Application Process & Interviews at Partners in Performance

Submit --> Phone Screen --> Case 1 --> Case 2 --> Case 3 --> Case 4 --> Offer

The interview process is tough, consisting of 1 phone and 4 case study interviews with Managers, Principals and Directors. Regardless of how tough they were, they were all in all an excellent development experience and generally one of the more enjoyable interviews I've experienced. The case studies are not the typical strategy consulting examples, being more focused on the practical, operational side that the firm prides itself on. After the 2nd round of interviews, a social with members of the firm were held for the top candidates to really see what the firms all about!

Several rounds of interviews, initially with less senior employees and Recruiting. Final round interviews with Directors, preceded by final round dinner the evening before.

Leadership and problem solving questions. Why I am interested in a career in management consulting

The interviews were structured like a standard consulting interview. Half an hour of a case study, followed by half an hour of some standard interview questions. Questions include, "Why do you want to do consulting?", "Give examples of delivering exceptional results", and a few situational questions on how you would deal with difficult clients.

Here is business problem, how would you fix X?

A mix of typical "tell me about yourself" questions and very structured case studies.

Practice case studies and mental arithmetic

Practice case studies, there are lots of amazing resources online that will help your cause. Specifically, look into value driver trees and issue trees as a way to structure your thinking. Get some friends to help you out, as I did to take you through questions to get you thinking in a structured manner. Most importantly however, is be genuine and be honest. Don't pretend to be someone you think the interviewer wants you to be. The firm is full of quirky and interesting personalities which is why it is such a great place to work!

Read "Case in Point"

Develop a compelling narrative for yourself explaining why you are interested in the work. Learn key stats about the company, e.g. number of employees, and practice case studies extensively.