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.
Getting ready for case studies
1. Browse Case In Point – a very high-quality, 100% case-focused preparation guide
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 online – most company sites have plenty of real cases (some like Bain even have video run-throughs). The key is to answer the question yourself before reading the suggested answer. There are several consulting websites with case study materials as well, one example is Rice’s Consulting Club
4. Practice a lot with friends – if no friends have interest, search consulting forums and other recruiting hubs like Vault for partners
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.
Experiential/behavioral interview prep
1. Create example fit interview questions and prepare example replies – avoid simple memorization, but outline your key talking points.
2. Practice answering in front of a mirror – this helps familiarize you with body language, pacing, volume, and more
3. Practice with colleagues – make them ask you questions with no prepared responses. Improvisational skills will serve you well in your business career
General interview prep suggestions
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 tour of how to prepare for business consulting interviews. Good luck!
