25 answers
Adam
Student
San Mateo, California
3
Questions
Asked
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What are the different types of consulting I can get into as a first job?
Recently graduated and am looking for entry level positions that will lead into consulting positions
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25 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1695
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Adam because most consulting work is contractual, a full-time consultant has significant control over the type of work they take on. By tailoring the companies you bid with or offer your services to, you can choose the projects you're interested in completing. This could help you follow your ideal career path.
Consulting work is appealing to professionals who prefer variety in their daily tasks. Some consultants work with companies in different industries, providing a great deal of variety from one contract to the next. Even if you prefer to work as a consultant within a single industry that you specialize in, the needs and abilities of one client are likely to differ from the next, meaning the daily tasks required to improve their performances can be very different. Working in consulting is also an excellent way to build your professional network. Because a consultant often transitions between multiple clients in the time an employee would remain with their one employer, the consultant meets and forms personal and professional connections with more people. Having a broad network can benefit you in many ways, both when working within your consulting position or when considering seeking an employee position or starting your own company.
BENEFITS
One word of caution Adam consultant usually work independently, as opposed to working for a consulting firm, it may mean you will not receive benefits such as healthcare and retirement funds. If you're concerned about your benefits package as a consultant, there are three options. The simplest solution is to work for a consulting firm that offers benefits. As an independent consultant, you may negotiate retirement benefits, such as company stocks, when creating a consulting contract, or you can independently invest in your own retirement fund to provide financial security for the future.
Although consulting can be an excellent career choice, it's important to understand the potential downsides of a career in consulting also Adam.
Consulting work is appealing to professionals who prefer variety in their daily tasks. Some consultants work with companies in different industries, providing a great deal of variety from one contract to the next. Even if you prefer to work as a consultant within a single industry that you specialize in, the needs and abilities of one client are likely to differ from the next, meaning the daily tasks required to improve their performances can be very different. Working in consulting is also an excellent way to build your professional network. Because a consultant often transitions between multiple clients in the time an employee would remain with their one employer, the consultant meets and forms personal and professional connections with more people. Having a broad network can benefit you in many ways, both when working within your consulting position or when considering seeking an employee position or starting your own company.
BENEFITS
One word of caution Adam consultant usually work independently, as opposed to working for a consulting firm, it may mean you will not receive benefits such as healthcare and retirement funds. If you're concerned about your benefits package as a consultant, there are three options. The simplest solution is to work for a consulting firm that offers benefits. As an independent consultant, you may negotiate retirement benefits, such as company stocks, when creating a consulting contract, or you can independently invest in your own retirement fund to provide financial security for the future.
Although consulting can be an excellent career choice, it's important to understand the potential downsides of a career in consulting also Adam.
Thank You Michelle. Unless someone like us cares, nothing is going to get better.
Doc Frick
Trevor Dawson
Consulting
99
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Trevor’s Answer
Believe it or not, most facets of consulting you can get involved in as a first job! Look at companies like PwC, KPMG, E&Y, and Deloitte's career pages to explore the opportunities!
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
753
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
One thing I would recommend is to increase your professional credentials.
Many consultants, that I know not only have experience in the field that they are consulting in, but many have upper level degrees (Master's or Ph.D), and professional certifications to go along with those degrees.
For example, I know civil engineers, who work in consulting, that not only have experience and education in the field, but also have the PE designation (Professional Engineer), where they had to have expert knowledge, of various engineering concepts, but also pass a professional certification exam, to demonstrate their knowledge.
So, I would recommend following a similar path, if you wish to eventually consult.
Many consultants, that I know not only have experience in the field that they are consulting in, but many have upper level degrees (Master's or Ph.D), and professional certifications to go along with those degrees.
For example, I know civil engineers, who work in consulting, that not only have experience and education in the field, but also have the PE designation (Professional Engineer), where they had to have expert knowledge, of various engineering concepts, but also pass a professional certification exam, to demonstrate their knowledge.
So, I would recommend following a similar path, if you wish to eventually consult.
Sonia Remache
Consulting Associate
3
Answers
Fair Lawn, New Jersey
Updated
Sonia’s Answer
Hello Adam! It's wonderful that you're interested in consulting. At present, I'm engaged in risk consulting at my firm, an area I knew little about before I began. Given this, I would strongly suggest you explore potential internship opportunities at large firms that encompass a wide range of industries, such as IT, Real Estate, and Hospitality, among others.
Once you secure an internship, it's crucial to concentrate on making a significant impact and maintaining productivity by asking questions whenever you're uncertain. At this stage in your career, it's vital to soak up as much knowledge as possible, especially while you're still young. Additionally, try to foster relationships with your team members and, if possible, with clients. This networking will undoubtedly aid in your career advancement, regardless of the path you choose. I hope you find this advice useful!
Once you secure an internship, it's crucial to concentrate on making a significant impact and maintaining productivity by asking questions whenever you're uncertain. At this stage in your career, it's vital to soak up as much knowledge as possible, especially while you're still young. Additionally, try to foster relationships with your team members and, if possible, with clients. This networking will undoubtedly aid in your career advancement, regardless of the path you choose. I hope you find this advice useful!
Dan Duffy
Senior Strategy Manager
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Dan’s Answer
Consulting is a difficult field with high barriers to entry unless you have an advanced degree or graduate from a top-15 undergraduate/graduate school program.
Typically consultants are expected to have experience in the field in which they are consulting, or a graduate-degree level of education prior to seeking employment at a top firm.
What is known as the Big Four include: Ernest & Young (EY), PeC, Deloitte, & KPMG. Bain, Boston Consulting, & McKinsey are also large, well-known consulting firms.
The easiest way to get a job in consulting after graduation is to graduate with a degree in Finance, Mathematics, Accounting, or like-field. Alternatively, there are specialized consulting roles for different industry verticals, such as: health care & life sciences where more science-oriented degrees may create opportunities for yourself.
Typically consultants are expected to have experience in the field in which they are consulting, or a graduate-degree level of education prior to seeking employment at a top firm.
What is known as the Big Four include: Ernest & Young (EY), PeC, Deloitte, & KPMG. Bain, Boston Consulting, & McKinsey are also large, well-known consulting firms.
The easiest way to get a job in consulting after graduation is to graduate with a degree in Finance, Mathematics, Accounting, or like-field. Alternatively, there are specialized consulting roles for different industry verticals, such as: health care & life sciences where more science-oriented degrees may create opportunities for yourself.
Christine Foglio
Corporate Recruiter
4
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Christine’s Answer
Adam,
Embarking on a journey to become a consultant usually means amassing a wealth of expertise and experience in a particular field before shifting into a guidance role. There's a myriad of roles that can act as valuable steppingstones on your path to a consulting career.
Consider the business sectors that ignite your passion, such as IT, legal, finance, human resources, etc., that you may be interested in. You could then seek out entry-level positions in these fields to cultivate your experience.
Alongside gaining experience, securing pertinent certifications, forging a robust professional network, and continually honing your skills are pivotal steps on your road to becoming a triumphant consultant. Remember, the world of consulting highly prizes a blend of industry knowledge, problem-solving prowess, and proficient communication skills.
Wishing you every success,
Chris
Embarking on a journey to become a consultant usually means amassing a wealth of expertise and experience in a particular field before shifting into a guidance role. There's a myriad of roles that can act as valuable steppingstones on your path to a consulting career.
Consider the business sectors that ignite your passion, such as IT, legal, finance, human resources, etc., that you may be interested in. You could then seek out entry-level positions in these fields to cultivate your experience.
Alongside gaining experience, securing pertinent certifications, forging a robust professional network, and continually honing your skills are pivotal steps on your road to becoming a triumphant consultant. Remember, the world of consulting highly prizes a blend of industry knowledge, problem-solving prowess, and proficient communication skills.
Wishing you every success,
Chris
Thank you, Christine!
Adam
Harrison Liu
Consulting
6
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Harrison’s Answer
Hello Adam! You've asked an excellent question. Indeed, the consulting field is vast and diverse, with numerous specialized roles. Let me share a few examples with you:
1. Management Consulting: This role is all about offering strategic guidance and solutions to organizations, helping them enhance their performance and efficiency. It often encompasses strategy formulation, organizational structuring, process enhancement, and change management.
2. IT Consulting: This role is centered around advising organizations on how to optimally use technology to meet their business goals. It can cover areas like IT strategy, system implementation, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.
3. Financial Consulting: This role involves delivering financial advice and solutions to clients. It can cover a range of areas including financial planning, investment management, risk evaluation, and mergers and acquisitions.
4. Human Resources Consulting: This role is dedicated to assisting organizations with their human resources tasks. This can include talent recruitment, performance management, employee engagement, and organizational development.
What's fascinating is that these different specialties often collaborate amongst each other in order to offer the client a comprehensive range of services best suited for their needs. One of the best things about consulting is the vast exposure and experience you gain, often faster than in industry roles. This might help you discover your own area of interest!
1. Management Consulting: This role is all about offering strategic guidance and solutions to organizations, helping them enhance their performance and efficiency. It often encompasses strategy formulation, organizational structuring, process enhancement, and change management.
2. IT Consulting: This role is centered around advising organizations on how to optimally use technology to meet their business goals. It can cover areas like IT strategy, system implementation, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.
3. Financial Consulting: This role involves delivering financial advice and solutions to clients. It can cover a range of areas including financial planning, investment management, risk evaluation, and mergers and acquisitions.
4. Human Resources Consulting: This role is dedicated to assisting organizations with their human resources tasks. This can include talent recruitment, performance management, employee engagement, and organizational development.
What's fascinating is that these different specialties often collaborate amongst each other in order to offer the client a comprehensive range of services best suited for their needs. One of the best things about consulting is the vast exposure and experience you gain, often faster than in industry roles. This might help you discover your own area of interest!
Rylee Schwee
Tax consulting
9
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Rylee’s Answer
There's a whole world of consulting roles out there, each one unique and exciting in its own way. Just think about the big 4 companies - they've got a whole range of areas you can specialize in. Maybe you're passionate about tax, or perhaps energy, cloud and digital are more your style. The choice is yours!
A great way to figure out what you're really interested in is to try a broad internship or do an internal evaluation of what area really sparks your interest. Then, you can start targeting positions in that field.
Don't worry if you feel like you're not qualified for many roles. Believe me, you've picked up more skills than you realize during your time at University. And remember, employers don't expect you to know everything right off the bat. They know you're just starting out and they're ready to help you learn and grow. So, go ahead and take that leap. You've got this!
A great way to figure out what you're really interested in is to try a broad internship or do an internal evaluation of what area really sparks your interest. Then, you can start targeting positions in that field.
Don't worry if you feel like you're not qualified for many roles. Believe me, you've picked up more skills than you realize during your time at University. And remember, employers don't expect you to know everything right off the bat. They know you're just starting out and they're ready to help you learn and grow. So, go ahead and take that leap. You've got this!
Nathaniel Bivens
Technology Consulting
3
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Nathaniel’s Answer
Consulting is a very broad landscape, it's important to explore through research, networking, news, LinkedIn and other avenues to understanding where you want to be within this field. In the networking conversations try to get a deep understanding of the good, the challenges and the expectations. Also, assess your skillset - technical and soft skills and seek ways to invest in yourself to further develop. Once you've done these things assess your network and the opportunities in your area and look for opportunities to engage with those activitely in the field for opportunities. Lastly, be persistent. It is a highly competitive space but with maintain relationships and be intentional with your conversations.
Explore on Access Your Potential’s site potential career opportunities like internships and paid consulting externships for nonprofits. To learn more: http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
Explore on Access Your Potential’s site potential career opportunities like internships and paid consulting externships for nonprofits. To learn more: http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
Kate Ricketti
Consultant
7
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Kate’s Answer
Consulting opportunities are abundant right from your first year! Engaging in a summer internship within a specific consulting type can be a great way to discover if it's the right fit for you. Plus, interning at a large firm opens up a world of shadowing opportunities across various groups, provided you make the right connections! Many people are eager to introduce you to the myriad of possibilities and help you find your perfect fit. If you're keen on gaining a broad understanding of the types of consulting you can pursue post-college, starting with job websites and career fairs can be a great way to identify the ones that best align with your skills and/or major. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
Access Your Potential is an ecosystem of learning, support and connections for Black and Latino/Hispanic college students, across all fields of study, as they explore their future careers. You will have access to mentorship with PwC professionals, paid consulting externships and free curriculums to help you grow and discover what you want for your career. For more information: http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
Kate recommends the following next steps:
Stephanie Taylor
Consulting
6
Answers
Columbia, South Carolina
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Hi! There are a lot of areas of consulting that you can get into and many offer entry level roles. There are numerous companies and firms that have consulting positions as well and consulting is a great way to learn various skills and work with various types of businesses. I work in risk consulting at a large consulting firm, but there are also large units for management consulting and technical consulting that all have different opportunities and serve a variety of clients. I would recommend figuring out what your interest areas are and determine which type of consulting you would like to try based on that. If you do start working in a consulting position, just be flexible and ready to learn. It's great job experience and a way to get a lot of variety in your work. I hope this helps!
Maneet Bedi
Senior Consultant- Cyber & Strategic Risk Advisory
6
Answers
Chandigarh, India
Updated
Maneet’s Answer
As a fresh graduate eager to break into the consulting world, you have a multitude of beginner-level paths to explore. You could delve into management consulting, where you'll have the chance to guide organizations on strategic projects and problem resolution. Alternatively, financial consulting could be your calling, where you'll aid clients with financial planning and scrutiny.
If you're technologically inclined, technology consulting might be a good fit, focusing on the implementation and optimization of tech solutions. Human resources consulting, on the other hand, allows you to counsel organizations on employee relations and talent management.
Healthcare consulting is another viable option, offering the chance to enhance operations and patient care within the healthcare sector. Strategy consulting could be your forte if you're interested in assisting companies with long-term planning and strategic decision-making. Lastly, environmental consulting could be your choice if you're passionate about environmental regulations and sustainability initiatives.
As you navigate these entry-level roles, look for positions that expose you to consulting projects, client engagement, and opportunities for skills enhancement and career progression within the consulting arena.
For a more personalized guide, I suggest connecting with professionals on LinkedIn. Not only can they steer you towards the right career path, but they may also recommend you for any forthcoming vacancies within their consulting firms. Best of luck! Maneet Bedi
If you're technologically inclined, technology consulting might be a good fit, focusing on the implementation and optimization of tech solutions. Human resources consulting, on the other hand, allows you to counsel organizations on employee relations and talent management.
Healthcare consulting is another viable option, offering the chance to enhance operations and patient care within the healthcare sector. Strategy consulting could be your forte if you're interested in assisting companies with long-term planning and strategic decision-making. Lastly, environmental consulting could be your choice if you're passionate about environmental regulations and sustainability initiatives.
As you navigate these entry-level roles, look for positions that expose you to consulting projects, client engagement, and opportunities for skills enhancement and career progression within the consulting arena.
For a more personalized guide, I suggest connecting with professionals on LinkedIn. Not only can they steer you towards the right career path, but they may also recommend you for any forthcoming vacancies within their consulting firms. Best of luck! Maneet Bedi
Julian Del Castillo
Management Consultant
13
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Julian’s Answer
Hi Adam, completely agree with everyone's responses. If I were you, I would research the consulting industry and familiarize yourself with the different types of consulting firms, their areas of expertise, and the skills they value. I would reach out to professionals in the consulting industry through networking events, career fairs, or online platforms like LinkedIn. Most professionals are willing to offer advice, especially if you leverage common interests and skills. I would apply to internships that align with your interests and goals. Practice common consulting interview questions and be ready to showcase your problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and teamwork experience. Research the firm you're interviewing with to demonstrate your interest and knowledge.
Stay focused, work hard, and continue to develop your skills and knowledge to increase your chances of securing a full-time position in the consulting field. But also consider and know why you want to be a consultant. It can be very demanding and fast-paced but you will always be learning new skills and solving unique problems!
Best,
Julian
Stay focused, work hard, and continue to develop your skills and knowledge to increase your chances of securing a full-time position in the consulting field. But also consider and know why you want to be a consultant. It can be very demanding and fast-paced but you will always be learning new skills and solving unique problems!
Best,
Julian
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
Hello Adam,
Congratulations on your recent graduation! As you explore entry-level positions leading to consulting roles, consider the diverse avenues available in the consulting field. You could delve into management consulting, where you'd work with organizations to improve performance and efficiency. Another option is technology consulting, focusing on advising clients on technology solutions and implementations. If you have a financial background, financial consulting may be an excellent fit, involving advising clients on financial strategies and investments. Human resources consulting is an option if you're interested in workforce management and organizational development. Explore the various facets of consulting, aligning them with your skills and interests, to find a fulfilling and promising first job in this dynamic field.
Best regards,
Houcine
Congratulations on your recent graduation! As you explore entry-level positions leading to consulting roles, consider the diverse avenues available in the consulting field. You could delve into management consulting, where you'd work with organizations to improve performance and efficiency. Another option is technology consulting, focusing on advising clients on technology solutions and implementations. If you have a financial background, financial consulting may be an excellent fit, involving advising clients on financial strategies and investments. Human resources consulting is an option if you're interested in workforce management and organizational development. Explore the various facets of consulting, aligning them with your skills and interests, to find a fulfilling and promising first job in this dynamic field.
Best regards,
Houcine
Katherine Shaw
Consulting
6
Answers
West Sacramento, California
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hi Adam!
Guess what? I hopped on board with my consulting role at Deloitte right after college, without a single day of corporate experience under my belt. Deloitte is known for welcoming large groups of fresh college graduates every year! And it's not just them - many other consulting firms follow the same practice. So, don't forget to stay alert for any info sessions on job hunting platforms. They're a great way to link up with recruiters. All the best! :)
Guess what? I hopped on board with my consulting role at Deloitte right after college, without a single day of corporate experience under my belt. Deloitte is known for welcoming large groups of fresh college graduates every year! And it's not just them - many other consulting firms follow the same practice. So, don't forget to stay alert for any info sessions on job hunting platforms. They're a great way to link up with recruiters. All the best! :)
Matt French
Oracle Cloud SCM
4
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Hi Adam,
Many consulting firms have analyst positions that are an entry level role. This allows employees new to the consulting world to get real hands on experience and in some cases, explore different consulting practices the firm offers.
Many consulting firms have analyst positions that are an entry level role. This allows employees new to the consulting world to get real hands on experience and in some cases, explore different consulting practices the firm offers.
Iliasu Oyenuga
Cybersecurity
2
Answers
Hamden, Connecticut
Updated
Iliasu’s Answer
The variety of beginner-level consulting jobs is virtually endless, and it mostly depends on your personal i