CGN Global Consultant Interview Questions
& Process

First up, there's a phone interview with HR to check your basic communication skills and understand your work visa needs if you're a lawful immigrant. Then, a second phone interview with a Sr. Manager or Partner in the relevant area, possibly because you're being eyed for a specific project. They'll dive into your experience and knowledge in your field. Finally, the on-site part, which has two rounds plus a case study presentation. This is probably the last step where you'll come to the office for a face-to-face chat. You might face multiple interview panels with managers or partners from different departments assessing your skills to see if you fit their teams. The case study presentation is pretty standard for consulting firms. They're looking at your analytical abilities, how you think, and how you present. Since you're aiming for a consultant role, don't stress too much about making your slides look amazing. Consulting firms, especially the big ones, make money from those fancy presentations.

I saw the contract position advertised and it seemed to fit my career goals. After an initial HR screening where they confirmed the contract option was available, a firm partner interviewed me over the phone. They seemed happy and expressed interest in a face-to-face interview, for which I was asked to present a real-life case study. At the onsite interview, which seemed to follow the same procedure for contract and full-time roles, I first met with the same partner for a 30-minute chat about my background, career goals, and interests. Next, I had a group interview with three other partners. The first 30 minutes involved discussing my resume, but the discussion got stuck on the level of detail for my projects. I felt my project presentations were concise, and I was pushed for more information, which made me uncomfortable. One partner asked for the name of my end client, which I mentioned inadvertently. Another partner used a "stress interview" tactic to ask about my salary. The final step was my case study presentation, which I thought went well, especially with the real-world questions. I left with the impression that the firm might use the interview process to find other opportunities for themselves. I was not offered the position, with the reason given being "they have decided to proceed in the other direction." My travel expenses were reimbursed promptly.

I spoke with a recruiter initially, then a manager called me on the phone. We met in person for the final round which involved a case study and questions from several managers. During the process, I was asked behavioral questions and also some that tested my problem-solving abilities. The team was very helpful and friendly.