Qu'est-ce que Business Case Interview ?
Definition
A business case interview is a selection exercise in which the candidate is presented with a real or realistic business problem — a market entry decision, a cost-reduction challenge, an operational issue — and asked to analyse it and present recommendations, typically within a constrained timeframe. It is used extensively in consulting, strategy, investment banking and senior commercial roles.
In practice
Business case formats vary: a 30-minute individual case solved in the room, a 24-hour take-home case, or a live case discussion with the interviewer asking probing questions throughout. Assessors observe the candidate's structuring ability (do they decompose the problem systematically?), analytical rigour (do they identify and test the key assumptions?), synthesis (do they reach clear, prioritised recommendations?), and communication (do they explain complex logic simply?). Preparation involves practising case frameworks (MECE structuring, profit trees, market sizing), improving mental arithmetic, and conducting mock cases. The goal is not necessarily to find the "right" answer but to demonstrate clear, logical reasoning under pressure.
Key takeaway
Assessors care more about how you think than what you conclude — a well-structured approach with a defensible recommendation beats a rushed "correct" answer reached without rigour.
Définitions connexes
Technical Test
Practical exercise assessing a candidate's specific technical skills relevant to the job — coding test, design brief, writing sample, financial model.
Structured Interview
Interview format using a predefined set of identical questions for all candidates, scored against standardised criteria, to maximise fairness and predictive validity.
Assessment Centre
Standardised evaluation method combining multiple exercises (role plays, case studies, group exercises, psychometric tests) to assess candidates' competencies.