Management consulting is highly competitive. Firms look for structured thinking, commercial awareness, leadership, and communication. The application process is demanding — most large firms use online tests, video interviews, case interviews, and assessment centres. Starting preparation early is essential.
What consultants do
Management consultants work with organisations to solve business problems, improve performance, and implement change. Projects can range from cost reduction strategies to digital transformation to market entry planning. Consultants typically work in project teams, present to senior clients, and manage multiple workstreams at once. Entry-level roles in large firms typically start as Analyst or Business Analyst.
The case interview
The case interview is unique to consulting. In a case interview you are given a business problem and asked to work through it out loud with the interviewer. You need to structure your thinking, ask clarifying questions, do rough calculations, and arrive at a reasoned recommendation. Case interviews require significant practice — most successful candidates prepare for 30 to 50 cases before interviewing at major firms.
Online assessments
Most consulting firms use numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and situational judgement tests at the online stage. McKinsey uses the Imbellus game-based assessment. BCG uses the Casey chatbot case. Prepare specifically for the format used by the firm you are applying to.
How to prepare
Start with commercial awareness. Know what is happening in the industries your target firms advise. Practise cases using resources like Case in Point, PrepLounge, or with a partner. Build your STAR examples for competency questions. Research your target firms — their practice areas, recent projects, and stated values.
Checklist
- Practise case interviews using a partner or online platform
- Build and maintain commercial awareness
- Research target firms' online assessment formats
- Prepare STAR examples for competency interviews
- Attend employer events and networking sessions
Common mistakes to avoid
- Underestimating the case interview and not practising enough
- Not building commercial awareness before interviews
- Applying without genuine understanding of what consultants do day-to-day