Mistake made during case study

Hi guys, had a quick question, had a cast study for a banking lateral program yesterday and I was walking through the case, the MD I was interviewing with pointed out that I did not properly input my calculations for CAPEX, it was a formula/mathematical error essentially.

The MD said it was not a big deal but i think he was being polite and wanted to move on as it was just me and him in the group.

Been freaking out about this since then and I wanted to find out for anyone that has been on the other side and if this is an automatic ding or if there is still a chance assuming that I aced the other stages of interviews with VPs and Directors, as i was essentially fast tracked because I interviewed with them so well.

What do you guys think? let me know if you have any questions

4 Comments
 

Hey there, don't let this hiccup get you down! We all make mistakes, especially under pressure. It's how we handle them that matters.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems that a single mistake in a case study, especially a mathematical one, is not necessarily a deal-breaker. It's important to remember that the interviewers are looking at your overall performance, not just one specific area.

In the PE case study thread, it was mentioned that significant mistakes like a 3-statement model not working could be an immediate ding. However, a minor error in CAPEX calculations might not be as critical, especially if you've demonstrated strong skills in other areas.

In the Q&A - 1Y at Bain thread, the interviewee made a small mistake in a market sizing calculation but still received an offer because they caught and corrected the error.

So, don't lose hope! If you've performed well in other stages and made a positive impression, this one mistake might not be as detrimental as you fear. Keep your chin up and fingers crossed!

Sources: Q&A - 1Y at Bain, PE case study mistakes, Mistakes in pitches / models - who is responsible, Interview Failures

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

We know virtually nothing about the case study, error, firm, competition, or your other interviews. Your perception of how things went isn't very useful. Candidates often suck at judging how their interviews went (myself included)

This thread is a product of your anxiety, right? I get it, but it makes no sense to worry about stuff you can't change. Someone's anonymous feedback won't impact the outcome and shouldn't affect your mood.

Channel that nervous energy into other processes and your modeling skills.

 

VP in IB-M&A:

We know virtually nothing about the case study, error, firm, competition, or your other interviews. Your perception of how things went isn't very useful. Candidates often suck at judging how their interviews went (myself included)



This thread is a product of your anxiety, right? I get it, but it makes no sense to worry about stuff you can't change. Someone's anonymous feedback won't impact the outcome and shouldn't affect your mood.



Channel that nervous energy into other processes and your modeling skills.


nothing to add here but just wanted to say great response

 

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