I just had a case interview. The case was about a spark plug manufacturer. I, at least, got credit for being able to recognize a spark plug, and recognizing that each engine probably has about 6 of them (minus the diesels of course).
The case was to project future profitability based on a switch from copper to platinum plugs. Given a graph, I did what I usually do when given a graph and not much information. I study the graph and derive information from it. Give me a frequency response or a bode plot or any other standard engineering graph and I’ll tell you about your system. Stupid me. I should have just asked about the underlying data. “What’s the per unit profit in each case?” At which point I would have been told and moved merrily on my way.
Way to overthink it Nobrainer. Next time, try to think like a businessman.
Oh well, I already won an iPod from these people. Maybe the fact that I was able to beat out a bunch of Ivy Leaguers will help my cause get me a 2nd interview. If not? Well then I’ll just have to stick to engineering. Woe is me.
UPDATE: Ain’t that something? Have one interview, don’t get called back. Blow one, get called back. Well I guess I’m going to suck ass tomorrow. This much I promise you.
Wha Says:
how much for the iPod?