The consulting interview process consists of two parts: 1) the behavioral interview and 2) the business case portion.

 

The behavioral interview consists of a “getting to know you” conversation, including questions about experiences listed on your resume, your motivations to become a consultant, your strengths, weaknesses, and experiences working in teams.

 

The case portion of the interview consists of your trying to solve a given business problem; often the scenario presented is one that the consultant has actually faced. During the case portion of the interview (often two back-to-back 30 minutes to 1 hour sessions), interviewees are expected to logically and creatively describe their approaches to the problem. While many Ph.D., Masters, J.D., and Medical degree students possess such problem solving skills (Management consulting encompasses all industries/business issues. A case can therefore focus on any industry—Technology, Finance, Healthcare, Consumer Goods, etc.—or service—Corporate Growth, Competitive Strategy, Operation, Acquisition, etc.) and frequently includes brainteesers such as market sizing, so the ability to coherently and tackle business problems specific to consulting will take practice to master. 

 

This is why the Mount Holyoke Consulting Club provides programming aimed at helping undergraduate applicants confidently approach case studies. With enough determination, our 2-4 hours a week of paired preparation, networking opportunities with company employers, and informational events, you too will be able to enter this exciting industry!

 

 

1. Weekly Education Series—Lecture and video sessions review all aspects of recruiting, from “What is Consulting” to tackling the case interview

2. On-demand Interview Practice in the Pioneer Valley—If you are interested in finding an interview practice partner, then visit here for a 1-minute sign-up. 

3. Offeree Panel—MHCC hosts an annual panel discussion featuring MHC students who have recently received offers from consulting firms.

4. Resume Reviews—bring by your resume for peer editing

5. Women & LGBTQ Networking Events—Receive updates about upcoming diversity recruiting