For case studies, how deep do I have to know the company?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key points to consider for your case study:

1. Depth of Knowledge:

   • It's crucial to know the data cold. This means being thoroughly familiar with the key performance indicators (KPIs), catalyst path, and your unique perspective compared to the consensus.
   • While it's important to have a strong grasp of the major details, you don't necessarily need to know every minute fact about the business as a sell-side analyst might.

2. Presentation:

   • How you present your information is as important as the data itself. Avoid delivering your pitch in a monotone and providing excessive detail that might cause your audience to zone out.
   • Focus on the most critical aspects that will secure investment committee approval.

3. Handling Questions:

   • Be prepared for questions from the investment committee. If they ask something you don't know, it can be uncomfortable, but it's better to admit it and show your willingness to find out rather than guessing.
   • It's more embarrassing to be caught off-guard later in the process, so ensure you understand the core aspects of the business and can answer fundamental questions confidently.

4. Impressing with Finance Skills:

   • If you're not deeply familiar with the industry, impress them with your finance skillset. Demonstrating your ability to analyze and present financial data effectively can be more impactful than knowing every industry-specific detail.

5. Reputation for Asking Questions:

   • Building a reputation for asking simple, clarifying questions can be beneficial. It shows that you are thorough and ensure you understand the material, which can be reputationally helpful.

In summary, focus on knowing the critical data and presenting it effectively. Be prepared to handle questions confidently, and don't be afraid to admit when you don't know something, as long as you show a willingness to find out. Impress with your financial analysis skills and ensure you understand the core aspects of the business.

Sources: You don't know anything— 5 things to do about it, You don't know anything— 5 things to do about it, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/then-and-now-compbanker?customgpt=1, THEN and NOW: @CompBanker, Random Things I Wished I Knew About PE