Is it a red flag to not be MECE in your structure in a first round interview? What are the red flags in an interview, especially with an MBB?

Common Red flags I look for:

1. Too defensive / married to a hypothesis. Shows lack of coachability.
2. Unreasonably confident in an anaysis when the appropriate data wasn't available (i.e. too "gut feel" oriented -- leave that job to the CEO). Shows lack of empathy / self-awareness.
3. Not MECE enough, OR far too focused on being MECE so much so that everything feels over-structured and robotic. Shows lack of originality.
4. Very "list oriented" vs bucket oriented - similar to point #3. Shows lack of structured thinking.
5. Error in analytics - shows lack of focus
6. Executive presense (depending on level) -- shows lack of confidence / comfort with oneself.
7. Weak personal stories -- shows lack of real-world experience / lack of self-reflection.

Not only is this a red flag - not being MECE will usually be the kiss of death and ensure you are not invited back for a 2nd round. This is just one of the many reasons why we always tell you guys to take a full 60 to 90 seconds to really hone your initial structure. Time spent here is an investment, will save you many minutes of anguish later in the case... and might be the difference between coming back or not. You have to be MECE, absolutely!

Thx,

G.

ex-BCG Dallas

I particpated in a case challenge and it was a red flag, if MECE was not followed.