Getting hired at Cornerstone Research, an economic and financial consulting firm, is a competitive process. Cornerstone Research only accepts around 3-5% of applicants, making it one of the more selective firms to break into. However, with the right qualifications and preparation, it is possible to stand out and successfully get a job.
Cornerstone Research’s Hiring Process
Cornerstone Research has a rigorous recruitment process to find the best candidates. Here is an overview of what to expect when applying to Cornerstone Research:
– Submit an online application with resume, cover letter, transcript, and writing sample. Only around 10% of applicants make it past this initial screening.
– If selected, complete a coding test sent via email. This further screens applicants’ analytical abilities.
– Next is a phone interview with a recruiter to assess communication skills and interest in the firm.
– Candidates who advance are then given a case interview, done either in-person or over video. The case interview evaluates problem solving abilities and fit for the job.
– Finally, top candidates are invited to a Super Day at one of Cornerstone’s offices. This on-site interview day consists of 4-6 more case interviews plus meetings with staff. An offer is extended shortly after to successful candidates.
Getting through each step is challenging and only a small subset of applicants ultimately receive offers. But going in prepared can optimize your chances.
Cornerstone Research’s Ideal Candidate Qualifications
What does Cornerstone Research look for in potential hires? Here are the key qualifications and attributes they target:
– **Strong academic record** – Cornerstone values high achievers coming from top universities. While no specific GPA cutoff is stated, a GPA of at least 3.5 from an elite school is typical of successful applicants. Demonstrating coursework in economics, finance, statistics, or hard sciences is preferred.
– **Analytical and problem solving abilities** – Logical, structured thinking and quantitative skills are vital. Candidates need to show they can break down complex issues and solve challenges. The case interviews specifically test this.
– **Communication and presentation aptitude** – Clearly expressing analysis and telling a compelling story with data is crucial at Cornerstone. They look for candidates who can communicate well both verbally and in writing.
– **Technical expertise** – Proficiency in data analysis programs like R, Stata, SQL or Python is a plus. Most new hires have programming knowledge and experience crunching numbers.
– **Passion for economics** – An innate interest in markets, financial modeling and applying economic theory is ideal. Many employees have Master’s degrees or PhDs in Economics, Finance or related disciplines.
While Cornerstone certainly wants bright candidates with solid technical skills, they also evaluate for culture fit. Candidates should demonstrate curiosity, intellectual engagement beyond just academics, and the ability to work collaboratively. Standing out requires bringing both hard skills and soft skills.
Preparing for Cornerstone’s Interviews and Assessments
Mastering the interview process is key to getting an offer from Cornerstone. Thorough preparation and practice are essential. Here are some tips:
– **Research the firm** – Learn Cornerstone’s services, practice areas, company culture and news/trends in the consulting industry. This shows motivation.
– **Practice case interviews** – Seek out case books, online resources and partners to do mock interviews. Many applicants do at least 20-30 cases to prepare. Mastering the case method is vital.
– **Review technical skills** – Brush up on any programming languages or data tools you may need to demonstrate. You may receive a technical skills test at the start of the process.
– **Prepare stories and examples** – Come up with clear stories highlighting your skills, achievements and motivations. Use the STAR method (situation, task, action, result) when framing responses.
– **Study behavioral questions** – Many of the interviews, especially the final Super Day, will include behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge.” Develop stories ahead of time using the STAR method.
With extensive preparation, candidates can go into Cornerstone’s recruiting process feeling ready to succeed. Dedicating the time needed to practice cases, technical tests and interview questions is the best way to maximize your chances.
Standing Out as an Applicant
Simply meeting the basic requirements will not be enough – you need to stand out. Here are some tips for getting noticed:
– **Highlight unique experiences** – Cornerstone appreciates well-rounded candidates. Play up experiences outside academics like interesting internships, research projects, sports, community service and leadership roles.
– **Get referrals** – Employees who refer candidates often get a bonus if their referral is hired. Seek out current Cornerstone staff who could provide an internal recommendation.
– **Network** – Attend consulting mixers, company info sessions, conferences and other networking events to connect with Cornerstone reps and demonstrate interest.
– **Show passion for the work** – Let Cornerstone see your genuine excitement for economic consulting and eagerness to take on complex challenges. Enthusiasm goes a long way.
– **Ace the writing sample** – Cornerstone looks for candidates who can write clearly and persuasively. Choose a strong paper or report that highlights your communication abilities.
– **Follow up** – After interviews, send thank you notes reemphasizing your fit and interest. Follow up if you don’t hear back to politely check on status. Persistence can pay off.
Going above and beyond to show Cornerstone why you are an ideal candidate for the role can help push your application over the top. Distinguishing yourself requires creativity, preparation, persistence and passion.
Acceptance Rate Comparison
To provide perspective on Cornerstone’s selectivity, here is a comparison of acceptance rates with other top firms and programs:
Firm / Institution | Acceptance Rate |
Cornerstone Research | ~3-5% |
McKinsey & Company | ~1% |
Bain & Company | ~2% |
Harvard Law School | 12.8% |
Harvard Business School | 12.2% |
Goldman Sachs | ~3-5% |
As the table shows, Cornerstone’s acceptance rate is on par with top management and investment banking firms. Getting hired is similarly challenging. The low rate underscores the need to take the recruiting process seriously and be fully prepared.
Profile of a Successful Candidate
To synthesize the above, here is a profile displaying what a typical successful Cornerstone Research candidate looks like:
– Graduated with a 3.8 GPA from an Ivy League or other top 10 university
– Majored in Economics, Finance, Statistics, Engineering or Physics
– Completed advanced coursework in econometrics and financial analysis
– Held 1-2 internships in consulting, finance or economic research
– Gained programming skills/experience in R, Python or other data tools
– Scored 700+ on GMAT or GRE exams
– Networked with current employees to get an internal referral
– Practiced extensively for the case and technical interviews
– Exhibited strong communication skills in interviews
– Demonstrated passion for Cornerstone’s consulting work
– Sent thoughtful thank you notes after each interview
This composite shows what Going into the process looking similar to this ideal candidate profile will maximize your potential for landing a job at Cornerstone Research.
Conclusion
In summary, getting a job at elite consulting firm Cornerstone Research is very competitive with only a small fraction of applicants receiving offers. However, coming from a top university background, displaying strong technical skills, acing the case interviews, differentiating yourself, and demonstrating passion for their work can help maximize your chances of being one of the few to receive an offer. While challenging, with the right qualifications and preparation, breaking into Cornerstone Research is achievable. Persistence through a demanding process can lead to rewarding work at the intersection of economics, finance and consulting.