Clarifying question during brainstorming

brainstorming
New answer on Oct 31, 2023
7 Answers
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Anonymous A asked on Jul 24, 2021

Is it ok to ask a clarifying question after you start brainstorming? For eg if you are brainstorming ways to increase revenues and want to suggest they explore new markets/locations and you hadn't asked where they currently operate in your clarifying Qs (before structuring the case), is it okay to ask this once you think of it during brainstorming?

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Florian
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replied on Jul 26, 2021
Highest-rated McKinsey coach (ratings, offers, sessions) | 500+ offers | Author of The 1% & Consulting Career Secrets

Hey there,

There is a simple rule: Always ask questions whenever you feel it would improve the quality of your outcome / answers.

So, yes - go ahead! :-)

Cheers,

Florian

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Cristian
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replied on Oct 31, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach

Of course. 

If you have a question that would better position you to answer the interviewer's question or to clarify its scope, then you should definitely ask it. 

In general, anything that makes the interview feel more like a conversation is a move in the right direction. 

Best,
Cristian

 

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Ian
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replied on Jul 25, 2021
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

Absolutely! You should always look to treat a case as more of a conversation than anything. If asking a question will help you get more focused, answer the question better, etc., you should absolutely ask!

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Anonymous B replied on Jul 24, 2021

YES!

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Allen
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replied on Jul 25, 2021
Ex-McK Experienced Hire and EM - I show you how to perform at your best

Yes!

Just like in real life, if you're not sure about the question, you need to ask before you try to answer.  Throughout the case, you can always ask. (There is a proper way to ask, but that's a separate question.

And you can always take time before you answer, which is a related question.

Hope that helps!

Allen

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Adi
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replied on Jul 25, 2021
Accenture, Deloitte | Precision Case Prep | Experienced Interviewer & Career Coach | 15 years professional experience

Absolutely yes!

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Francesco
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replied on Jul 25, 2021
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ interviewoffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi there,

Yes, better late than never ;)

Clarifying the revenue model is a good question to ask at the beginning, but you can definitely ask it later if you forget.

A possible way to phrase this is the following: “Before going deeper with area XYZ, I believe it would be interesting to know ABC, so that I can identify more easily relevant options for it. Do we have any information on that?"

Best,

Francesco

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Florian gave the best answer

Florian

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