Hi there,

Q: Can an excellent fit cover up for a small shortcoming in the case performance? 

To pass the interview you have to perform well in both fit and case. Please note that often candidates have the wrong perception of their own performance on the case, so what you considered as a shortcoming might have not been an issue in the end.

Good luck!

Francesco

Dear Anonymous A.,

How are we defining a “small shortcoming”?

If you hit the mark on the major assessment criteria: structuring the problem, demonstrating sufficient understanding of the Case problem and context, engaging in rigorous brainstorming, showcasing logic in quantitative analysis & synthesis, driving the narrative in a robust fashion with little prodding, and giving insightful recommendations at the conclusion of the Case (not an exhaustive list!), then you can still have a shortcoming and pass the cut-off score for the Case portion.

And you would be fine.

But, here's what I think you're asking: is it possible to slightly underperform below the Case cut-off which would constitute ‘failing’ the Case (even if only by the slightest of “shortcomings”), but still be saved by an excellent Fit section?

No. It would not suffice.

If I wanted to hire a replacement for David Attenborough, I would naturally want a life scientist with an impeccable track record as a minimum hiring criteria AND a passion for storytelling. 
But no matter how good of a storyteller he is, if his knowledge of the relevant science has critical gaps here and there that deprive it of the sought exceptionalism, then regardless of his storytelling prowess, he wouldn't get the role.

(edited)

Hi,

I'm really sorry as this isn't the answer you're hoping for, but no.

Alas, these firms are not hiring for half a consultant. They want a full one.

You 100% absolutely have to perform well on the case in order to get the job.

If you're struggling, consider hiring a coach.

Here's some reading to help you as well:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/how-to-shift-your-mindset-to-ace-the-case

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/pitfalls-case-interview-preparation

Hi there,

the ideal candidates are excellent in both the fit and the case portions. If both are only average, the candidate typically does not get an offer. 

If one is strong and the other is only average, then there is a discussion to be had among the interviewers. This also factors in how the peer group performed during the same interview cycle.

It would really depend on what the “small shortcomings” in the case were. Reacting to interviewer feedback during the case and potentially re-thinking one's intially faulty approach can also be viewed as a good thing in the end.

All the best

Short answer: No.

Long answer: No, never.

Now more seriously. If it is just a small shortcoming in a specific aspect, the rest of the case performance itself should compensate for that.

But very clearly: an “average” performer in case interviews does not get an offer. A good performance gets it with a good FIT gets it. A great performance with a small shortcoming on something that is coachable + a good Fit interview gets it. 

(edited)

Hello,

I wouldn't think of it in this way. To pass the interview, candidates have to do well in both case and fit. However, you will be assessed comprehensively on all aspects of your application (CV, cover letter, several case and fit interviews), so a small shortcoming in one portion does not necessarily mean you will be rejected. I wouldn't think of it as using the fit portion to compensate for a shortcoming in the case portion though - you want to do well in both, but don't worry too much if there is a small shortcoming somewhere. Even successful candidates can have some slight imperfections in their interviews, it happens to everyone.