You do not need consulting experience to administer a useful practice case. Your role is to present the case clearly, follow the interviewer instructions, observe the candidate, and provide specific feedback afterward.
Before the Case
- Review the case: Understand the prompt, exhibits, calculations, and expected solution.
- Prepare materials: Keep exhibits and interviewer notes organized.
- Agree on focus areas: Ask whether the candidate wants particular feedback on structure, math, communication, or another skill.
During the Case
- Read the prompt exactly: Avoid adding information unless instructed.
- Let the candidate think: Do not fill every silence.
- Provide data when appropriate: Follow the case guide rather than improvising unnecessarily.
- Avoid excessive coaching: Allow the candidate to experience realistic difficulty.
- Take notes: Record specific strong and weak behaviors.
After the Case
Ask the candidate to assess their own performance first. Then provide feedback on the most important dimensions.
- Structure: Was the approach logical and prioritized?
- Analysis: Were calculations and exhibits handled effectively?
- Insight: Did the candidate explain what findings meant?
- Communication: Were answers clear and concise?
- Recommendation: Was the conclusion direct and supported?
Final principle: A good practice interviewer does not need to imitate a consultant perfectly. Follow the case consistently, observe carefully, and give specific feedback that helps the candidate improve the next attempt.
