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How do I break into the consulting field? How do I prep for a case interview?
Consulting
#consulting #business #management
9 answers
Updated
Jonathan’s Answer
First determine what industry you are interested in consulting in. Evaluate your current education and work experience to determine a game plan to apply to a consulting company. Network with individuals within the consulting company you are interested in. Seek certifications that you can obtain to improve your skills and continue to develop.
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Aneri’s Answer
Hi, Eleanor! I currently work in the consulting industry and have led many sessions on case & technical interview prep. I have also gone through this process myself with consulting companies. Each company will have a different structure and and their own specifics, however here is a summary of the advice I usually provide for consulting case interviews:
- Make sure you thoroughly review & understand the problem/case you are being given: take notes on key points, capture the facts, and highlight
what is relevant
- Don't be afraid to ask questions! If there are any points or facts that you would like to clarify, take the time to do so
- Make sure you are clear on the core question that you are trying to solve. It can be easy to get lost in all of the information you are provided, so always try to keep the main problem and objective in mind
- Feel free to break the problem into components to better understand it/the main factors. This is also a great way to fully assess the issue and start to brainstorm potential solutions
- Don't be afraid to ask follow-up questions while going through the process - the interviewers are usually there to help you and will continue to clarify any additional queries on the information while you brainstorm. This is also a good way to make sure that the plan you are creating isn't missing any information/doesn't include any incorrect assumptions
- Present your plan/solution! Start by quickly recapping the main facts and objectives of the case. Then, walk through your solution, plan, and final recommendation. Make sure to have a few key facts/points ready as support for your solution. Feel free to also suggest next steps
As a final piece of advice, don't fret too much on coming up with the "best" solution - oftentimes there is no one correct solution to these cases! Interviewers will be looking more towards how you approach the problem, your creation of an informed solution, and your skills articulating/presenting the final recommendation.
- Make sure you thoroughly review & understand the problem/case you are being given: take notes on key points, capture the facts, and highlight
what is relevant
- Don't be afraid to ask questions! If there are any points or facts that you would like to clarify, take the time to do so
- Make sure you are clear on the core question that you are trying to solve. It can be easy to get lost in all of the information you are provided, so always try to keep the main problem and objective in mind
- Feel free to break the problem into components to better understand it/the main factors. This is also a great way to fully assess the issue and start to brainstorm potential solutions
- Don't be afraid to ask follow-up questions while going through the process - the interviewers are usually there to help you and will continue to clarify any additional queries on the information while you brainstorm. This is also a good way to make sure that the plan you are creating isn't missing any information/doesn't include any incorrect assumptions
- Present your plan/solution! Start by quickly recapping the main facts and objectives of the case. Then, walk through your solution, plan, and final recommendation. Make sure to have a few key facts/points ready as support for your solution. Feel free to also suggest next steps
As a final piece of advice, don't fret too much on coming up with the "best" solution - oftentimes there is no one correct solution to these cases! Interviewers will be looking more towards how you approach the problem, your creation of an informed solution, and your skills articulating/presenting the final recommendation.
Updated
Verna’s Answer
Practice makes perfect! I recommend going to company websites that are hiring for consulting, and in addition to thoroughly researching what type of consulting role you'd like to break into, these companies often have a resources page with case interview prep or tips and tricks. Make sure to study sample cases to build your consulting skills, and if you know someone who is also trying to recruit for consulting, it helps to practice together.
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Kate’s Answer
If you are currently in college, the best starting point would be to apply for a summer internship within a consulting firm! This way you are able to get exposure to consulting as a career and potentially see multiple types of consulting if you take the time to network and connect with other groups. If there is a case study, focus less on getting the correct answer and more on showing your critical thinking skills!
Explore on Access Your Potential’s site potential career opportunities like internships and paid consulting externships for nonprofits. To learn more: http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
Explore on Access Your Potential’s site potential career opportunities like internships and paid consulting externships for nonprofits. To learn more: http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
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Jonathan’s Answer
I recommend reading "Case Interview Secrets" by Victor Cheng to become familiar with the consulting frameworks, creating issue trees, and practicing structured communication. I've also found his audio recordings and resume templates very helpful.
I would find someone who you could practice your interviews with, ideally someone who works in consulting or a fellow student who is also preparing for their case studies. Each mock interview is an opportunity to practice the interview and get valuable feedback.
If you're looking for case study prompts to use, you could find example ones on the McKinsey, Bain, and BCG websites. I've also reached out to business school students who have access to case studies from various companies. Best of luck!
I would find someone who you could practice your interviews with, ideally someone who works in consulting or a fellow student who is also preparing for their case studies. Each mock interview is an opportunity to practice the interview and get valuable feedback.
If you're looking for case study prompts to use, you could find example ones on the McKinsey, Bain, and BCG websites. I've also reached out to business school students who have access to case studies from various companies. Best of luck!
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Micheal’s Answer
Hello Eleanor, the answers given are relevant and great. I would say simply that whatever you want to consult in requires a level of subject matter expertise including education and most importantly experience. That experience usually has to come with evidence backed projects, management decisions with positive outcomes, etc, etc.
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Supreet’s Answer
Becoming a consultant can be a rewarding career path. Here is a step-by-step approach to help you get started:
1.Identify your area of expertise: Determine the field or industry where you have deep knowledge, skills, and experience.
2.Acquire relevant qualifications: Having educational qualifications or certifications related to your chosen area boosts credibility. Consider pursuing advanced degrees, professional certifications, or specialized training programs continuously during your entire career.
3.Gain practical experience: Build a strong foundation of practical experience by working in your chosen field. Star with working in a relevant job role, interning, or volunteering. Aim for diverse experiences that expose you to different aspects of the industry.
4.Develop a niche: Having a specific niche can set you apart from others. Thus depth of your expertise is more important than breadth of your knowledge.
5.Network extensively: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with individuals who can help you expand your professional network.
6.Mentors - Seek mentors who can offer guidance and advice based on their consulting experience.
7.Build a portfolio of work: Start building a portfolio that showcases your expertise and demonstrates your ability to solve problems. This could include case studies, reports, articles, or presentations. Consider offering pro bono services or taking on small projects to gain experience and create tangible results.
8.Develop your consulting skills: Consulting requires strong communication, problem-solving, analytical, and interpersonal skills. Continuously develop these skills through practice, self-study, or by taking courses or workshops.
9.Define your consulting services: Clearly define the services you will offer as a consultant. Determine your target market, the problems you can solve, and the value you can provide to clients. Develop a clear value proposition and articulate it effectively.
10.Establish your business: Decide on the structure of your consulting practice, whether it's a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC). Register your business, obtain necessary licenses or permits, and set up an office or workspace.
11.Market yourself: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your consulting services. Create a professional website, utilize social media platforms, and participate in industry forums or conferences. Leverage your network and ask for referrals from satisfied clients.
12.Deliver exceptional service: Once you start getting clients, deliver high-quality work and exceptional service. Focus on building long-term relationships and generating positive word-of-mouth recommendations.
13.Continuously learn and adapt: Consulting is a dynamic field, and it's important to stay updated with industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving business practices. Invest in ongoing learning and professional development to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Remember, becoming a successful consultant takes time, effort, and persistence. It's important to continuously refine your skills, adapt to changing client needs, and deliver value in a competitive marketplace. Good luck on your journey to becoming a consultant!
1.Identify your area of expertise: Determine the field or industry where you have deep knowledge, skills, and experience.
2.Acquire relevant qualifications: Having educational qualifications or certifications related to your chosen area boosts credibility. Consider pursuing advanced degrees, professional certifications, or specialized training programs continuously during your entire career.
3.Gain practical experience: Build a strong foundation of practical experience by working in your chosen field. Star with working in a relevant job role, interning, or volunteering. Aim for diverse experiences that expose you to different aspects of the industry.
4.Develop a niche: Having a specific niche can set you apart from others. Thus depth of your expertise is more important than breadth of your knowledge.
5.Network extensively: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with individuals who can help you expand your professional network.
6.Mentors - Seek mentors who can offer guidance and advice based on their consulting experience.
7.Build a portfolio of work: Start building a portfolio that showcases your expertise and demonstrates your ability to solve problems. This could include case studies, reports, articles, or presentations. Consider offering pro bono services or taking on small projects to gain experience and create tangible results.
8.Develop your consulting skills: Consulting requires strong communication, problem-solving, analytical, and interpersonal skills. Continuously develop these skills through practice, self-study, or by taking courses or workshops.
9.Define your consulting services: Clearly define the services you will offer as a consultant. Determine your target market, the problems you can solve, and the value you can provide to clients. Develop a clear value proposition and articulate it effectively.
10.Establish your business: Decide on the structure of your consulting practice, whether it's a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC). Register your business, obtain necessary licenses or permits, and set up an office or workspace.
11.Market yourself: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your consulting services. Create a professional website, utilize social media platforms, and participate in industry forums or conferences. Leverage your network and ask for referrals from satisfied clients.
12.Deliver exceptional service: Once you start getting clients, deliver high-quality work and exceptional service. Focus on building long-term relationships and generating positive word-of-mouth recommendations.
13.Continuously learn and adapt: Consulting is a dynamic field, and it's important to stay updated with industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving business practices. Invest in ongoing learning and professional development to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Remember, becoming a successful consultant takes time, effort, and persistence. It's important to continuously refine your skills, adapt to changing client needs, and deliver value in a competitive marketplace. Good luck on your journey to becoming a consultant!
Updated
Kirstin’s Answer
Find what area of expertise you would like to be in and then find an internship with a consulting firm.
Updated
Sydney’s Answer
Top-tier global management consulting firms often provide detailed descriptions of their interview processes and preparation guidelines on their websites. This should be your first stop. Review the case studies available and evaluate whether you find them engaging and enjoyable. If you do, continue your preparation and study. If not, consider changing your direction, as the job closely mirrors the interview process. Remember to engage with your college's career services center. They may have information about recruiting events held by firms visiting campuses, or they may offer other suggestions that have proven successful for students from your institution.
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