The case sequence
- Clarify: What decision must be made, for whom, by when, and against which measure?
- Structure: Break the decision into answerable questions.
- Prioritize: State which branch you would test first and why.
- Analyze: Use data, calculations, and business judgment.
- Update: Change the hypothesis when the evidence changes.
- Synthesize: Give the answer first, then the reasons, risk, and next step.
A behavioral answer also has a pyramid
Lead with the answer to the interviewer’s question. Then give only the context needed, explain your own actions, show the result, and end with the lesson. Don't force the interviewer to wait through two minutes of background to discover the point.
The behavioral interview
Behavioral or personal-experience interviews examine leadership, influence, conflict, failure, motivation, and learning. Lead with the answer to the question, provide only necessary context, explain personal actions, and state the result and lesson.
The case interview
A case is a collaborative discussion around a business or organizational problem. The candidate clarifies the decision, structures the problem, analyzes data, calculates, updates the hypothesis, and synthesizes a recommendation.
Clarification
Identify the objective, success measure, time horizon, scope, customer, geography, and constraints. Ask questions that change the structure or first analysis, not every possible fact.
Structure
Build an issue tree tailored to the problem. Explain why the branches matter and where to begin. A memorized framework can omit the actual decision.
Analysis
Interpret exhibits, perform calculations, brainstorm, and request relevant data. State the implication after each step. A correct number without business meaning doesn't advance the case.
Updating
The starting hypothesis is provisional. When evidence changes, revise the view and structure. Interviewer guidance is information, not a sign of failure.
Final synthesis
Use an answer-first pyramid: recommendation, supporting reasons, quantified evidence, principal risk, and next step. Avoid a chronological recap of everything discussed.
Other formats
Processes can include written cases, online cases, role simulations, group exercises, expertise interviews, or technical assessments. The same principles of clear decision framing and evidence apply, but the output can differ.
Candidate questions
Ask about project work, staffing, feedback, practice changes, and development. The interview is also a diligence process for the role.