8 answers
Theo
Student
Minneapolis, Minnesota
1
Question
Asked
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What's one of the best things someone can do to help break into consulting?
I'm at Ohio State right now and wondering how I break into the field.
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8 answers
Rinku Kanwar
Software Architect
2
Answers
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Updated
Rinku’s Answer
Build a strong professional network: Connect with consultants and industry professionals.
Build your technical skills: Develop expertise in relevant technologies.
Find a mentor: Seek guidance from experienced consultants.
Attend technical events/hackathons: Expand your knowledge and network.
Build technical eminence: Establish yourself as a knowledgeable figure in your area of expertise.
Build your technical skills: Develop expertise in relevant technologies.
Find a mentor: Seek guidance from experienced consultants.
Attend technical events/hackathons: Expand your knowledge and network.
Build technical eminence: Establish yourself as a knowledgeable figure in your area of expertise.
Colby Johnson
Consultant
8
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Colby’s Answer
Do some research on the different types of consulting that you can do. Consulting is a very broad term. Consider what you want to consult somebody on? (Technology, marketing, finance, strategy, etc.) You can think about what you've learned in school and what you have valuable advice / thoughts / opinions on.
Then, who are you consulting? (Individuals? Businesses? What kind of businesses?)
Although this is a step in a different direction, getting experience in a particular field is one of the BEST ways to crack into consulting. You'll have knowledge and experience of a certain industry or job, and can easily use that to become a consultant who helps others with similar things.
There are MANY companies who provide consulting services. Doing some initial job searching to see what kind of consulting jobs are out there might help you start determining what type of consulting role you are interested in.
Then, who are you consulting? (Individuals? Businesses? What kind of businesses?)
Although this is a step in a different direction, getting experience in a particular field is one of the BEST ways to crack into consulting. You'll have knowledge and experience of a certain industry or job, and can easily use that to become a consultant who helps others with similar things.
There are MANY companies who provide consulting services. Doing some initial job searching to see what kind of consulting jobs are out there might help you start determining what type of consulting role you are interested in.
Vikrant C
Risk Assurance and Compliance
1
Answer
Austin, Texas
Updated
Vikrant’s Answer
Starting a career in consulting straight out of college is an excellent way to gain exposure to a wide range of clients and industries.
Begin by identifying a specific area of consulting that aligns with your interests, background, or skill set—such as management consulting, technology consulting, risk advisory, or cybersecurity consulting. Focusing on a niche can help you build targeted expertise that complements your strengths.
In addition, it's important to develop universally valued skills such as problem-solving, communication, and analytical thinking. Practicing case studies and participating in mock interviews can be particularly effective in preparing for the consulting interview process.
Finally, networking plays a crucial role. Attend as many career fairs and recruiting events as possible, and engage with professionals from various consulting firms to learn about the services they offer and the qualities they seek in candidates. Reaching out to current consultants can also provide valuable insights into their roles and the skills that helped them succeed.
Best of luck!
Begin by identifying a specific area of consulting that aligns with your interests, background, or skill set—such as management consulting, technology consulting, risk advisory, or cybersecurity consulting. Focusing on a niche can help you build targeted expertise that complements your strengths.
In addition, it's important to develop universally valued skills such as problem-solving, communication, and analytical thinking. Practicing case studies and participating in mock interviews can be particularly effective in preparing for the consulting interview process.
Finally, networking plays a crucial role. Attend as many career fairs and recruiting events as possible, and engage with professionals from various consulting firms to learn about the services they offer and the qualities they seek in candidates. Reaching out to current consultants can also provide valuable insights into their roles and the skills that helped them succeed.
Best of luck!
Michele Harrison, CTM
Learning and Development
2
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Michele’s Answer
Hi Theo! Great question!
I agree with everyone that building your professional network is extremely important. I broke into consulting by joining specific consulting networking groups and exploring the different big name consulting firms - eventually taking a job with Deloitte. That entry-level position gave me the opportunity to learn about consulting on the ground floor.
I agree with everyone that building your professional network is extremely important. I broke into consulting by joining specific consulting networking groups and exploring the different big name consulting firms - eventually taking a job with Deloitte. That entry-level position gave me the opportunity to learn about consulting on the ground floor.
Bruno Guerra
Financial Crimes Unit Senior Associate
3
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Bruno’s Answer
Be intentional about building your network. When I was applying to consulting, I saw some students talking to dozens of people, but often forming only surface-level relationships. There’s value in knowing a wide range of people, but it’s just as important (if not more so) to have one or two individuals who truly know you and are willing to advocate for you. That kind of support can make a meaningful difference in your journey.
Also, make a habit of staying informed. Following the news and being able to speak thoughtfully about a range of topics helps you stand out and shows genuine curiosity.
Also, make a habit of staying informed. Following the news and being able to speak thoughtfully about a range of topics helps you stand out and shows genuine curiosity.
Amanda Julian
12
Answers
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
One of the best things you can do to break into consulting is to **network strategically**. Building connections with professionals in the consulting industry can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable insights. Here are some steps to help you get started:
1. **Attend Industry Events**: Participate in conferences, seminars, and workshops related to consulting. These events are great places to meet industry professionals and learn about the latest trends.
2. **Join Professional Associations**: Become a member of organizations like the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC) or other relevant associations. These groups often offer networking events, resources, and mentorship opportunities.
3. **Leverage LinkedIn**: Use LinkedIn to connect with consultants and industry leaders. Engage with their posts, join relevant groups, and reach out for informational interviews.
4. **Seek Internships and Entry-Level Positions**: Internships and entry-level roles at consulting firms can provide hands-on experience and help you build a professional network within the industry.
5. **Develop Relevant Skills**: Focus on building skills that are highly valued in consulting, such as problem-solving, data analysis, project management, and communication.
6. **Get Certified**: Consider obtaining certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or Lean Six Sigma, which are often valued in consulting roles.
7. **Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter**: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements. Make sure to showcase your ability to analyze problems and provide solutions.
8. **Seek Mentorship**: Find a mentor who is experienced in consulting. They can provide guidance, support, and valuable advice on how to navigate the industry.
Networking strategically can significantly enhance your chances of breaking into consulting.
1. **Attend Industry Events**: Participate in conferences, seminars, and workshops related to consulting. These events are great places to meet industry professionals and learn about the latest trends.
2. **Join Professional Associations**: Become a member of organizations like the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC) or other relevant associations. These groups often offer networking events, resources, and mentorship opportunities.
3. **Leverage LinkedIn**: Use LinkedIn to connect with consultants and industry leaders. Engage with their posts, join relevant groups, and reach out for informational interviews.
4. **Seek Internships and Entry-Level Positions**: Internships and entry-level roles at consulting firms can provide hands-on experience and help you build a professional network within the industry.
5. **Develop Relevant Skills**: Focus on building skills that are highly valued in consulting, such as problem-solving, data analysis, project management, and communication.
6. **Get Certified**: Consider obtaining certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or Lean Six Sigma, which are often valued in consulting roles.
7. **Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter**: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements. Make sure to showcase your ability to analyze problems and provide solutions.
8. **Seek Mentorship**: Find a mentor who is experienced in consulting. They can provide guidance, support, and valuable advice on how to navigate the industry.
Networking strategically can significantly enhance your chances of breaking into consulting.
Dawn Prigmore
Accounting Software Support
4
Answers
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Updated
Dawn’s Answer
So many great recommendations! Additionally, don't hesitate to take a proactive approach—reach out directly and make connections on a personal level. Identify businesses within your field and request a tour to gain firsthand insight. Invite industry professionals to lunch to learn from their experiences and expand your practical knowledge. By doing so, you'll not only enhance your expertise but also strengthen your professional network."
Cory Elliott
Technology Consultant
5
Answers
Bakersfield, California
Updated
Cory’s Answer
Hi Theo,
The best way to break into consulting right out of school is by interning with a consulting firm. Like you, I was in a similar position trying to figure out how to get started in consulting when I first began, and luckily I found a great opportunity on LinkedIn with my current firm.
I’d recommend keeping an eye on LinkedIn for upcoming opportunities. An internship will not only get your foot in the door but also give you a chance to see if consulting is something you really enjoy.
The best way to break into consulting right out of school is by interning with a consulting firm. Like you, I was in a similar position trying to figure out how to get started in consulting when I first began, and luckily I found a great opportunity on LinkedIn with my current firm.
I’d recommend keeping an eye on LinkedIn for upcoming opportunities. An internship will not only get your foot in the door but also give you a chance to see if consulting is something you really enjoy.