33 answers
CareerVillage Office Hours
Student
Palo Alto, California
510
Questions
Asked
3630 views
How to become a Consultant?
Share your journey & guide aspiring Consultants on their path.
Note: We've seen a lot of interest in this career, so we're looking for guidance from our community of professionals.
Login to comment
33 answers
Benjamin Hirai
Consulting
12
Answers
Woodinville, Washington
Updated
Benjamin’s Answer
Hello!
My path into consulting was right out of college. I was able to apply to internships when I was a sophomore in college and was able to land a small week long experience at an accounting firm. I spent this time after my experience refining my resume and participating in a couple mock interviews. I was also involved in a consulting club/organization throughout college that helped me gain experience that I was later able to leverage in job interviews. Fast forward to the first month of my junior year in college, I applied to 60+ internship opportunities while narrowing down more intense focus on around 10-15 internships I really wanted to focus on. From there I received an interview opportunity and was able to do an internship at that company my junior summer. I received a return offer and came back after my senior of college to begin working. Apply early is my biggest piece of advice and any experience you can gain in your sophomore summer opportunities is great!
My path into consulting was right out of college. I was able to apply to internships when I was a sophomore in college and was able to land a small week long experience at an accounting firm. I spent this time after my experience refining my resume and participating in a couple mock interviews. I was also involved in a consulting club/organization throughout college that helped me gain experience that I was later able to leverage in job interviews. Fast forward to the first month of my junior year in college, I applied to 60+ internship opportunities while narrowing down more intense focus on around 10-15 internships I really wanted to focus on. From there I received an interview opportunity and was able to do an internship at that company my junior summer. I received a return offer and came back after my senior of college to begin working. Apply early is my biggest piece of advice and any experience you can gain in your sophomore summer opportunities is great!
Teresa Brzozowski
Workplace Experience
36
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Teresa’s Answer
Hello,
I am happy to share my career path in case it can help someone else become a consultant. I started my career in the tech industry as an employee for a small software that was growing internationally. I enjoyed working for a smaller firm, where I could be exposed to many different parts of the business and learn as much as possible about not only my role in marketing but about the business overall. After a few years in marketing, I switch over to a role in sales and stayed in various sales roles across a few company for over 15 years. When my daughter was born, I decided that I wanted to see if I could switch to consulting, so that I could have more flexibility with my time - to be able to shift around my hours, and also find time to spend with her. I had developed a pretty good network of contacts over the years. So, I updated my resume, and started reaching out to my network - catching up with who was where, what they were doing, how business was going and where they might have gaps or looking for extra help. It took a while, but that's how I landed my first contract. When networking and talking to firms, I also found that starting with a project (where they needed help) was a good approach for me. I positioned it as a great way for us to work together, say for 3 months, to get to know each other and see if there is a good fit. In more than one situation like this, the 3 month contract turned into 3 years of consulting with the same firm. As a consultant, there are times when you are doing "double duty" - where you are finishing a contract for the client, and at the same time, doing business development to find the next gig. Those can be busy times where you are doing 2 jobs at once, but that's the nature of being a consultant. I enjoyed being able to learn about a variety of companies as a consultant, and being able to help and provide help when companies need an extra pair of hands or expertise that I am happy to share!
I am happy to share my career path in case it can help someone else become a consultant. I started my career in the tech industry as an employee for a small software that was growing internationally. I enjoyed working for a smaller firm, where I could be exposed to many different parts of the business and learn as much as possible about not only my role in marketing but about the business overall. After a few years in marketing, I switch over to a role in sales and stayed in various sales roles across a few company for over 15 years. When my daughter was born, I decided that I wanted to see if I could switch to consulting, so that I could have more flexibility with my time - to be able to shift around my hours, and also find time to spend with her. I had developed a pretty good network of contacts over the years. So, I updated my resume, and started reaching out to my network - catching up with who was where, what they were doing, how business was going and where they might have gaps or looking for extra help. It took a while, but that's how I landed my first contract. When networking and talking to firms, I also found that starting with a project (where they needed help) was a good approach for me. I positioned it as a great way for us to work together, say for 3 months, to get to know each other and see if there is a good fit. In more than one situation like this, the 3 month contract turned into 3 years of consulting with the same firm. As a consultant, there are times when you are doing "double duty" - where you are finishing a contract for the client, and at the same time, doing business development to find the next gig. Those can be busy times where you are doing 2 jobs at once, but that's the nature of being a consultant. I enjoyed being able to learn about a variety of companies as a consultant, and being able to help and provide help when companies need an extra pair of hands or expertise that I am happy to share!
Ryan Hopke
Strategy Consulting
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hello! I started my strategy consulting journey a few years after graduating college and I believe there are multiple ways to break into the industry. For me, making connections is key, whether it be with people currently working in consulting firms, fellow alumni, friends, etc. Getting an understanding of what consulting entails and getting a foot in the door is always easier when you have someone to assist or answer questions.
What's great about consulting is that it brings people together with so many skills, and more than anything else your curiosity, willingness to learn, and ability to solve problems is key. So if that's your passion, consulting is definitely the right career path for you!
What's great about consulting is that it brings people together with so many skills, and more than anything else your curiosity, willingness to learn, and ability to solve problems is key. So if that's your passion, consulting is definitely the right career path for you!
Rachel Pierce
Consultant
1
Answer
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Hi, there!
I think I have a semi-unique path to consulting. I studied computer science and engineering. During my second year of college, the pandemic hit, and I was applying to any and all internships. I ended up getting an internship in consulting and gave it a shot! I really liked being able to use my technical skills to be a "bridge" or translator to others, and I ended up deciding to pursue a career in it. I'm really happy I ended up in consulting, and love that every day is something different. I am able to use my technical skills from my degree in unique ways while building and improving my softer skills.
I think I have a semi-unique path to consulting. I studied computer science and engineering. During my second year of college, the pandemic hit, and I was applying to any and all internships. I ended up getting an internship in consulting and gave it a shot! I really liked being able to use my technical skills to be a "bridge" or translator to others, and I ended up deciding to pursue a career in it. I'm really happy I ended up in consulting, and love that every day is something different. I am able to use my technical skills from my degree in unique ways while building and improving my softer skills.
Sharie Richardson, PMP
Management and Advisory Consulting
10
Answers
Baltimore, Maryland
Updated
Sharie’s Answer
One of the most compelling aspects of consulting is its openness to professionals at various stages of their career paths. This inclusivity enriches the field with a wide range of insights and experiences, making it a dynamic and evolving industry.
Personally, my journey into consulting began several years out of college, where I initially worked with a non-profit focused on the regulatory impacts on insurance for specific health services and devices. This role provided me with a deep understanding of some pivotal issues within the healthcare market. It was this initial experience that I leveraged to transition into a role as a Healthcare Consultant at a small firm a few years later.
In consulting, the learning never stops. You continuously encounter different market challenges and innovative solutions that significantly impact businesses and organizations. It's not just about the hard skills or the technical know-how; it's also about understanding market dynamics and developing the ability to anticipate and respond to changes. These insights are what empower you to craft impactful strategies and solutions for your clients.
Moreover, consulting offers the flexibility to enter the field at a later stage in your career. Many choose to step into consulting as subject-matter experts, bringing with them a wealth of experience and unique perspectives that are highly valued in this field. This ability to join at different points in your career path not only adds depth to the consulting profession but also provides a rich tapestry of knowledge and expertise that benefits both consultants and their clients.
Whether you start young or transition later in life, consulting can be a rewarding career that continuously challenges and grows your skill set. It’s a profession where every experience you bring can be transformed into value, making it one of the most versatile and impactful career choices out there.
Personally, my journey into consulting began several years out of college, where I initially worked with a non-profit focused on the regulatory impacts on insurance for specific health services and devices. This role provided me with a deep understanding of some pivotal issues within the healthcare market. It was this initial experience that I leveraged to transition into a role as a Healthcare Consultant at a small firm a few years later.
In consulting, the learning never stops. You continuously encounter different market challenges and innovative solutions that significantly impact businesses and organizations. It's not just about the hard skills or the technical know-how; it's also about understanding market dynamics and developing the ability to anticipate and respond to changes. These insights are what empower you to craft impactful strategies and solutions for your clients.
Moreover, consulting offers the flexibility to enter the field at a later stage in your career. Many choose to step into consulting as subject-matter experts, bringing with them a wealth of experience and unique perspectives that are highly valued in this field. This ability to join at different points in your career path not only adds depth to the consulting profession but also provides a rich tapestry of knowledge and expertise that benefits both consultants and their clients.
Whether you start young or transition later in life, consulting can be a rewarding career that continuously challenges and grows your skill set. It’s a profession where every experience you bring can be transformed into value, making it one of the most versatile and impactful career choices out there.
Carolina Undurraga
Management Consultant
26
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Carolina’s Answer
I believe that everyone's journey to consulting is unique and shaped by their individual experiences. As a child, I was always fascinated by economics and general business studies. This interest guided my choices when I was applying to colleges, leading me to focus on these specific fields.
During my freshman year at college, I attended a panel discussion featuring a diverse group of business professionals. I was intrigued to discover that many of them were consultants. This was my first real exposure to the world of consulting and the broad range of industries and issues it encompasses. From tax consulting, mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, to ESG, the scope of consulting is truly limitless.
What I love most about consulting is its dynamic nature. It offers flexibility not just in terms of work environment - like the ability to work from home or collaborate with my team multiple times a week - but also in the breadth of learning opportunities it provides. It allows me to delve into various specialized topics while honing my general skills.
Even though I've been working full-time in consulting for just about a year, the amount I've learned is astounding. The best part? The learning never ends. Observing Partners at work, I see how they continually collaborate with other professionals to refine their knowledge and customize client deliverables. This constant learning and growth is what makes consulting so rewarding and exciting!
During my freshman year at college, I attended a panel discussion featuring a diverse group of business professionals. I was intrigued to discover that many of them were consultants. This was my first real exposure to the world of consulting and the broad range of industries and issues it encompasses. From tax consulting, mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, to ESG, the scope of consulting is truly limitless.
What I love most about consulting is its dynamic nature. It offers flexibility not just in terms of work environment - like the ability to work from home or collaborate with my team multiple times a week - but also in the breadth of learning opportunities it provides. It allows me to delve into various specialized topics while honing my general skills.
Even though I've been working full-time in consulting for just about a year, the amount I've learned is astounding. The best part? The learning never ends. Observing Partners at work, I see how they continually collaborate with other professionals to refine their knowledge and customize client deliverables. This constant learning and growth is what makes consulting so rewarding and exciting!
Charity Bourgeois
Project Management Consultant
1
Answer
Columbia, South Carolina
Updated
Charity’s Answer
One thing I will say is that everyone's path is a little different. Some of us had a straight path from college into consulting, while others may have moved around in industries until they found their niche in consulting. I never intended on going into consulting. For starters I got a late start on college. I earned an associates when I was 28 years old and then went into pharmacy becoming a Billing Specialist. After many nearly a decade working in pharmacy I finished my bachelor's in business management. I moved around into different industries until I landed in public procurement. I really liked this industry and decided to get my MBA so that I could progress further as well as understand the full scope of procurement and this is where Project Management walked into my life. Once I completed my Master's degree I moved into Project Management Consulting. I have been in this industry for the last 3 years and enjoy the work that I have done.
One thing I will say is that you have to be prepared for the ever changing world in this industry. I strongly advised that any one stay the course on the pursuit of knowledge. The world is in a constant state of upgrade and in order to stay on top in the industry you have to be multifaceted, meaning you have to know everything that is going in all industries. This could include becoming proficient in Power BI, or understanding Block chain, knowing how AI is affecting automation in manufacturing, or utilizing Chat GPT for data analysis.
Another key idea is networking, become a networker. Make genuine connections with people across all engagements/projects you are on. Practice your elevator pitch and if you don't have one create one and practice.
My last bit of advice is to be prepared. Be prepared to work hard and long hours and to always be on top of your game.
One thing I will say is that you have to be prepared for the ever changing world in this industry. I strongly advised that any one stay the course on the pursuit of knowledge. The world is in a constant state of upgrade and in order to stay on top in the industry you have to be multifaceted, meaning you have to know everything that is going in all industries. This could include becoming proficient in Power BI, or understanding Block chain, knowing how AI is affecting automation in manufacturing, or utilizing Chat GPT for data analysis.
Another key idea is networking, become a networker. Make genuine connections with people across all engagements/projects you are on. Practice your elevator pitch and if you don't have one create one and practice.
My last bit of advice is to be prepared. Be prepared to work hard and long hours and to always be on top of your game.
Bob Burton
Consultant
76
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Bob’s Answer
Great question. First, in order to be a consultant one would normally need to have knowledge, skills, industry acknowledgement and the client contacts/networks specific to addressing a need the client is willing to pay for. Such expertise, known knowledge, skills and contacts are usually built over time. As indicated by Teresa, finding projects that will showcase your capabilities is a start.
Another route is, after graduation, to be able to join a consulting firm. The firm will, based upon your superior success in your college major, will expand your knowledge and skills applicable to solving problems for their client base. For example, should you major in finance, a consulting business focused upon coporate financial issues will train you to employ their tools used to address specific issues. You will be employed to work in a team to address similar corporate problems across various industries. The consulting firm will provide their tools, their network of clients, a team of financially astute men/women and a format they use for presentations to clients. Once you have mastered the knowledge, problem solving skills, presentation formats and networking, you can create your own consulting firm. Again, a project is usually the best way to be hired as a stand alone consultant.
In either case, you will need to focus upon your niche in terms of studying and succeeding in college in areas where the expertise as well as knowledge you develop has value to prospective clients.
Another example is Artificial Intelligence. I understand that a successful college graduate, majoring in this area, will potentially receive $175,000.00 as a starting salary.
I have been a global business consultant. It is a demanding job. At the same time, solving others problems is awesome.
Research various consulting firms. If you can, speak with someone in the business of consulting.
Another route is, after graduation, to be able to join a consulting firm. The firm will, based upon your superior success in your college major, will expand your knowledge and skills applicable to solving problems for their client base. For example, should you major in finance, a consulting business focused upon coporate financial issues will train you to employ their tools used to address specific issues. You will be employed to work in a team to address similar corporate problems across various industries. The consulting firm will provide their tools, their network of clients, a team of financially astute men/women and a format they use for presentations to clients. Once you have mastered the knowledge, problem solving skills, presentation formats and networking, you can create your own consulting firm. Again, a project is usually the best way to be hired as a stand alone consultant.
In either case, you will need to focus upon your niche in terms of studying and succeeding in college in areas where the expertise as well as knowledge you develop has value to prospective clients.
Another example is Artificial Intelligence. I understand that a successful college graduate, majoring in this area, will potentially receive $175,000.00 as a starting salary.
I have been a global business consultant. It is a demanding job. At the same time, solving others problems is awesome.
Bob recommends the following next steps:
Haylee Matecko, CPA, PMP
Manager
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Haylee’s Answer
Great question! I started my career in accounting, but was leveraging technology tools to do my job and quickly fell in love with the tech tools. What I found as I made my way into a technology consulting path was that 1) the passion for the tools was vital to be able to share that with clients, and 2) I needed to have a strong skill set in BOTH knowing the technology and being able to speak about it. It's important to be able to build a relationship with your clients so they see you as a trusted advisor, and those personal connections help drive it forward - as does communicating the value of the technology. So being able to come from a place of experience (i.e., my experience as a user) can really help as well!
Trent Davis
Senior Consultant
2
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Trent’s Answer
Back in high school, I discovered the world of consulting and realized the potential it held for making a positive impact by supporting organizations across various industries in achieving their goals and missions. During college, I actively sought out internships in the field of HR Consulting, and eventually secured a great internship that transitioned into a full-time position right after graduation. Building on that experience, I began exploring other consulting firms that aligned with my career goals and offered opportunities in different areas. This journey has led me to where I am today. My best advice is to familiarize yourself with the consulting industry and identify the specific domain or area of expertise that you can envision yourself excelling in.
Caroline Weatherford
DEI strategy
5
Answers
Louisville, Kentucky
Updated
Caroline’s Answer
Hi!
I came into consulting in a fairly non-traditional way utilizing a strong network. I was working on my Master in International Affairs at the Texas A&M Bush School of Government and Public Service. I was focusing on defense and national security studies and had already received a clearance from a prior internship. I was interested in what I could do outside traditional government work - luckily through the Aggie community, there were a lot Deloitte practitioners! I ended up have my resume forwarded to a recruiter and received an offer to interview. I was NOT at all prepared and had no idea that other MBAs had spent weeks prepping. But what I did have is a unique perspective and experience in a growing field for consulting. I got the job and kicked of a career doing strategy consulting for the defense sector
I came into consulting in a fairly non-traditional way utilizing a strong network. I was working on my Master in International Affairs at the Texas A&M Bush School of Government and Public Service. I was focusing on defense and national security studies and had already received a clearance from a prior internship. I was interested in what I could do outside traditional government work - luckily through the Aggie community, there were a lot Deloitte practitioners! I ended up have my resume forwarded to a recruiter and received an offer to interview. I was NOT at all prepared and had no idea that other MBAs had spent weeks prepping. But what I did have is a unique perspective and experience in a growing field for consulting. I got the job and kicked of a career doing strategy consulting for the defense sector
Melissa Casimir-Estevez
Consulting
4
Answers
Huntington, New York
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
Greetings! My path towards becoming a consultant is quite unconventional. I took a break to focus on my family and fortuitously, this role found me. To equip myself better, I underwent training and earned the necessary certifications. This role has been highly gratifying, offering experiences such as collaborative teamwork, independent assignments, and reporting tasks.
Skills like effective communication and self-motivation are incredibly valuable in this field. To gain a realistic perspective of the role, you might consider participating in an internship or externship. This hands-on experience can provide a glimpse into the day-to-day responsibilities, assisting you in making an informed career decision.
Access Your Potential's website offers a plethora of career opportunities, including internships and paid consulting externships specifically for nonprofits. To discover more, visit: http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
Skills like effective communication and self-motivation are incredibly valuable in this field. To gain a realistic perspective of the role, you might consider participating in an internship or externship. This hands-on experience can provide a glimpse into the day-to-day responsibilities, assisting you in making an informed career decision.
Access Your Potential's website offers a plethora of career opportunities, including internships and paid consulting externships specifically for nonprofits. To discover more, visit: http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
John Harmon
Consulting - Customer Transformation
5
Answers
Columbia, South Carolina
Updated
John’s Answer
Hello!
It's wonderful to see your enthusiasm for venturing into the dynamic world of consulting. Although there isn't a single surefire route to becoming part of a consulting firm, there are a few key steps you might want to take to gear up for this profession.
Firstly, ponder over the sector you wish to immerse yourself in. This could be Healthcare, Financial Services, TMT, Financial Crimes/Fraud Prevention, among others. You're not restricted to choose just one, but having a rough idea of your preferred consulting area would be beneficial.
Secondly, scrutinize the desired skills for consulting roles at the firms you're eyeing as potential career paths. Equip yourself with these skills to match the job requirements. Some of these might not be part of the usual college degree syllabus.
Thirdly, delve into some research about the companies you're thinking of applying to. Choose one or more that resonate with your personal values in terms of culture and mission.
Finally, take the plunge and apply! Highlight the groundwork you've laid for stepping into the consulting arena and polish your interview skills to leave a lasting impression on your interviewers.
Here's wishing you all the best in your journey.
It's wonderful to see your enthusiasm for venturing into the dynamic world of consulting. Although there isn't a single surefire route to becoming part of a consulting firm, there are a few key steps you might want to take to gear up for this profession.
Firstly, ponder over the sector you wish to immerse yourself in. This could be Healthcare, Financial Services, TMT, Financial Crimes/Fraud Prevention, among others. You're not restricted to choose just one, but having a rough idea of your preferred consulting area would be beneficial.
Secondly, scrutinize the desired skills for consulting roles at the firms you're eyeing as potential career paths. Equip yourself with these skills to match the job requirements. Some of these might not be part of the usual college degree syllabus.
Thirdly, delve into some research about the companies you're thinking of applying to. Choose one or more that resonate with your personal values in terms of culture and mission.
Finally, take the plunge and apply! Highlight the groundwork you've laid for stepping into the consulting arena and polish your interview skills to leave a lasting impression on your interviewers.
Here's wishing you all the best in your journey.
Anju Mathew
Business Technology Analyst
9
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Anju’s Answer
As someone who recently joined the consulting field, I can give an overview of my own experience on how I got here. I majored in computer science and minored in business in college and had two SWE internships. I realized a career in SWE was not what I wanted to pursue as I was not too keen on coding and more interested in the business side of things. While I did not have direct consulting experience in college, a lot of the skills learned from just my classes along with my internship experience were transferrable. I also fine tuned my excel and powerpoint skills as they are what most consider core consulting skills.
With consulting interviews you typically have to do what's called a case interview. This is where you're presented with a business case and asked to give a solution. There's typically a method of doing these interviews which you can learn from case interview prep books, or just prepping online. I rigorously studied the roadmap for these interviews and practices hundreds of cases to properly prepare myself. The prep is something I would highly recommend, and even practicing with someone. Having a case buddy is extremely helpful as it mimics the real life scenario of being interviewed.
These were the steps I took to land my job in consulting and I hope they might be helpful to whoever is reading this!
With consulting interviews you typically have to do what's called a case interview. This is where you're presented with a business case and asked to give a solution. There's typically a method of doing these interviews which you can learn from case interview prep books, or just prepping online. I rigorously studied the roadmap for these interviews and practices hundreds of cases to properly prepare myself. The prep is something I would highly recommend, and even practicing with someone. Having a case buddy is extremely helpful as it mimics the real life scenario of being interviewed.
These were the steps I took to land my job in consulting and I hope they might be helpful to whoever is reading this!
Jasveer Kherha
Life Sciences Management Consultant
2
Answers
Fair Lawn, New Jersey
Updated
Jasveer’s Answer
A dozen years ago, I embarked on my consulting adventure, initially unsure of what this field would demand. As I matured within the industry, I've gleaned some valuable insights. If you're aspiring to build a career in consulting, I highly recommend exploring internships. These opportunities often provide a clearer picture of where your strengths align with specific offerings or industries. Moreover, acquiring new skills and familiarizing yourself with emerging technologies can significantly boost your professional growth. Stay curious, stay eager, and you're bound to succeed!
Hanna Lalani
HR Consultant
3
Answers
Chandler, Arizona
Updated
Hanna’s Answer
Hello there! I'd suggest starting off by exploring the array of majors that Consulting firms typically favor. For instance, Deloitte often specifies the kind of degrees they're on the lookout for in their job advertisements, like Psychology or Business, to name a few. It's crucial to pick a degree that genuinely sparks your interest, rather than randomly choosing one with the sole aim of landing a Consulting job. To share a personal anecdote, my initial plan was to become a Psychologist, but I discovered that my skills and interests were well-suited for a role in Consulting when I encountered my current firm. My first job post-college was in Consulting, and I absolutely loved it - a passion that continues to this day! You could also reach out to individuals currently working in Consulting firms via LinkedIn, and see if they'd be willing to spare a few minutes for a chat and share their experiences. I hope you find this advice useful!
Maheshika Ruwanpathirana
Manager
4
Answers
Leander, Texas
Updated
Maheshika’s Answer
Hello,
Please see below.
1) Identify the area in which you have significant knowledge and experience
2) Build your expertise by gaining practical experience in your field
3) Sharpen your problem-solving, communication and analytical skills
4) Build a network
5) Practice your skills
Please see below.
1) Identify the area in which you have significant knowledge and experience
2) Build your expertise by gaining practical experience in your field
3) Sharpen your problem-solving, communication and analytical skills
4) Build a network
5) Practice your skills
Leona Jost
Consulting
2
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated