Case Interview Presentation: Zoom/Online platform

Case Interview
New answer on Mar 09, 2021
9 Answers
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Anonymous A asked on Mar 06, 2021

Hello,

When presenting a case through a zoom/online plaftform should we remain seated throughout the call and present the case ? or should we stand up and present the case as this could showcase the body language as well?. (sounds funny but curious to know which is a better option).

Regards

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Ian
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replied on Mar 06, 2021
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

Funny question indeed! Haven't hear this one before.

Please stay seated! I understand the impulse/urge, but this is very much a normal interview. As such you should remain seated!

Here are some general tips for virtual interviews:

  • Make sure you have a strong internet connection
  • Make sure your sound+video work
  • Get multiple monitors so you can look at 3 things at once (1 screen makes thought linear which is tough),
  • Have a good desk space and keep using paper for solving the case,
  • Make sure you'll be in a quiet space with no distractions
  • Still dress for the occasion
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Clara
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replied on Mar 07, 2021
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

Had never thought of this one :)

I would actually stay seatted, mirroring what a normal interview in the pre-covid area would have looked like.

Even when seatted, particularly when you have the web cam on top of the screen, you can accompany your message very effectively with body language.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

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Francesco
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replied on Mar 07, 2021
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Not sure which would be the concrete advantage if you stand up. Also, the interviewer will probably find it quite weird if you do so.

Face-to-face interviews are also conducted seated normally. So I would recommend remaining seated, as you would do in an actual face-to-face interview. You can demonstrate good body language skills also in this way.

Best,

Francesco

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Anonymous replied on Mar 07, 2021

That's a good one! Short answer: Don't do it. Just as you wouldn't stand up in a real interview for your recommendation, don't do it in a zoom interview. It will be a very awkward moment.

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Adi
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replied on Mar 07, 2021
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience

Keep it simple and do it sitting :).

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Denis
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replied on Mar 07, 2021
Goldman Sachs Investment Banker NYC | Ex-Bain 5 yrs| MBA Chicago Booth | Passed > 13 MBB > 20 IB interviews

Do not stand up and do not do something out of the ordinary please.

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Udayan
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replied on Mar 09, 2021
Top rated Case & PEI coach/Multiple real offers/McKinsey EM in New York /12 years recruiting experience

Seated - it is very difficult to properly communicate via video vs in person as is. Stick to what is acceptable and expected.

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Gaurav
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replied on Mar 08, 2021
#1 Career Coach for Aspiring, Practicing & Ex-Consultants|The Only 360° Coach - Ex-Mckinsey, Certified Coach & Recruiter

Hi there,

It’s indeed a good question. I would stay seated. And don’t forget to follow the main rules of the online interview:
1. Eliminate Distractions
2. Find a Neutral Background
3.Test Your Gear
4. Dress up Professionally
5. Keep using paper for solving the case

Good luck,
GB

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Luca
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replied on Mar 08, 2021
BCG |NASA | SDA Bocconi & Cattolica partner | GMAT expert 780/800 score | 200+ students coached

Hello,

I would recommend to remain seated since it's the standard way of presenting during meetings that consultants are used to join.

Best,
luca

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Ian gave the best answer

Ian

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