86 answers
Jennifer
Student
Hong Kong
11
Questions
Updated
9959 views
What qualities should I possess if I want to be a consultant?
Interested to be a management consultant in the future. #consulting #management-consulting #strategic-consulting #career
86 answers
Karine LEFRANCQ
Project Management
26
Answers
Montpellier, Occitanie, France
Updated
Karine’s Answer
Patience, expertise, human and management qualities but you know what the best Management Consultant i had the chance to meet had all something is common. They were themself ! Bring yourself to the meeting, classroom and that is how you will make the difference. Again learn that people will not remember all you said but surely remember how they felt in your presence. Hope this helps !
Lynnea Amaya
Executive Assistant
3
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Lynnea’s Answer
I highly suggest you find the specific industry you intend to work within and you learn this industry thoroughly. When you enter the university they teach you concepts that may not make sense until you are able to apply them to real world experiences in the industry you intend to work in. Specializing in an industry and becoming familiar with that industries processes will allow you to gain expertise. Furthermore, after graduation you should continue to learn about advancements in your industry/field and digital disruptions or innovation that will allow you to be ahead of the curve and excel in consulting.
Great answer if it works out for you. If life happens and you end up somewhere else, learn to be the best in the area you land in. A job is what you make it, make it awesome!
Deb Crofoot
Developing digital skills is a great point
Aziz Abu Hakmeh
辉 李
校园项目区域经理 - 戴尔（中国）有限公司
1
Answer
Updated
辉’s Answer
In order to become a professional consultant, I think first of all, I should have the ability to collect, analyze, communicate, coordinate with others, and basic understanding of business.The other important thing is financial management, because you can analyze a lot of problems through the financial report, and the company can know a thing or two about the business development.As well as economics is indispensable, such as do a PEST analysis, porter five analysis of what all need these knowledge, combined with the national policy of the company's strategy, to provide professional advice to the customer.
Lu Ke
Sales Manager at Dell
2
Answers
Updated
Lu’s Answer
First, we must have a deep understanding of the future of the industry, have strong interest in the work itself, and are willing to develop in this industry for a long time, and accordingly make career plans accordingly.
Two, with good personality quality, including: tenacious, persistent will quality; optimistic, open mind; active, positive work style.
Three, strong learning ability and ability to solve problems independently.
Four, good communication skills, fluency in Mandarin and English.
Five. Good professionalism and moral integrity.
Two, with good personality quality, including: tenacious, persistent will quality; optimistic, open mind; active, positive work style.
Three, strong learning ability and ability to solve problems independently.
Four, good communication skills, fluency in Mandarin and English.
Five. Good professionalism and moral integrity.
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1349
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A GREAT CONSULTANT
1.) OPINIONATED – The first and foremost thing a consultant needs to have is an informed opinion. After all, that’s why you’ve been hired – to provide a unique look at the situation that takes into account your knowledge of how this problem has been approached by others, what’s worked or hasn’t worked in similar situations, and what critical things may not have been considered yet.
2.) PRAGMATIC – Models and frameworks are great, but you need to bring things down to a practical level and consider how to actually design and implement solutions for your clients. To do this, it’s important to look at things from all angles and play out the possible solutions from the top down and the bottom up.
3.) PASSIONATE – A Great Consultant gets invested in the client’s issues and gets excited at the prospect of making a difference. Finding passion in your work is something you can’t force, and you may need to turn things around – find out first what you’re passionate about and then make that your professional focus.
4.) RESILIENCE – Some problems are easily solved, and others take some time. The right solution may come after long days, much rework, and much iteration. If you get some tough feedback or experience a setback along the way, you’ve got to be resilient and bounce back. Don’t let them get you down!
5.) BUSINESS–MINDED – If you don’t know the basics of the balance sheet or P&L statement, it will be next to impossible for you to connect the dots on how your work will impact the client’s bottom line. Even a simple appreciation for key business drivers, risks, and the financial aspects of your client’s business will suggest that you “get it” and that you bring a seasoned business perspective to the work.
6.) PROFESSIONAL – Consultants should hold themselves to the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality, and integrity. By virtue of your role, you will likely see and hear a lot, and it’s imperative for your clients to trust you. Also, just because something is within the letter of the law doesn’t make it right… Hold yourself to standards beyond what’s expected.
7.) INQUISITIVE – Ask questions, listen, and be professionally skeptical. As a consultant, your value comes in asking the tough questions, culling out the inconsistencies, and driving to the root causes. Realize that being inquisitive may sometimes be annoying but it gets results.
8.) RESOURCEFUL – Know when to enlist help, none of us is an expert in everything. Actively maintain a network of talented people in your area of expertise and in other, related areas where you might need help. Not only will the client benefit from the combination of strong minds at work on their project, but reciprocal opportunities may come to you.
9.) INFLUENTIAL – Your ability to influence may be as important as your expertise (if not more so). If you can’t get your client or other stakeholders to buy into the plan, idea, or strategy, then the forward movement stops there. Great Consultants know how to be savvy and navigate situations with dexterity.
10.) TACTICAL – Seeing the big picture and connecting dots may be some of the most important value you bring to your clients. They are in the thick of things and being pulled in various directions. You are in the unique position of being able to step back and look at the whole system or situation.
Hope this was Helpful Jennifer
1.) OPINIONATED – The first and foremost thing a consultant needs to have is an informed opinion. After all, that’s why you’ve been hired – to provide a unique look at the situation that takes into account your knowledge of how this problem has been approached by others, what’s worked or hasn’t worked in similar situations, and what critical things may not have been considered yet.
2.) PRAGMATIC – Models and frameworks are great, but you need to bring things down to a practical level and consider how to actually design and implement solutions for your clients. To do this, it’s important to look at things from all angles and play out the possible solutions from the top down and the bottom up.
3.) PASSIONATE – A Great Consultant gets invested in the client’s issues and gets excited at the prospect of making a difference. Finding passion in your work is something you can’t force, and you may need to turn things around – find out first what you’re passionate about and then make that your professional focus.
4.) RESILIENCE – Some problems are easily solved, and others take some time. The right solution may come after long days, much rework, and much iteration. If you get some tough feedback or experience a setback along the way, you’ve got to be resilient and bounce back. Don’t let them get you down!
5.) BUSINESS–MINDED – If you don’t know the basics of the balance sheet or P&L statement, it will be next to impossible for you to connect the dots on how your work will impact the client’s bottom line. Even a simple appreciation for key business drivers, risks, and the financial aspects of your client’s business will suggest that you “get it” and that you bring a seasoned business perspective to the work.
6.) PROFESSIONAL – Consultants should hold themselves to the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality, and integrity. By virtue of your role, you will likely see and hear a lot, and it’s imperative for your clients to trust you. Also, just because something is within the letter of the law doesn’t make it right… Hold yourself to standards beyond what’s expected.
7.) INQUISITIVE – Ask questions, listen, and be professionally skeptical. As a consultant, your value comes in asking the tough questions, culling out the inconsistencies, and driving to the root causes. Realize that being inquisitive may sometimes be annoying but it gets results.
8.) RESOURCEFUL – Know when to enlist help, none of us is an expert in everything. Actively maintain a network of talented people in your area of expertise and in other, related areas where you might need help. Not only will the client benefit from the combination of strong minds at work on their project, but reciprocal opportunities may come to you.
9.) INFLUENTIAL – Your ability to influence may be as important as your expertise (if not more so). If you can’t get your client or other stakeholders to buy into the plan, idea, or strategy, then the forward movement stops there. Great Consultants know how to be savvy and navigate situations with dexterity.
10.) TACTICAL – Seeing the big picture and connecting dots may be some of the most important value you bring to your clients. They are in the thick of things and being pulled in various directions. You are in the unique position of being able to step back and look at the whole system or situation.
Hope this was Helpful Jennifer
Thank You Corey. “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Doc Frick
zhibin qu
SM at Dell
1
Answer
Updated
zhibin’s Answer
responsibility love and Professional knowledge
Annie Pan
Sales Operations Manager, Channel Management Department, Huawei Device Company
1
Answer
Updated
Annie’s Answer
Broad Knowledge, Persistent, Good listener
玉强 纪
区域销售经理 - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
玉强’s Answer
Patience, expertise, human and management qualitie
涛 刘
Dell Sales Manager
1
Answer
Updated
涛’s Answer
First I need to master enough data, then analyze and control the risk
燕妮 叶
--
1
Answer
Updated
燕妮’s Answer
Good sense of comprehension and the ability of empathy together with rich experience would do you a great favor.
真 曾
销售 - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
真’s Answer
Not only have a good mental quality, but also have a high cultural accomplishment, and more perseverance and ambition.
清梅 许
叶水福（厦门）有限公司 — 报关员
1
Answer
Updated
清梅’s Answer
To be passionate, stronger professional skills
剑平 单
销售经理 - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
剑平’s Answer
kindhearted, conscientious, and keep learning.
振华 张
--
1
Answer
Updated
振华’s Answer
1,Very professional skills, clear business ideas
2,Customer belief to meet customer needs
3,Ability to observe and be good at finding problems
4,After post analysis, perfect after-sale guarantee
2,Customer belief to meet customer needs
3,Ability to observe and be good at finding problems
4,After post analysis, perfect after-sale guarantee
Chirayu Rupani
Data Analyst
295
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Chirayu’s Answer
If you're interested in becoming a management consultant, here are some key qualities you should possess:
-Consultants are often called upon to analyze complex business problems and develop solutions. A strong analytical mindset is crucial to being able to understand and interpret data, identify patterns, and make informed recommendations.
-Consultants must be able to articulate complex ideas and recommendations to clients in a clear and concise manner, both in written reports and presentations.
-Consultants must be able to quickly identify problems and develop innovative and practical solutions to help clients improve their businesses.
-Consultants work with a wide range of stakeholders, from clients and team members to subject-matter experts, so strong interpersonal skills are essential to building strong relationships and effectively communicating with all parties involved.
-The business world is constantly changing, and consultants must be able to adapt to new challenges and new ways of working. They must also be able to work in different industries and with different types of clients.
-Consultants must be able to see the big picture and understand how their recommendations fit into the overall strategy of their clients' organizations.
-Consultants often work on multiple projects at the same time, so they must be self-motivated and able to manage their time effectively.
-Some areas of consulting require a strong understanding of specific technical skills, such as financial modeling, data analysis, or project management.
-Consultants are often called upon to analyze complex business problems and develop solutions. A strong analytical mindset is crucial to being able to understand and interpret data, identify patterns, and make informed recommendations.
-Consultants must be able to articulate complex ideas and recommendations to clients in a clear and concise manner, both in written reports and presentations.
-Consultants must be able to quickly identify problems and develop innovative and practical solutions to help clients improve their businesses.
-Consultants work with a wide range of stakeholders, from clients and team members to subject-matter experts, so strong interpersonal skills are essential to building strong relationships and effectively communicating with all parties involved.
-The business world is constantly changing, and consultants must be able to adapt to new challenges and new ways of working. They must also be able to work in different industries and with different types of clients.
-Consultants must be able to see the big picture and understand how their recommendations fit into the overall strategy of their clients' organizations.
-Consultants often work on multiple projects at the same time, so they must be self-motivated and able to manage their time effectively.
-Some areas of consulting require a strong understanding of specific technical skills, such as financial modeling, data analysis, or project management.
翔 陈
--
1
Answer
Updated
翔’s Answer
Observation power
Analytical force
Executive power
Learning ability
Good communication skills
A strong desire for work
A calm and calm mind
Self-confidence
And so on.
Analytical force
Executive power
Learning ability
Good communication skills
A strong desire for work
A calm and calm mind
Self-confidence
And so on.
亮 陈
戴尔 - 渠道经理
1
Answer
Updated
亮’s Answer
First, you are going to attend a systematic, long-range, formal psychology training course. Second, you have to learn a more comprehensive theory (from general psychology to neuroscience; from psychotherapy theory to psychiatry). Third, you have to accept a personal experience (to be a visitor to explore yourself). Fourthly, you should begin to work with visitors while supervising and companionship (avoid streaking). After that, you have to keep learning, self-exploration, and open-mindedness.
元璋 史
销售经理 - 戴尔（中国）有限公司
1
Answer
Updated
元璋’s Answer
time managing，Strong communication skills，Strict logical thinking;
萍 张
--
1
Answer
Updated
萍’s Answer
No pain no gain.
Nothing is difficult to the man who will try.
Nothing is difficult to the man who will try.
Jasanpreet Kaur Bhatia
|| Startup Enthusiastic || Advisor || Knowledge Sharer || Writer
133
Answers
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Updated
Jasanpreet Kaur’s Answer
The qualities that you should possess if you want to be a consultant are:
- Patience: “Utmost Crucial”
- Good listener: “Important”
- Decision making: “Important”
- Flexible: For the ease of work at both the end.
- Time Management: Most crucial not only for delivery of your task but also respecting time of others.
- Knowledge: Keep updating that all the time.
- Analysts: Good for getting best out of your task.
- Good Communication
- Good at task management
- Negotiations
- Problem Solving
Good luck!
晨雨 徐
城市经理 - 戴尔
3
Answers
Updated
晨雨’s Answer
I think to be a good consultant, required data collection, analysis ability, can communication, coordination with people
Amelie Tie
Designer at Dell
2
Answers
Updated
Amelie’s Answer
A consultant needs creativity, curiosity, optimistic , and Empathy.
Yao yeyi
Sales Manager at Dell
1
Answer
Updated
Yao’s Answer
Executive power ,Learning ability ,Good communication, skills A strong desire for work and so on.
浩然 史
guan'pei'sheng - dai'er
1
Answer
Updated
浩然’s Answer
1、Learning ability2、 Good communication skills 3、A strong desire for work
聪 蒋
区域销售经理 - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
聪’s Answer
1. Be the professor of your job.
2. Good ability to communicate.
3.Alaway be nice and patience to your partner.
2. Good ability to communicate.
3.Alaway be nice and patience to your partner.
铨炜 叶
学生 - 集美大学
1
Answer
Updated
铨炜’s Answer
Keep a clear mind at any time, and have a strong academic and understanding ability to integrate the knowledge ，always keep learning.
Liangliang Wang
Sales Manager at Dell
5
Answers
Updated
Liangliang’s Answer
Love of things what you do, willpower, understanding, and meet more problems
亮 陈
华硕电脑（上海）有限公司 — 渠道产品经理
1
Answer
Updated
亮’s Answer
Professional skills, innovative thinking
骥 陈
--
1
Answer
Updated
骥’s Answer
To be a good listener, clear logic, big picture drawer, time managing, communication skill, project management
Anna Jin
eBusiness Sr. Analyst at Dell Technologies
1
Answer
Updated
Anna’s Answer
communication skills, patience, project management skills
Kevelyn He
Training Development Manager at DELL (China) Company
1
Answer
Updated
Kevelyn’s Answer
Hard working & Smart working
Know the training system well
Know the training system well
亚南 李
零售经理 - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
亚南’s Answer
Necessary management skills, good at discovery, good at learning, and good at summing up. It can form a complete management theory system and be verified by practice. It can stimulate the potential of each member of the team and integrate the team.
永哲 郑
Ebusiness Advisor
1
Answer
Updated
永哲’s Answer
Good listener, clear logic, big picture drawer, time managing, communication skill, project management
hello how re you
Ellyanna
Carole Sams Hoemeke
Customer Success Manager
7
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Carole Sams’s Answer
A management consultant must be intuitive - be able to walk into a situation, see how things are working currently, and evaluate and recommend better ways to do the same thing. It involves understanding relationships within the organization, how the personalities all get along, or more often, dont get along.
Management Consulting also builds off a strong background in the field - You must understand what the department or company is responsible for. They are bringing you in as the expert so it is important that you are prepared to deliver.
Amelie Tie
Designer at Dell
2
Answers
Updated
Amelie’s Answer
A consultant needs creativity, curiosity, optimistic , and Empathy.
Maureen Scorpio
Campus Recruiter
3
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Maureen’s Answer
Aside from the obvious qualities that are needed (patience, intelligence, etc.), I think one of the most overlooked qualities are those that aren't as easily trained. This includes things like emotional intelligence, likability, conversational, etc. In my opinion, it is much easier for a firm to sit down and teach someone the technical capabilities of a job, but it is very difficult to teach some of these inherent qualities. If you can bring this to the table, you've already set yourself ahead!
Rose Jao
Management Consultant
7
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Rose’s Answer
Empathy and other soft skills are just as important, if sometimes not more important, than hard skills. Your team and clients are humans, and being able to understand their emotions and meet them where they are will make a world of difference. We could all use a bit more empathy and care these days - this will set you apart!
Kevin Keegan
Consulting
9
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
From my experience, consultants are naturally curious, speak to facts and ask good questions. I started as a consultant right from college so I did not have expertise on any industry. I developed this as I went. I think that companies hiring at entry level consulting positions are looking for people who can talk about their capabilities in these three areas. They know they will need to provide their new hires training in industry, tools to help with research and analysis and the like.
Sakina Ibrahimova
Senior International Tax Manager
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Sakina’s Answer
Interpersonal skills are very important. Note that lots of people come here, and learn a lot during on-job training. Especially, in the tax sphere, it is important to create good working relationships, try to be proactive, accurate, and detail-oriented while seeing a big picture when you work on tasks/assignments, and communicate well. Big 4 accounting firms usually do social events as a part of recruitment to test interpersonal, teamwork, and communications skills.
Ryan Lucky
Consultant
1
Answer
Hamilton, Massachusetts
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Focus on your problem solving skills - do your best to bring a suggestion to each and every problem or barrier you or your clients face.
Be proactive and don't hesitate to share your ideas, but also be flexible. Remember, there may be a better idea out there so don't worry if your suggestion isn't the final answer - the shared goal of a high performing consulting team is to bring the best answer to the client.
Be proactive and don't hesitate to share your ideas, but also be flexible. Remember, there may be a better idea out there so don't worry if your suggestion isn't the final answer - the shared goal of a high performing consulting team is to bring the best answer to the client.
Junnie Lai, MBA
Consultant Chef
61
Answers
Updated
Junnie’s Answer
Outstanding experience and good networking. You will need to build a good profile, specialise in something that you can do best than everyone else. Then, you will need to build a good network to market yourself!
梅炜 陈
销售代表 - 戴尔（中国）有限公司
1
Answer
Updated
梅炜’s Answer
True courage comes from inner perseverance~
天乐 章
sales - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
天乐’s Answer
Good sales skills and communication skills
Jacqueline Radovich
Consultant
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Jacqueline’s Answer
A desire to learn and solve problems coupled with strong communication skills.
Alexandra Grashkina-Hristov
International Tax Professional
147
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
The single most important quality of a consultant is the ability to communicate clearly. I would recommend starting to develop this skill by presenting your idea to others. Participate in activities such as debate, tutoring younger students, drama, and theater arts. Learn to express what you think.
Jerel L.
Management Consultant
86
Answers
Columbia, South Carolina
Updated
Jerel’s Answer
1. Professionalism
2. TIme Management
3. Good Judgment
4. Critical Thinker
5. Strong Communication Skills
6. Expert Knowledge
7. Active Listening
8. Positive Reputation
2. TIme Management
3. Good Judgment
4. Critical Thinker
5. Strong Communication Skills
6. Expert Knowledge
7. Active Listening
8. Positive Reputation
Trevor Dawson
Consulting
99
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Trevor’s Answer
Ability to work with a wide variety of people.
Sara Kramer
HR Consultant
3
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Sara’s Answer
1. Be client-focused: At the end of the day, Consultants exist to serve the needs of the client. I have found that the most successful Consultants, not only exceed current client expectations, but anticipate their needs.
2. Build team & client rapport: Having a good relationship with both your team (so they have your back), but also build a relationship with your key clients that isn't purely-work oriented. Asking them about their weekend, their kids, goes a long way!
3. Be organized, detail-oriented, and communicative: The three skills I found most valuable to draw upon in my consulting engagements.
2. Build team & client rapport: Having a good relationship with both your team (so they have your back), but also build a relationship with your key clients that isn't purely-work oriented. Asking them about their weekend, their kids, goes a long way!
3. Be organized, detail-oriented, and communicative: The three skills I found most valuable to draw upon in my consulting engagements.
Haley McMullan
Recruiting
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Haley’s Answer
Set goals, identify your area of expertise, and think about what your strengths/ interests are that will keep you self motivated! You will want to have strong communication skills and analytical abilities. Excellent listening skills are important as well.
Tasha Kewalramani
Associate at Strategy&, part of the PwC network
7
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Tasha’s Answer
You should have great social skills, be extremely organized and on top of things, great at communication, and a good team player.
Rishi Patel
Consultant
3
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Rishi’s Answer
Hi Jennifer!
I would say that some of the qualities that make a successful consultant would be attention to detail and general curiosity. When you are working, you want to think beyond data and specific items you are looking at and consider what the greater picture is, and why you are on the engagement, what the client's end goal may be after a project. These will help anchor your mindset going into the work.
I would say that some of the qualities that make a successful consultant would be attention to detail and general curiosity. When you are working, you want to think beyond data and specific items you are looking at and consider what the greater picture is, and why you are on the engagement, what the client's end goal may be after a project. These will help anchor your mindset going into the work.
Pei Phoena
--
1
Answer
Updated
Pei’s Answer
Patience, expertise, human and management qualities but you know what the best Management Consultant i had the chance to meet had all something is common.
Aiden Song
Business Development Manager
3
Answers
Seoul, South Korea
Updated
Aiden’s Answer
Please do nourish the Habit of Logical thinking in every event you face. Persuading internal/external stakeholders with logic would be the most important task of consultants.
Nolan Kirby
Auditor - Risk Assurance
1
Answer
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Nolan’s Answer
As a consultant you need to first be able to connect with clients on a personal level. Take advantage of every opportunity life has to offer and get involved in things you like to do. That could be listening to music, playing (or watching) sports, volunteering, getting an interesting job, or traveling to new and interesting places. Simply put you need to build life experience! All those experiences contribute to making you well-rounded and a stronger "conversationalist." Your ability to relate to your clients on a personal level will accelerate the time it takes to earn respect and trust.
Second - you must have strong professional skills: the ability to speak and present in front of groups; strong written and oral communication skills; and a strong technical knowledge of the area you wish to consult on. Don't worry if you are not perfect at these things now, but do not be afraid to expose yourself to experiences that will strengthen these skills. You will get better with practice and experience.
Lastly, pick a consulting specialty in a topic that you are interested in. That will make it much easier to dive in and become an expert before advising others!
Hope this helps!
Second - you must have strong professional skills: the ability to speak and present in front of groups; strong written and oral communication skills; and a strong technical knowledge of the area you wish to consult on. Don't worry if you are not perfect at these things now, but do not be afraid to expose yourself to experiences that will strengthen these skills. You will get better with practice and experience.
Lastly, pick a consulting specialty in a topic that you are interested in. That will make it much easier to dive in and become an expert before advising others!
Hope this helps!
Edward Chihanick
Systems Consultant
2
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Edward’s Answer
Personally my answer would be to learn to be great at data analysis and love presenting. Consulting of most kinds requires a hard look at existing processes, finding and solving for existing pain points in the business model, then presenting solutions you find into meaningful and most importantly, revenue driving impacts to their business. Listening to your client will be extremely important like other said.
Where to start?
Be creative with numbers. Companies deal mostly in the measurement of metrics. They know if certain numbers =X they will profit Y. So diving into and owning their metric numbers is huge. Excel, SQL, Tableau as well as some advanced math like statistics and data analysis will be a friend in most cases. Taking a few financial, marketing, and presentation classes would also be extremely important. Seriously, don't shy away from those math classes. Familiarity in Statistics and other advanced math courses will give you the confidence behind your numerical findings. Math also has this magical property of enchaining your own mental endurance to tackle complex problems that aren't necessarily math related. You'll learn to think through things objectively and base things on facts. That's key to becoming a great consultant.
With those skills in hand, you can have the confidence of feeling well rounded and ready for most challenges.
I hope you make that dream a reality.
Good luck!
Where to start?
Be creative with numbers. Companies deal mostly in the measurement of metrics. They know if certain numbers =X they will profit Y. So diving into and owning their metric numbers is huge. Excel, SQL, Tableau as well as some advanced math like statistics and data analysis will be a friend in most cases. Taking a few financial, marketing, and presentation classes would also be extremely important. Seriously, don't shy away from those math classes. Familiarity in Statistics and other advanced math courses will give you the confidence behind your numerical findings. Math also has this magical property of enchaining your own mental endurance to tackle complex problems that aren't necessarily math related. You'll learn to think through things objectively and base things on facts. That's key to becoming a great consultant.
With those skills in hand, you can have the confidence of feeling well rounded and ready for most challenges.
I hope you make that dream a reality.
Good luck!
창우 유
Consulting
3
Answers
Seoul, South Korea
Updated
창우’s Answer
Apart from obvious capabilities such as critical thinking, my #1 pick would be inter personal communication skill to manage client's expectation.
Steven Bichimer
Consultant
2
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Steven’s Answer
Among other qualities, I would recommend developing the ability to understand complex ideas and communicate them clearly to someone who is not as familiar with that specific topic as you are. Understanding the perspective of your audience, and the appropriate level of detail for the conversation is critical to being a successful consultant.
Emilio Lazaro
Auditor
30
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Emilio’s Answer
To be a consultant you have to like finding creative solutions to problems and have the ability to present them to your audience in a clear way.
Vic Wong
Management Consulting
77
Answers
Liverpool, New York
Updated
Vic’s Answer
I have conducted interviews and this is typically what I look for:
Professionalism - Assess whether or not you can be left on client site and represent the firm well (deal with ambiguity, impart a positive first impression, is client friendly, mental calmness)
Intellect - Assess whether or not you are logical, can problem solve in an unfamiliar environment, quick to learn, and are analytical
Communication - Assess whether you are able to articulate yourself in a way clients and your team can understand, can work well in a team setting
Airport Test - Assess if you are likeable, interesting and engaging to spend time with in a professional setting and outside
Professionalism - Assess whether or not you can be left on client site and represent the firm well (deal with ambiguity, impart a positive first impression, is client friendly, mental calmness)
Intellect - Assess whether or not you are logical, can problem solve in an unfamiliar environment, quick to learn, and are analytical
Communication - Assess whether you are able to articulate yourself in a way clients and your team can understand, can work well in a team setting
Airport Test - Assess if you are likeable, interesting and engaging to spend time with in a professional setting and outside
Kevin Kong
Sales Director at Landz Real Estate Investment Consultant Limited Company
1
Answer
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
learn more professional acknowledge; get practice; know well about how to express your idea and make your audit get your point.
Steve Hemenway
5
Answers
Updated
Steve’s Answer
If you're planning to be a business management consultant your personal experience and academic training will be helpful. For most of the engagements that I have been involved with it's important to narrow your focus on the type of industry you have the most interest and experience. Most of the time you're spending with clients is giving them the best financial advice for the decisions they are about to make. Sometimes a team approach is best for success. Including someone that is good with financial modeling, a team member that is a great communicator and listener, and someone that is good at finding new clients.
Dina Patel
Partner
5
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Dina’s Answer
Management consulting is probably the best way to start in your career as you are surrounded by some of the best in the industry. The best advice is be a sponge. The more you can soak in what you've learned in school, your peers and elders all adds to your experience. The other attribute is work hard, be confident and create a trusting environment with your clients.
健 赵
商场店运营jing'li - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
健’s Answer
1、communication skills
2、Learning ability
3、confidence
2、Learning ability
3、confidence
Pavan Gulati
IT consultant
1
Answer
Bristol, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Pavan’s Answer
The dictionary meaning of the word consultant is ‘a person who provides expert advice professionally. This seems very simple meaning, but practically the word ‘expert advice’ can vary a lot based on the situation. The advice provided to one individual or organization can have a completely different effect than the same advice provided to another individual or organization.
Apart from expertise in a specific area, I feel that another major quality a good consultant possesses is patient listening. With patient listening, consultant can understand the needs of the client in a better way, ask relevant questions and then can apply his knowledge and experience to provide the best possible advice in that situation.
Apart from expertise in a specific area, I feel that another major quality a good consultant possesses is patient listening. With patient listening, consultant can understand the needs of the client in a better way, ask relevant questions and then can apply his knowledge and experience to provide the best possible advice in that situation.
Lu Ke
Sales Manager at Dell
2
Answers
Updated
Lu’s Answer
First, we must have a deep understanding of the future of the industry, should have strong interest in the work itself, and are willing to develop in this industry for a long time, and accordingly make career plans accordingly.
Two, with good personality quality, including: tenacious, persistent will quality; optimistic, open mind; active, positive work style.
Three, strong learning ability and ability to solve problems independently.
Four, good communication skills, fluency in Mandarin and English.
Five. Good professionalism and moral integrity.
Two, with good personality quality, including: tenacious, persistent will quality; optimistic, open mind; active, positive work style.
Three, strong learning ability and ability to solve problems independently.
Four, good communication skills, fluency in Mandarin and English.
Five. Good professionalism and moral integrity.
政 肖
销售经理 - 戴尔（中国）有限公司深圳分公司
1
Answer
Updated
政’s Answer
Strong communication skills, professional management experience！
婧 徐
城市经理 - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
婧’s Answer
I think a good consultant should have the ability to learn and analysis ability, communication ability, team cooperation ability, the ability of self-management
Aa-东区刘雪杨 Aa-东区刘雪杨
SM at Dell Compellent
1
Answer
Updated
Aa-东区刘雪杨’s Answer
I think conmmunication skills is very important , and patience, expertise and resposibility also necessary .You need to know the situation in your area ,understand customer's needs.
Yuan jijun
区域销售经理 at Dell
1
Answer
Updated
Yuan’s Answer
Professional knowledge and empathy.
Tais Rocha
Consultora de Inventário na Dell
1
Answer
Updated
Tais’s Answer
I think you should be patient, communicative person, with clean opinion, and updated all the time.
Read always news about the area in case.
Jen Marshall
Recruiter
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Jen’s Answer
Hello! Strong communication and analyzation skills are a must. It is important to be an active listener to be able to understand your clients needs. Continue to broaden your professional and business knowledge, staying on top of current events and trends in industry.
Raj Mukerjee, CISA
Finance & IT SOX, Compliance and Information Security
23
Answers
Vinings, Georgia
Updated
Raj’s Answer
The most important point is to know that a consultant is a key player in different facets of life. The most important part is to add value.
伟 王
华硕 - 管理师
1
Answer
Updated
伟’s Answer
Strong professional skills ；Strong communication ability ；Be good at transposition thinking
Vikas Sharma
2
Answers
Updated
Vikas’s Answer
You need to be a good listener with customer oriented mindset, excellent communication skills. Problem solving aptitude is required too.
Robert McSorley
Associate, Pharma & Life Sciences Supply Chain Consulting
1
Answer
Updated
Robert’s Answer
You should be curious and want to solve complex problems that are not clearly visible
龙 郑
Principal Designer - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
龙’s Answer
Strict logical thinking; Clear presentation skills; The ability to use necessary tools.
阔 孙
上海奥维思市场营销服务有限公司 - 销售代表
1
Answer
Updated
阔’s Answer
1，Learning ability2， Good communication skills 3，Hard working & Smart working Know the training system well
Cynthia Assayan
Consultant
5
Answers
Beirut, Beirut Governorate, Lebanon
Updated
Cynthia’s Answer
to make it short and concise:
1) Bold
2) Patient
3) Resourceful
4) Confident
5) Flexible
1) Bold
2) Patient
3) Resourceful
4) Confident
5) Flexible
玉萍 吴
sales - 戴尔
1
Answer
Updated
玉萍’s Answer
1. Know enough about the products you sell
2. Good language organization ability
3, good strain ability
4. Actively and enthusiastically
2. Good language organization ability
3, good strain ability
4. Actively and enthusiastically
Samantha Caine
Consulting
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
In my experience, some of the most helpful qualities for being a strong consultant are being inquisitive, organized, methodical, creative, and driven. I also think it is important to be a good listener and open to feedback.
Roopal Goel
Advisory Associate
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Roopal’s Answer
Skills such as communication, ability to work under pressure, public speaking, networking, critical thinking, time management, and patience are so important as a consultant! Being an emotionally intelligent team player is essential as well. You want to be someone who others can trust and get along with.
Also...you can be the smartest person in the room, but if you can't communicate clearly and make people comfortable, no one will listen. People skills are crucial.
Also...you can be the smartest person in the room, but if you can't communicate clearly and make people comfortable, no one will listen. People skills are crucial.
Sirisha Reddy
Pricing
15
Answers
Suwanee, Georgia
Updated
Sirisha’s Answer
Be inquisitive, don't' be shy, be articulate and thorough in your research and responses
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