From the moment you’re on the phone with a hiring manager to the final in-person interview, your interview skills both online and in-person must be top notch. Learn more about the different types of interviews and how to best prepare for them below.
What is a Behavioral Interview?
A behavioral interview is a type of job interview that focuses on how a candidate has handled various work situations in the past. The idea is that past behavior is the best predictor of future performance.
- Question Style:
Interviewers ask questions that begin with phrases like:- “Tell me about a time when…”
- “Give an example of…”
- “Describe a situation where…”
- Focus Areas:
These questions often target skills such as:- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Conflict resolution
- Adaptability
- Answer Format:
Candidates are encouraged to use the STARS method:- Situation – Describe the context.
- Task – Explain the challenge or goal.
- Action – Detail the steps you took.
- Result – Share the outcome.
- Strengths – Tie it back to your individual competencies
What is a Case Interview?
A case interview is a type of job interview commonly used in consulting, strategy, and analytical roles. It involves presenting the candidate with a business scenario or problem and asking them to analyze it, propose solutions, and walk through their thought process.
- Problem-Solving Focus: Candidates are evaluated on how they approach complex, often ambiguous business challenges.
- Real-World Scenarios: The case might involve market entry, profitability analysis, pricing strategy, operations improvement, or mergers and acquisitions.
- Interactive Format: Interviewers may ask follow-up questions, provide new data, or challenge assumptions during the discussion.
- Structured Thinking: Candidates are expected to break down the problem logically, often using frameworks like:
- SWOT analysis
- Porter’s Five Forces
- Profitability trees
- Market sizing techniques
- Check out CaseCoach, The #1 platform for case interview prep, CaseCoach provides everything you need for case interview success.
- Case Questions, created by the world’s leading authority on case interviews, Marc Cosentino, teaches graduate students how to master case interviews to win jobs at top firms. (Log-in with your Babson email to gain access to materials)
- Listen to this podcast episode with Marc Cosentino all about case interviewing Case Interviews with Marc Cosentino
Network & Interview Coaching
Sign up for a practice interview with one of our experienced Grad CCD Interview Coaches!
These volunteers specialize in helping you prepare for interviews by conducting a realistic mock interview, giving you the chance to practice and receive feedback in a simulated setting.
Unlike career advisors—who support a wide range of career topics such as job search strategies and career exploration—our Interview Coaches focus exclusively on sharpening your interview skills so you can feel confident and prepared.
There are 3 Types of Practice Interviews for graduate students to choose from:
3 Types of Practice Interviews
This practice allows you to refine your responses, build confidence, and receive constructive feedback from an experienced coach.
During this simulation, you’ll engage in conversations that mimic real-world networking scenarios, helping you learn how to introduce yourself, ask insightful questions, and build rapport with potential connections.
An intensive practice session designed for candidates looking to refine their interview skills at a higher level. In this scenario, you’ll engage with complex, scenario-based questions that challenge you to demonstrate your critical thinking, leadership abilities, and problem-solving skills. Feedback will focus on your ability to articulate experiences clearly and effectively, as well as your overall presentation.
