using sticky notes during case interview

Question

long story short, I exposed myself using sticky notes on my monitor during a case interview. I'd like to know MBB's policy on banning people due to violations.

today I was doing my R1 interview. when I finished my first one I went to the second one but there was no one in the meeting. the recruiter messaged me asking where I was and I took a photo of my screen showing I was in the zoom waiting room. I didn't realize I also included my sticky notes on the monitor in that photo, and I wasn't able to unsend the photo when I realized it. the recruiter didn't say anything, but i know i'm done.

Here's what's on my notes: 1) reminder to consider pros & cons of brainstorming ideas (ended up not using), 2) list of bullet points to ask for clarification questions (which I actually didn't ask), 3) reminder to consider cannibalization in a M&A case (that I didn't get), and 4) reminder to consider product segmentations when given a generic description (which wasn't in the case).

there were no notes of any structures/frameworks/math/detailed solutions. i actually didn't use any of those notes during the interview but there were included in the photo.

my questions: 1) is this considered "bringing prepared notes" to an interview? i know this probably is but would like to doublecheck. 2) since I already exposed myself to the recruiter, how long does MBB ban people from interviewing? Am I gonna get blacklisted for my life? 3) will the firm spread words throughout the industry?

Answer 1

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about your slip-up!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

First of all, yes - this would generally fall under the category of "bringing prepared notes". Even if they weren’t detailed or used during the case study, the expectation is a clean desk and screen.
Moreover, based on what you shared, the content of the notes sounds generic and non-specific. Most likely, this will not lead to a permanent blacklist. I would strongly advise you to wait before following up - there is no need to reopen the topic unless they bring it up.
Lastly, no - consulting firms are of course not allowed to share these cases with each other. I would advise you to not let this event stop you from applying elsewhere or again in the future.

You can find more on this topic here: How to deal with a rejection from a consulting company.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Answer 2

Hello there,

You may be overthinking this situation. Your notes were not like a cheat sheet, just reminders to yourself, based on what you have written. No one here can guarantee that this will or will not have consequences, but using common sense only, I would say that you will probably be Ok, really.
Be cool about it, do not bring about the topic to HR and whenever you think about the issue try to distract yourself from it so you don’t get anxious.

Good luck!

Best,

Mari

Answer 3

I personally wouldn't have cared that you had some sticky notes in the screen, it's possible the interviewer didn't even give it that much thought either. Obviously there is a low chance that he thought it's an issue, but if you aced your interviews, I wouldn't worry about it that much :).

Answer 4

Hi there,

You're not disqualified, and you're definitely not blacklisted for life.

Yes, technically having sticky notes visible counts as bringing prepared notes, even if you didn’t use them. Firms expect a clean setup, especially for virtual interviews.
It's very unlikely you’ll be banned permanently. At worst, they might ask you to reapply in 12–24 months. The notes were general, not solutions or frameworks, and the photo was accidental—that context matters.
No, firms don’t share this kind of info across the industry. One firm's internal notes won't follow you to another.

You made a mistake, and you’re clearly reflecting on it with integrity. Many people have missteps and still get offers. If the recruiter brings it up, explain calmly and truthfully. You’ve got more chances ahead.

Let me know if you need further support.

Best,

Evelina

Answer 5

Sorry to hear.

But I wouldn't be so concerned about it.

If they ask, I would be open about it, and say that you build those notes to help yourself during the interview.

As long as you're collaborative and honest, nobody is going to make a big deal of it.

I'd be surprised if you receive a temporary ban.

And no, I doubt you'll get a permanent ban. And I'm certain that you won't get a consulting industry ban - something like this doesn't even exist.

Hope this sorts itself out smoothly.

Best,
Cristian

Answer 6

To answer your questions directly:

1) Probably not, I doubt they’ll mind too much about something this minor

2) You won’t be banned

3) Absolutely not. Nobody has time for this! And consulting firms don’t really talk to each other anyway.