subject: Apprehend And Win In A Case Interview [print this page] A job interview conducted in a way similar to a discussion is known as a case interview. The main focus is to find an individual or group of individuals having the right set of characteristics. Seeking correct answer is usually on the back-burner, but some interviewers might want that as well. The skills which are searched for in such selection process include asking questions, analytical ability etc.
The appellant has to look forward towards gathering as much information about the problem as possible and make sense of it. How the available resources can be used to tackle the issue at hand has to be advised by the appellant. Various character traits of the job seeker are studied during the process by the interviewers. How well the job aspirant analysis the problem and what approach is followed for its resolution is checked.
In most of the cases, the management firms or investment banking institutions conduct selection in this fashion. They are more concerned about skills rather than academic excellence. In addition to that, they may or may not want the correct solution, but the correct approach.
The skills tested in such selection processes include analysis, communication skills and understanding of business processes. How good or bad a job aspirant is in reasoning is checked. Apart from that, whether the individual is able to make sense of business related data is checked out.
These interviews are invariably held in groups as well. A certain number of individuals are made to deliberate over a given business related scenario. An interviewer watches the proceedings from a distance but notes how each one of them is performing.
The interviewer takes cognizance of traits of all of the candidates present in the discussion. A call on whether or not to be an active participant in the discussion process has to be taken by the interviewer.
To fare well in the discussion process, one needs to brush up the skills. One needs to refer to plenty of books and other resources that can be helpful in preparation of the interview. Grasp over the major subjects is an absolute must. Apart from that, one has to practice the job related questions and pondering over business scenarios.
Harder the effort put in for practice, higher is the possibility of clearing a case interview. One should face the interviewers with full confidence and ask questions related to the topic under question. It helps to be creative and be good in brainstorming any idea.
