their ability to help.
Fit interview prep
1. Create example fit interview questions and prepare example replies - avoid simple memorization, but outline your key talking points.
2. Practice responding in front of a mirror - this helps you with body language, pacing, hand gestures, and so on
3. Practice with friends and family - have them ask you questions where you don’t have prepared responses. Improvisational interview skills will serve you well for consulting interviews
General interview preparation advice
1. Wear something that looks clean, sharp, and makes you feel confident - first appearances are deceptively powerful. Dress like a management consultant, and people will think you deserve an offer.
2. Talk to current and former consultants - the better you understand the job and lifestyle, the more comfortable you are with consulting lingo like “on the beach” and “5,000 mile view“, the better you’ll do. It’s also great for recruiting and networking
That wraps up our how-to article on preparing for management consultant interviews. Good luck!
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