The management consulting industry isn’t for everyone; some consultants move on to another profession or launch a successful business. This doesn’t mean that they weren’t good at what they did; they may have discovered new opportunities for attaining their life goals.

Needless to say, management consulting is a great stepping-stone for other careers or business endeavors. Individuals who have worked in a top consulting firm know what it takes to be successful in the business world due to their experience working in highly competitive markets. They have knowledge in business areas such as applying for permits, drafting contracts, forecasting, and creating organizational charts. Even a basic understanding of these concepts will help ex-consultants with their entrepreneurial activities.

Benefits of a Management Consulting Foundation

As mentioned above, some consultants use the industry as a stepping-stone for startups. Because of the stability of the industry, professionals who perform well use it as a fallback or safety net if their startup doesn’t work out or unforeseen circumstances threaten its feasibility.

In addition, experience working at a top-tier management consulting firm builds  credibility. Well-known firms that have a reputation founded on integrity and trust impose the same qualities on their employees. An individual with superior management consulting credentials can use the popularity of the firm for personal gain without exploiting the firm’s status.

Starting a business can be costly—many individuals can’t afford to pursue their dream of owning their own company. Finding investors for a startup requires a strong network—but not just any network. One needs contacts who have the extra cash to invest in a business, and because companies that hire management consultants have a large budget, working in the industry provides more opportunities for locating partners and pooling capital.

Startups

It’s not unusual for consultants to gravitate towards entrepreneurship after leaving the industry. Professionals who have experience in day-to-day business operations may find the transition to be smoother than those who specialize in hedge funds and mergers. However, most consultants make great business owners because they have the competitive drive and motivation to run a business. Long  hours and busy schedules are not new to management consultants. Adjusting to a “big-picture” mindset is fairly simple due to prior experience in forecasting and applying consulting frameworks. It’s just a matter of knowing the right information and finding the right niche.

Running a successful business includes managing the requests and needs of clients, which is also a key role of consultants. These are skills that usually take years to develop and will give consultants an edge over their competition.

Graduate School

Another option that consultants have when leaving the industry is graduate school. An MBA can serve as a reliable fallback when shifting careers. Some firms offer to pay their employees’ tuition if they agree to stay with the company for a specified period. Professionals may choose this option as a way to get away from the hectic consulting lifestyle for awhile. Alternatively, a consulting background can also help individuals get into top universities, which can then serve to advance their consulting career. And some alternative professions hire ex-consultants who have a proven track record of experience and educational attainment.

Freelance

Not all management consultants choose to start their own company; some begin as freelancers and eventually open their own firm. There are some advantages to this shift. First, you set your schedule, so you don’t have to be at the office at a specific time. This allows for more flexibility in meeting with clients and completing daily tasks. Second, you have the potential to earn more. However, it takes a lot of hard work and perseverance to maintain a steady flow of projects. If you are a highly motivated individual, you should be able to make a profit. Finally, if you’ve build a strong consulting network, it shouldn’t take long to build a client base with those who you’ve forged a professional bond with and who trust your services. Moreover, your contacts will be able to recommend you, which is invaluable considering that you need more clients to keep your practice going.

Corporate Positions

Depending on their interests, ex-consultants can take on key corporate roles in reputable organizations. Fortune 500 companies hire consultants and add them to their team of strategists. Other corporate roles include coordinators, researchers, and operation management. Consultants may choose this new career path because of the slower work pace and less stressful environment, not to mention the lighter workload.

Government Roles

Although not as common as the options listed above, some consultants choose to pursue a political career, usually transitioning into an advisory or a strategist role. While the work hours are generally longer and the pay is substantially lower, those who choose to go into politics feel that it’s their calling, despite the drawbacks. If properly planned, a career shift into a leading government role can solidify one’s network, which will come in handy in the future.

Making a Clean Transition

Planning an exit strategy doesn’t happen overnight. Those who plan to leave the consulting industry usually prepare years in advance. There are points to consider when preparing to switch to a different, more desirable career path. In order to maximize the consulting experience, it’s recommended to specialize in order to make the transition smoother. For example, if you want to work as a pharmaceutical strategist, then you should take on projects in the pharmaceutical industry. You will be able to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of the new industry and start building a network of clients. In addition, a recruiter will able to ascertain from your resume that you’ve planned to change careers and have taken the initiative to acquire quality experience.

The Importance of a Solid Network

A reoccurring theme of this article is building a solid network. If you’re planning to exit the consulting industry, it’s vital to maintain and expand your network—it’s one of your biggest assets. Your network will provide you with business leads, partners, funding, and if it doesn’t workout, a way back into the  industry. Before you leave the world of consulting, it’s essential to maintain relevant contacts and make a lasting impression on them. This may mean taking additional time in providing consulting services or going out of your way to deliver outstanding results.

In conclusion, there are plenty of exit opportunities for a management consultant. You should begin preparing for this phase as early as possible in order to decrease the risks involved with the transition. The two most important aspects of an exit strategy are maintaining a strong network and accumulating relevant experience through projects related to the next chapter of your professional career.

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Many highly motivated graduates and professionals are attracted to the management consulting industry due to the appealing benefits it offers. These perks include high monthly salary, rich business experience, skills improvement, and wide professional networks.

Getting a consulting job, however, entails conscientious preparation because of the tough competition. For students, this means working hard to get a high GPA, being involved in extracurricular activities, joining case competitions, practicing case interviews, and participating in professional events where they get to meet recruiters and other people in the industry.

Why Take an Internship Program

Another smart move students take is applying for an internship program, a period in which students get real-world consulting responsibilities and work hand-in-hand with professional consultants. This opportunity allows them to be spotted by firms through their work output, communication skills, and dedication they put in their job. Some successful interns even get a full-time employment contract at the end of their internship program.

Where to Have Your Consulting Internship

Most major and boutique consulting firms offer an internship program to promising students, but for a satisfying experience, you may want to consider Vault.com’s internship survey results. The website summarized the responses they heard from 7,700 interns who gave feedback on more than a hundred internship programs. The respondents rated their experience on the following areas:

• Quality of life
• Compensation and benefits
• Interview process
• Career development
• Full-time employment opportunities

The top five consulting internships are the following:

#1: Bain & Company

Bain, one of the renowned Big Three consulting firms, has consistently ranked in the first place. Interns get various tasks but are generally assigned to gather and analyze data, conduct researches and interviews with clients, customers and suppliers, and summarize their findings for the project team. Interns learn about business issues as well as Bain’s tools and strategies.

#2: Bates White Economic Consulting

Founded in 1999, Bates White offers economic consulting services to Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and law firms. During its 10-week internship, participants are assigned to a specific assignment. They will work under the supervision of a senior staff, and they are expected to receive their share of both qualitative and quantitative challenges.

#3: Plante Moran

Plante Moran is a tax, audit and business-management firm that caters to private organizations, governmental entities, and financial institutions. Their internship program, which usually lasts for three to six months, provides interns in Midwest offices valuable experience and practical exposure to accounting profession.

#4: The Boston Consulting Group

BCG’s rank moved down from second to fourth. This reputable firm hires summer interns for 10 weeks and assigns them to a case similar to what professional consultants and associates work on. This entails business analysis as well as communicating with clients and BCG partners. BCG interns receive extensive training and structured coaching from the firm.

#5: PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)

PwC facilitates a training program for all its interns to develop their technical skills and prepare them for relevant assignments. Interns will work side-by-side with PwC professionals for performance coaching and project guidance. At the end of the program, interns will learn the various services of PwC.

Learn More

Download our ebook on how to break into the consulting industry. It elaborates strategies for resume writing, networking and acing interviews. The guidelines you’ll learn can also be applied to your internship application.

Reference

• Top 10 Consulting Internships – Vault

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Many new graduates and professionals aspire to break into the billion dollar consulting industry, and most of them think that an MBA is a necessary part of achieving that goal. But is it really?

Yes, pursuing an MBA can definitely help accelerate your future career progression as well as your perceived market value; however, not all MBA’s are equal, and not all MBA holders reap the career benefits they expect.

MBA Benefits

An MBA provides several advantages, some of which include:

MBA Admissions and Consulting

Many people think that the relationship between top business schools and top consulting firms is like a revolving door, i.e., people from McKinsey get into Stanford Business School, and people from Stanford get into McKinsey. Well, that may be true to some extent, but it’s not that simple.

Yes, business schools perceive consulting as great work experience; however, they also want a diversified student body. In general, top business schools don’t admit more than a third of ex-consultants into their MBA programs. As a result, a paradoxical situation exists: consultants wish they had other work experience and non-consultants wish they had some consulting experience. So, what should you do? Granted that you still want to get an MBA, the best thing to do is stop worrying, and focus your time and energy on improving your application.

If you’re not a consultant, emphasize your business experience, and explain how an MBA degree, combined with your experience, can help you become a successful business leader. If you’re a consultant, focus on your accomplishments and why you’re more well-rounded than other admissions candidates.

Is an MBA a Requisite for Landing a Consulting Job?

Although an MBA can be an advantage in landing a consulting role, it doesn’t guarantee anything. To succeed as a consultant, there’s another important factor to consider— experience.

While many consultants hold MBA degrees, not everyone who consults for top-tier firms has an MBA. Yes, education is important, there’s no question about that. However, it doesn’t mean you have the ability to solve complex problems—that’s something you learn from experience. Believe it or not, successful consultants rarely go to business school in order to land the job.

Moreover, firms usually offer MBA-like training to their staff. They send many of their non-MBAs to mini-MBA boot camps to learn the most important and up-to-date business tools and concepts. Once you’re hired by a reputable consultancy firm, you’ll be able to take advantage of these training opportunities.

Why do Some Consultants Choose to Get an MBA?

Some consultants with years of real-world experience choose to get their MBA degrees for several reasons. For one, an MBA on its own warrants a higher salary; an MBA degree plus real-world experience allows for both better monetary benefits and a position higher on the corporate ladder.

Also, if a consultant wants to move to another firm, an MBA may make sense. This is particularly true if you’re targeting a firm that’s more selective than your current firm or if your target firm places heavy emphasis on an MBA. Some top firms, like BCG, even sponsor their high performing associates who want to pursue MBA degrees.

If you already have a consulting background, an MBA is usually unnecessary, but it could help you garner the respect of those unfamiliar with the industry. Moreover, clients will be more confident in your abilities if they know you have both experience and education.

In Which Cases is it Actually Better to Get an MBA First?

Let’s face it—real-world experience usually outweighs theory. That’s why you can break into the consulting industry even without an MBA. Remember, getting an MBA can be really expensive, so you should be absolutely certain you need an MBA before you apply.

In some cases, getting an MBA before applying to a consulting firm may be a smart option. For instance:

• If you have additional long-term goals aside from being a consultant that require an MBA.

• If you’ve already applied to a number of consulting firms and were rejected by all of them. If you seem to have no luck with your consulting application, even after writing a great resume and properly preparing for interviews, then maybe an MBA can help you.

• If you feel that your past experience and credentials would qualify you to get into a top business school but not a top consulting firm.

• If you’re extremely passionate about learning the advanced management theory that an MBA can offer, whether or not you plan to use it. Of course it would be great if you could use it, but there are also people who just love learning for learning’s sake, whatever the cost. Keep in mind that many MBA holders say that they only apply a portion of what they learned in school toward their actual consulting projects.

So, How Much of What is Taught in Business School Actually Helps in Consulting?

Well, this really depends on the school and curriculum you choose. Each consultancy firm will train you on management frameworks and other tools that are directly related to the job. So you really need to be selective about the school and curriculum. Good business schools can help you develop different perspectives to approaching business issues, as well as help improve your general teamwork and leadership skills, which are critical for a successful consulting career.

How to Break into Consulting without an MBA

Many jobseekers mistakenly assume that an MBA is needed in order to land a consulting job. The truth is, you can break into the consulting world if you have relevant years of experience as well as notable accomplishments related to business or consulting.

To help you get started, you should do or have the following:

Improve Your Job Application Documents

Update and polish your resume and cover letter. Your cover letter and resume are your primary weapons in your job search. Consulting firms are greatly impressed with well-structured resumes that efficiently convey the skills they’re looking for. They place the most emphasis on the following: solid education credentials, relevant functional expertise and accomplishments, and a proven track record.

Most firms are tolerant of “career changers”; however, it will be challenging to provide a rational story about why you wanted to shift careers. When perfecting your resume, place more importance on conveying your experience, enthusiasm, and skills (leadership, analytical, and communication). Don’t stress over formatting— just make it simple, concise, and professional.

List and Research

Make a list of 10 to 15 consultancies that you’d like to work for, then research each firm. Visit their websites or, if possible, talk to someone who’s associated with the firms. Before you even send your application to your chosen firms, it’s critical that you’re familiar with their preferred methodology, projects they’ve worked on, and most important, the people who work for the company. Based on your research, you’ll be able to narrow your list down to a few firms.

Determine Your Qualifications

Brainstorm over the reasons you’re suited for consulting, even without an MBA. To help you, create a list of traits that successful consultants have in common, then write out in specific detail your experiences that demonstrate each trait, including the results and what you learned. This will help you build your confidence when interviewing with recruiters.

Network

Quality networking can take you places. Learn how to properly connect with influential people in the industry. Who knows, you may be able to connect with current or former McKinsey or Bain consultants. Use online tools, like LinkedIn, to help you build a strong network of professionals who can help move your career forward. However, keep in mind that your goal isn’t to ask them for a job, but for relevant advice such as recruiting insights, resume feedback, and other information that you can leverage. Your networking efforts may even connect you with consultants and recruiters who can refer you to one of your target consulting firms.

Work on Your Educational Qualifications

An impressive undergraduate education can also help you achieve your dream of working at a top-tier consulting firm. To be successful, you’ll need to demonstrate the following in your application:

Remember, consulting firms hire candidates based on their demonstrated traits and skills. With or without an MBA, you can make it in this prestigious industry. If you enjoy problem-diagnosis, problem-framing, and problem-solving, and have a genuine passion for client service and effecting positive change, all you really need to do is write a great resume and cover letter and ace the interview process.

Learn More

Want more insights on how to break into the prestigious and lucrative world of consulting? Download and read our free consulting guide. It contains valuable tips that can help pave your way to becoming one of the next top consultants.

For additional information about getting an MBA degree, check this article of Consultants Mind.

Reference

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One of the “Big 4” consulting companies has confirmed that a merger will take place. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) is set to purchase Booz & Company. Sources say that the buy is one of the more notable moves by PWC due to the large financial transaction.

Merger Details

One of the concerns that their clients have raised is the conflict of interests from both firms. As a temporary solution, Booz & Co. will let go some projects that may cause issues with the merge. While talks are currently underway, a vote on the matter won’t happen until December 2013. PWC is expected to keep most of Booz & Company’s partners and clients.

Out of the two key consulting firms, PWC has the larger fiscal capacity due to its reported earnings of 32 billion dollars for 2013. Analysts estimate that Booz & Company’s earnings were at 1 billion dollars. Over the past 10 years, PWC has been busy heavily developing the consulting side of its operations after a deal with IBM in 2002. By purchasing Booz & Co, the firm hopes to fast track the growth of the firm. Currently, PWC’s consulting operations contributes to over 25% of the company’s annual earnings.

Plans of Expansion

In the 3rd quarter of 2013, PWC announced that they would prioritize the expansion of operations globally. Actions for this plan will happen over the course of 3 years. The firm has allocated a 1 billion dollar budget for the expansion. How PWC will integrate the merge with Booz & Company in its plans is still yet unknown.

Deloitte, one of PWC’s main competitors, has previously done the same thing and bought out firms such as: Altos Management Partners, AJM Petroleum Consultants, Jackson Browne, Access Economics. Clear Carbon Consulting, and DOMANI Sustainability Consulting. This time, to the public’s surprise, Deloitte did not follow after PWC after their purchase of Booz & Company.

Concerns About the Merger

There are several concerns that the public has about the merger. Most of these issues are related to auditing. SEC former chief accountant, Lynn Turner, mentions the following in an interview about the merger:

“Mergers like this do raise a serious question: are the auditors going to serve management, or are they going to serve the best interests of the investing public?”

Later in the interview, Lynn further expounds on this matter:

“If the combined firm agrees not to do consulting for companies it audits, “then you eliminate the conflict,” (said in a doubtful tone). Do you honestly think Booz partners would turn around and vote for this deal if they gave up all of their clients that PwC audits?”

While the details of the merger still being developed, it is certain that Booz & Company is unable to compete with its larger rivals such as McKinsey and Bain & Co. For the mean time, before the votes take place, both firms will continue to work with their clients and provide consulting services.

Reference

• PwC Agrees to Purchase Booz to Expand Advisory Services

These days, there are many tools a management consultant can use in order to maximize productivity and time spent on a project or case. Many top-tier consulting firms place a high emphasis on a candidate’s computer skills. Of course, you need to be proficient in Excel and PowerPoint as a consultant, but it will help your career if you are also tech-savvy.

Software and Internet Skills

Most professionals have a difficult time maintaining their consulting network because of the demanding workload. But with social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, it’s relatively easy to keep in contact with other management consultants, classmates, clients, and former colleagues. This method has become increasingly popular in the past few years because of its flexible features, which allow individuals to stay engaged with their professional network from home or on the road.

Apart from social media, there are numerous online applications that increase productivity. Many consultants rely on these various programs and applications to boost their careers. Below are some examples:

PDF Files

The process of combining, compressing, and downloading is something that every consultant should know. Consultants work with a lot of documents and knowing how to properly and quickly edit and create PDF files is extremely important.

Task Management Skills and Tools

Task management skills and tools are effective in boosting productivity, in both an individual and team setting. Allocating assignments and information using a task management system can be done with a few clicks. Tracking the progress of projects can be done in real-time instead of waiting for end of the day reports. Lastly, using a task management system can lower the error rate within the firm.

Basic PhotoShop Skills

Photoshop may not sound like an important consulting skill, but it’s definitely helpful. It has a few more features than PowerPoint and other similar office applications and can be used to shrink, edit, or convert an image file. Photoshop is also extremely useful in customizing templates creating presentations.

Safe and Secure Data Sharing

Cloud applications are becoming increasingly common in management consulting firms. Cloud programs, such as Dropbox and Google Drive, make sharing documents incredibly easy and quick, and security settings enable the safe transfer of private and confidential documents across these types of applications. It’s recommended, however, to verify the consulting firm’s security policy before sharing information.

Research is a large part of a consultant’s responsibility. In regard to online research, the resourcefulness of an individual depends on how well he or she can use a search engine. Entering the right keywords and knowing which websites provide credible and up-to-date information can make a world of a difference when compiling necessary data about a client or its competitors. Online research can also save a consultant time. Instead of leaving the office to interview company representatives or digging into the archives, a quick online search allows room for other tasks that need completed.

PowerPoint, Excel, and Word

Management consultants rely on computer software programs, such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, when creating documents and presentations. To some extent, many professionals have an above average knowledge of these programs. Let’s take a closer look at how these programs are used in the consulting industry.

It’s common for consultants to use Excel to graph data analysis. Employing the  proper formulas can streamline computing and input, which can be used for forecasting or evaluation. Excel is also a more organized way of arranging numbers and information in tables. While it’s true that a professional can get by with basic Excel skills, going beyond the beginner level can make a consultant’s work faster and more precise. For example, consultants can customize and store multiple equations, enabling them to quickly utilize numerical data. It’s a great way to crunch numbers without the messy manual computations.

Word is primarily used for drafting documents and reports. A consultant with a thorough understanding of this program may only spend a fraction of the time drafting a proposal compared to a beginner. Although viewed as the simplest of all the Office applications, Word actually has numerous options that can be used to make the drafting experience smoother. Spacing, indention, track changes, and comments are features that can enhance the professionalism of any document. This program can also be used to create newsletters. A management consultant may find this option useful for providing the team or company with  weekly updates. In addition, converting a Word document into various file formats is relatively easy and can be done with just a few clicks.

Perhaps the most overlooked and unused program is PowerPoint. But this program can be extremely helpful in creating professional presentations, and looking professional is part of a consultant’s role. Consultants frequently present their findings to CEOs, the board of a company, or senior staff. While it’s true that the quality of information is more important than the actual color scheme or theme of the presentation, adding these elements can certainly enhance the delivery and how it’s received. More importantly, PowerPoint can be used to compress information. Consultants may need to review a few years of data, but the client doesn’t need to know what’s on every page. A summary of findings is best presented using slides and graphs. A great PowerPoint presentation makes use of an easy to follow structure, which helps convey complex messages to a client. Many consultants use a template to display the framework they applied using tables and graphics. This can be very helpful for professionals who are presenting a very complicated solution. Consultants must also consider the quality of the slides and content when making a PowerPoint presentation. Avoid using stock clipart or 3D images. Blurry or irrelevant photos can also lower the value of a presentation, as these small details can confuse clients.

A versatile management consultant knows how to use all of these programs. One may start compiling data using Word, and then input his or her findings in Excel using the formulas to create charts. Lastly, PowerPoint is used for presenting the proposal in a very eye-catching and direct way.

How Can I Hone My Computer and Internet Skills?

There are a few effective ways that a consultant can hone his or her computer and Internet skills. The key thing is to stay updated with the latest software and online application trends. There are hundreds of productivity applications available in the market today. Sadly, not all of them are useful, and some may even do more harm than good. On the other hand, applications that combine the features of various productivity programs may boost a consultant’s adeptness and competency.

The Dangers of Inadequate Computer Skills

Lack of computer knowledge can hurt a consultant’s career. A consultant works with sensitive and confidential information on a regular basis and regularly shares this information through email, cloud storage, and cellphones. Without the proper security settings in place, data leakage could have a negative impact on a consultant’s integrity, and a client may get discouraged about supplying private information in the future.

As mentioned earlier, without the proper computer skills in place, a consultant may find him or herself trailing behind. Most consultancy firms implement their own set of computer programs within the company and require employees to use them for correspondence and reports. At the very least, these applications often necessitate basic computer skills. The faster an employee learns how to  use these programs, the better he or she will be at performing other tasks within the office because the computer programs a company uses are integrated to seamlessly work together.

In conclusion, as technology finds its way into today’s offices and companies, the more computer and Internet skills will become essential to management consultants. Learning these skills can be as simple as using the applications  mentioned in this article on a daily basis. Finally, more and more high caliber consulting firms are looking for this skill set in prospective applicants. It’s important to keep an open mind about how these applications can increase a consultant’s productivity level.

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The consulting industry is perceived to be both prestigious and lucrative, and consultants are reputed as leaders and experts in the field. Many business organizations retain the services of consultants to help them assess areas of opportunity, develop strategic plans, and implement change in order to achieve desired growth or surpass specific hurdles.

With such extraordinary responsibilities, it’s no wonder many people aspire to work in the field. In fact, according to CNN Money Magazine, consulting jobs ranked third in their study, “50 Best Jobs in the United States,” which was based on relevant criteria such as satisfying nature of the position, potential position growth, flexibility, median salary, and stress level.

As consultants are expected to offer innovative solutions and recommendations, wouldn’t it be interesting to understand how they think and tend to see things in a different perspective? Understanding what consultants know and how they perceive things will help  jump start your consulting career.

Data are Just Useless Numbers Unless They Tell a Story

Any set of data is useless until it tells a story. That’s why consultants dedicate a generous amount of time to creating and analyzing charts. Great consultants have the ability to identify relevant details in a massive amount of information. They are so obsessed with data that they can uncover the valuable story behind it. Consultants have that special ability to translate vaguely interesting data into useful insights and recommendations. Not all people have the natural instinct to uncover the story behind any set of given data. But consultants know how to recognize relevant facts and organize numbers and present them in a way that can be easily understood by their clients. Consultants are paid well because of their ability to see the big picture. They are extremely good at connecting the dots and bringing their clients the utmost value.

There is Always More than One Solution to a Problem

Consultants know that a different perspective can work. Great consultants have original ideas yet welcome other options. They listen, analyze, and solve. A critical skill of consultants is the ability to look at things differently compared to the average manager. They know that in order to put it all together, they need to consider every possible angle.

Consultants are hired to solve problems. It’s their responsibility to evaluate situations, identify the problems, and propose the best solutions. They know how to examine an issue from all sides and analyze how the different aspects of a particular situation interrelate. Thus, they can come up with more than one approach to solving an issue. But of course, they keep the best option first on their list.

Things are a Lot Simpler When You Break Them Down

Many organizations become overwhelmed by their problems because they lack the expertise to strategically break down the areas that need addressed. Consultants have the ability to break down business operations into a series of process steps in order to reveal the underlying problems. Great consultants know that the best way to figure out the problem is to split up its subcomponents. A consultant’s mind works like a diagram or flow-chart, making it easier to solve a problem, as every fragment of it is clearly defined.

Listening is More Powerful than Talking

Having a solid education is great but it’s not enough. In consulting, being an active listener is an important trait. Consultants recognize that good listening skills are powerful in gathering crucial information. Consulting isn’t just about speaking your mind; before you can make an intelligent recommendation about an issue, you need to listen. This means being able to encourage others to talk freely as well. The information shared by the people you talk to can contribute to positive results.

In order to be successful in consulting, you need to have the ability to hear and genuinely understand the people you’re talking with. Great consultants recognize that listening is the key to connecting with people on personal levels, which is critical for successful project implementation.

Curiosity and Skepticism Should go Hand in Hand

Consultants are naturally curious and skeptical. They always ask the right questions, listen carefully, and are professionally skeptical. Great consultants recognize that some of the most important details aren’t immediately presented to them, and know that asking tough questions will generate value for their clients.

Being inquisitive may sometimes be annoying; however, if done properly, it can facilitate the desired results. Consultants have the ability to see issues differently than their clients see them. They can also easily make objective evaluations which aren’t clouded by politics and other perplexing factors surrounding a problem. They tell their clients what they need to know in a straightforward manner.

Team Dynamics is Extremely Important

Consultants are known to have a thorough knowledge about the industry, and as such make monumental decisions on behalf of companies. However, being an expert doesn’t mean rejecting other ideas. Consultants know that teamwork is essential for any successful project.

Consultants recognize that although they’re primary responsible for solving a case, a collaborative relationship with their team members is vital to achieving the goal. Good consultants credit other ideas and are willing to learn from their peers. Valuing others’ input is a mark of a true professional.

However, bringing together different people with large egos to work on a project for a client may not always be an easy task. Great consultants understand how to effectively optimize the working styles, personality types, and abilities of their team members in structuring a project. These tricks are key to efficient teamwork.

“I Don’t Know” Is Not an Option

Saying “I don’t know” is considered a mortal sin in the consulting industry. These three words are detrimental to the reputation of any consultant. Although they may not immediately know the answer to every question, their minds continuously work to find the solution. Consultants are expected to have a broad expertise; that’s why they stay current on news, innovations, and trends through reading informative materials and networking with colleagues.

However, it’s also true that even the most experienced consultant doesn’t know everything. In this case, saying “I don’t know” is still not an acceptable answer. They know that the best way to convey their lack of knowledge about a problem is to say, “I don’t know, but I know someone who does know.”

By the Book is Not Always Applicable

Successful consultants don’t always follow what they’ve learned in books. They’re aware that there should be a balance between knowledge gained from books and knowledge acquired from real life experience.

Models and frameworks are great, but sometimes consultants need to bring things down to a more practical level. Their main priority is to design and implement the best solutions for their clients. In order to do this, they look at things from all angles and consider every possible solution, whether conventional or not. They know how to devise a practical approach coupled with applicable theories.

Logic Doesn’t Necessarily Mean Numbers

Consultants are known to be analytical thinkers who are good at solving quantitative problems. However, these professionals recognize that logic doesn’t necessarily mean excelling at quantitative computations. You can be a great mathematician but a terrible consultant. Great consultants know that an understanding of quantitative subjects can be advantageous but doesn’t guarantee anything.

Other professionals, such as lawyers and historians, are also extremely analytical, yet their ideas are not merely founded on quantitative elements. This is because logic entails one’s thought process. Great consultants are aware that the ability to correlate the gathered data is more important than mere quantitative computations in generating useful insights.

Not All Days are Created Equal

We all have bad days, and even the greatest consultants can hit a brick wall. But they’re resilient and have the ability to pick themselves up—they know that predictability isn’t in their job description.

The consulting industry isn’t for the faint hearted. There will be days that entail a higher  level of stress than most. But successful consultants are aware that part of their job is to motivate their team to carry on until they see the light at the end of the tunnel. Some problems may be more difficult to solve than others, but a good consultant embraces the opportunity to learn and grow from the experience.

Network Requires Brainwork

Networking is critical in consulting, not only at the beginning of your career but also as you progress. In order to build a strong network of professionals, you need to think and strategize in order to maximize the potential benefits.

Consultants have limitless opportunities to make new contacts and successful consultants take advantage of this. However, it’s not enough to simply ask for business cards or add new online contacts; you need to understand that networking is an active process.  Consultants know how to effectively build and maintain strong relationships with key people in the industry.

Feedback is Critical

Consultants are used to being evaluated as they undergo a formal review every six months. They’re rated based on a set of metrics after every project. Some even have weekly feedback sessions and are corrected even for moderate slips. This may be unsettling for most people, but the process is incredibly valuable. Great consultants value feedback and are always willing to talk through what he/she can do differently. As with any profession, you need to be aware of your strong and weak points in order to improve.

Word of Mouth Advertising Goes Far

According to Nielsen’s “Global Trust in Advertising” report, people don’t trust advertising as much as they trust recommendations from friends and consumer opinions. The company surveyed more than 28,000 respondents in 56 countries and found that 92% of consumers trust endorsements from friends and family above any other form of advertising.

Consultants are acutely aware of this and provide valuable services as a marketing tool. They understand that growth can be achieved through persistence and foresight. Successful consulting professionals effectively demonstrate humility and satisfaction in helping their clients. And in the end, people will find ways to give credit where it’s due.

The consulting industry remains one of the most sought after industries today, and only those candidates with brilliant minds and fresh and unique perspectives are able to break in. No wonder professionals in this industry know things that most people don’t realize.

Learn More

Want to find out more about management consulting? Download our guide, How to Get a Management Consulting Job, and learn how you can break into this prestigious industry. We will teach you how to write an impressive application, pass the tests, and ace the case interviews.

References

• Best Jobs in America

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Management consulting is a very specific niche or calling. Successful consultants are known to possess qualities and characteristics that are essential for carrying out the rigorous duties associated with the role.

Contrary to popular belief, the characteristics of a successful management consultant can be honed through years of practice. Before we dive into the specific qualities, let’s take a closer look at what the job entails in order to better understand what type of individuals fair well in the profession.

Not Your Typical Office Job

The way the media portrays management consulting is very different from what the job is really like. Consultants are trained to think outside the box. This also applies to their work schedule. Most consultants are required to work and travel on a regular basis, which can be very disconcerting. The traveling aspect is a concern for many consultants because it’s an unpredictable factor in their hectic schedule of meeting deadlines and writing reports.

Furthermore, clients can be extremely demanding, primarily because they feel somewhat uneasy about putting the fate of their company in the hands of a management consultant. The pressure of the job is another factor that can make the most seasoned and experienced consultants fold. It takes an individual with a strong and disciplined mind to get through weeks of brainstorming and meetings while staying 100% focused.

Consistency is expected and is one of the hardest parts of the profession. Top consulting firms require their employees to stay sharp in every aspect of the job. In the beginning this can seem like a walk in the park, but midway into a consultant’s career when the stakes are higher, it may not be that easy.

So, what are the qualities of a highly successful consultant? Read more to find out.

Communication and Social Skills

A consultant must have strong communication and social skills—it’s an unavoidable aspect of the profession. Professionals are required to talk to clients and colleagues, report to their superiors, hold meetings, present at conferences, and more. Many individuals who simply try to present themselves as friendly or sociable won’t make the cut because consultants are required to be sociable 24/7. When a consultant isn’t at the office or in a meeting, he or she might be networking or taking a group of clients to lunch. Even those who are naturally outgoing or comfortable around people may feel that this side of the job can get overwhelming at times. Introverts may find it difficult to compete with other consultants who are more vocal. This doesn’t mean that all successful consultants are extroverts; however, in order to cope with the social aspects of the job, employees who are shy and timid may need to exert twice the effort to breakdown personal boundaries that may be hindering them from performing well.

Quick and Organized Thinking

Management consultants are required to sift through endless amounts of information while formulating a solution, which requires a well-structured mind.  It’s almost like stepping into the middle of a battlefield; a consultant may have an arsenal of frameworks memorized, but organized thinking also includes efficient application. A consultant must know when to use what he or she has learned in order to arrive at the best solution. Without this skill, it may take some time for an individual to reach a feasible solution; a luxury that most consultants don’t have.

Adaptability

Each client is different. Even if they are competitors in the same industry, working with the same products, services, and concerns, internally (i.e., structure, mission, forecasts) they are very different. A successful consultant is required to acclimate and adapt to the needs of the client as well as meet the objectives set by his or her superiors. This is not a simple feat, even though most consulting firms specialize in specific industries and sectors.

Moreover, consultants must also adapt to global trends, which may require a renewed mindset. Consultants are expected to be caught up to speed in a short amount of time. This may mean reading and comprehending a large amount of information over a few cups of coffee.

Work Exceptionally Well in a Team

A team of consultants who work well together can be a powerful force in a high caliber firm. Unfortunately, the opposite is also true. Management consultants who are great on their own but are unable to work well in a team can easily derail a project. Teamwork is an essential part of being a consultant. It’s not practical to attempt to do everything alone; those who try may burn themselves out. A highly successful consultant knows the strengths and weakness of each of his or her teammates and is able to maximize the potential of each member, which saves time and effort.

Working effectively in a team also requires a consultant to be sensitive to the needs of others. The ability to empathize with a group of consultants is hard to come by. Most consultants have a tough outer shell, but a successful consultant in charge of leading a team knows when to push and motivate and when to relax and take a break- even when the other members of the team aren’t backing down. Strong empathy skills can raise productivity and prevent breakdowns.

Superior Math Skills

A consultant must also be well versed in the technical aspect of the occupation. This includes mental math abilities as well as analytical skills. Even though calculators and spreadsheets are readily available, it doesn’t necessarily mean they should be used for every calculation. Imagine pulling out a calculator in the middle of a presentation in front of the senior staff in a multi-national company—it doesn’t fit the image of an expert consultant. More importantly, the computation must be accurate. It’s true that most computations are rough averages or estimates, but even so, the margins provided by a management consultant aren’t too far off the actual mark.

Part of the work of a consultant requires analyzing graphs for accurate forecasts and calculated projections. As we all know, not all data on a graph is important. Successful consultants know how to analyze charts and graphs and identify  the information or data that is relevant, which enables them to quickly formulate a solution.

Think Outside the Box (Creative Thinking)

One of the main reasons that leading companies hire management consultants is because of their point of view. It’s difficult to spot internal problems within a large company when you’re part of its daily operations. Furthermore, some of the staff are so used to the structure and business functions that they are unable to pinpoint the weak spots. A successful consultant can walk into a company, analyze the facts and figures, identify the areas that need improved, and find a viable solution for implementation.

Many companies aren’t quick to admit that they rely on a management consultant’s expert advice or proposed solution. Before hiring a consultant, businesses have most likely tried everything to salvage or find an answer to their problems. A consultant must be creative enough to formulate a solution that the management or senior staff has not thought of.

Thinking outside the box doesn’t end with a feasible solution. A management consultant is also required to implement the new plan and put it into action. This entails creative thinking, as most companies are looking for fresh and new ideas that can help them stand out from their competitors and solidify their brand.

Drive and Motivation

It’s easy to spot successful management consultants. They talk a little differently, and move with confidence, without being too arrogant. Their work is always thorough and they know how to make the most out of seemingly hopeless situations. Lastly, they are always working towards a goal and are never satisfied with mediocre results.

How does a consultant achieve this mindset? The best consultants are truly made for the job. Preparation and hard work, amounting to valuable work experience, has set them apart from their colleagues. Motivation is essential in the consulting industry; many experts question their career when the pressure starts to build, but don’t throw in the towel.

In conclusion, perfecting the qualities of a highly successful consultant requires years of practice and preparation. The management consulting industry is rewarding to those who are willing to work hard and help others along the way.

Learn More

Want to learn more about the makings of a highly successful management consultant? Our guide to management consulting career provides an inside perspective on the skills top firms look for and how you can improve your capabilities and land a management consulting job.

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So, you’ve decided to pursue a management consulting career. You’ve successfully created and submitted an impressive resume, and your favorite suit is pressed and ready to go. Now all you need to do is ace that interview. But how? Consulting interviews are tough, and many aspiring consultants feel intimidated by the thought of interviewing at world-renowned consultancies, but if you prepare accordingly you’re sure to come out on top.

Here are some practical tips to help you prepare.

Before the Interview

Before you face the interviewer, you should do the following:

Research the Company

Do your homework and find out everything you need to learn about your prospective firm. Familiarize yourself with all relevant information before you go to the interview. Know who their clients are and research them, find out what problems they handle as well as their preferred methodologies, and visit their website and follow their social accounts in order to connect with people who are associated with them. This information will give you some helpful insights which you can use during the interview.

Prepare Questions

Yes, it’s important to know how to answer questions during the interview. However, at some point you’ll be asked if you have any concerns, which is your chance to ask insightful questions. Knowing how and what to ask will show your genuine interest in the job. You can ask about the interviewer’s experience with the firm or what it’s like to work as a consultant.

Evaluate Your Competencies

Assess your skills and reflect on how suitable you are for the job. Identify your weaknesses and focus on improving them in the weeks before the interview. You need to prove that you have the capability to perform the responsibilities of a consultant. Self-awareness is key to success; if you feel that you lack a few critical skills, work on honing them.

Learn the Consulting Frameworks

Memorize consulting frameworks. If you master the frameworks, you’re likely to arrive at a pragmatic solution to any given problem. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the large amount of data presented; you may be confused about where and how to start. Understanding business frameworks can definitely guide you in generating sound recommendations. Make sure to take the time to master and apply different frameworks to various cases

Read the Material Posted on the Recruiting Website

Top-tier consulting firms like McKinsey, BCG, Booz ,and Bain provide information for candidates on their websites about what they are looking for in an applicant. You can also take advantage of the review materials that they offer.

Follow Current Events in the Industry

You won’t demonstrate to recruiters that you have what it takes to be a consultant if you don’t stay on top of current events. Equip yourself with industry knowledge by reading news and magazine articles about the finance and politics sectors, both domestic and international. Also, and most importantly, keep yourself updated about the company that you’re interviewing with.

Network, Network, Network

Build strong relationships with industry professionals. Networking is a powerful tool that can help you effectively prepare for the interview. The experts among your contacts can definitely guide you on how to break into this industry. Courteously ask for their advice. If lucky enough, you might even have the chance to make friends with someone who’s worked there or is currently an employee in your target firm. Referral strategy has been proven to be a great way to land a job, so make an effort to grow your network of professionals. Join organizations and participate in LinkedIn and other networking sites.

Improve Your Mental Math

Consultants are expected to know how to make calculations and estimations; therefore you’ll be presented with a great deal of numerical data in your case interview. Thus, it’s imperative that you hone your mental math skills. Simulate the actual interview as you practice so you can gauge your speed and continue to improve.

Know How to Read Charts, Graphs, and Tables

To be a good consultant, you must be excellent at interpreting charts, graphs, and tables. Regardless of how the data is presented, you should be able to come up with accurate recommendations. This is crucial to acing your interview with top-tier consulting firms. Devote ample time to reading graphical charts or data spreadsheets so you can improve your data analysis.

Look for Case Interview Review Sessions

If you’re still in school, you can look for consulting clubs and career service centers that offer case practice sessions. Take advantage of these events—they will help you further prepare for the interview and may even provide some good review materials.

Practice with Someone

The best way to prepare for a consulting interview at a top-tier firm is to conduct a mock interview. Yes, it’s important that you study on your own first, but to test whether all your hard work is paying off, you need to conduct a mock interview with a qualified person. This is important to remember: Conduct mock interviews with people who have knowledge about the consulting industry. This will help you improve your ability to convey structured ideas as well as your ability to handle pressure. Take it seriously and simulate the interview conditions. Afterwards, ask for some valuable feedback that will help improve your performance.

Start as Early as You Can

The key to being prepared for the interview is to start early.  The earlier you prepare, the more cases you’ll be able to study. Take your time learning how to approach and solve different types of cases. Remember, procrastination is often the cause of one’s failure.

Prepare, Don’t Over Prepare

Indeed, you have to thoroughly prepare for your consulting interview. However, be careful not to over prepare. This requires some judgment on your part. Practicing is great but not to the extent that you’ll sound  rehearsed. You don’t want to demonstrate to your interviewer how good you are at memorizing a rehearsed speech. Top firms want to know how you think, so be careful not to make the script too obvious.

On the Day of the Interview

Here are some tips to remember on the day of the interview:

Dress Accordingly

To give your confidence an extra boost, you should wear standard professional business attire to your consulting interview. Be neutral and try to keep your fashion as simple as possible. Avoid wearing flashy ties or accessories. Based on CareerBuilder.com’s annual survey, 51% of hiring managers said that dressing inappropriately is the most common and damaging mistake a candidate can make during the interview. So in order to make a good first impression, you need to convey a polished and professional look.

Keep Your Poise

The interview process in top-tier consulting firms is very intense. You need to remain poised. Don’t let them upset you with abrupt or unfriendly behavior—keep a positive and professional attitude and smile! Remember, you’re not there to make friends; you’re there to impress them and get the job. Besides, they might be testing your ability to deal with nasty clients and co-workers.

Make Eye Contact

Be confident and maintain eye contact. According to an infographic titled, “What You Wish You’d Known Before Your Job Interview,” 67% of managers said that failure to make eye contact is a common nonverbal mistake applicants make during interviews. (The statistics were taken from a survey of 2,000 managers.)

Think and Listen

Many aspiring consultants fail to do this during the interview. Keep your focus so you won’t miss important hints or questions that are dropped during the discussion. One common issue among interviewees is writing too much. Don’t get too fixated on the details. Write down only a few words, not everything. Some words and phrases are there to confuse you. Remember, good consultants can easily spot the key facts. Listen and think carefully about the implications of the details presented.

Keep an Open Mind

Don’t sound defensive. If your interviewer seems to challenge your recommendation, acknowledge that what he or she said may be a relevant viewpoint that you haven’t considered. Good consultants know that there are many potential solutions to a single problem, so try to keep an open mind during your interview, and trust your instincts when presenting a persuasive proposal.

Ask Questions

After you’ve been provided with information about the case, be sure to ask intelligent questions. It’s best to start an engaging  dialogue. Consultants are expected to be engaging in team problem solving situations. Be inquisitive as curiosity is a persistent trait of successful consultants, and add some intelligent thoughts in order to generate hypothesis driven questions.

Take Time to Structure the Problem

Structure the problem using your own methodology. You can (and should!) use a consulting framework as a starting point, but no framework will fit your case problem to a tee. You may ask the interviewer for a minute to formulate your thoughts before you answer. As you think it through, try your best to systematically break the question down into digestible pieces. Make sure your structure is logical and each piece doesn’t overlap the other. Although what you learned in class or from a book may guide you, try to incorporate your own method of showcasing your problem solving prowess, and try your best to sound original.

Take a Stand

Toward the end of the discussion, be prepared to take a final stand. Yes, you might have been provided with limited data and time to tackle the underlying issues, but never hesitate to make a call. Consulting firms want to know how you’ll draw a sound recommendation based on the information you were given.

Preparation is a fundamental requirement to success, particularly in a very competitive industry like management consulting.

Learn More

For more helpful insights on how to craft a winning job application, download our free guide to consulting career and learn how you can outshine the competition!

References

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Booz & Company is one of the leading consulting firms in the world. They work closely with top businesses, governments, and organizations across several continents and have 57 offices around the globe. This established firm is also recognized as one of the most prestigious management consulting firms in the world by Consulting Magazine, and Time Magazine once dubbed the organization as “the world’s largest, most prestigious management consulting firm.”

With such an esteemed reputation and extensive expertise spanning a broad range of sectors, it’s not surprising that many aspiring consultants want to work at Booz. However, like in any top-tier firm, the application process is challenging and the competition is tough. As Booz is one of the highest regarded consultancies in the world, they only accept candidates who effectively demonstrate key skills and competencies.

Booz Interview Process

Booz & Company’s interview process is generally conducted in two rounds. Each round usually consists of two 45-minute interviews, each of which engages the candidate in a general introductory discussion as well as a case discussion, the later of which takes up the majority of the interview time.

The case discussion is nerve-racking for most aspiring consultants. You’ll be evaluated based on how you approach real-world business problems. This is where candidates’ business acumen and logical skills are put to the test. As an aspiring consultant, you should diligently prepare so you can structure your thoughts on any issue that may be presented. The cases given to applicants are frequently based on a real client engagement that the interviewer at Booz has worked on.

How to Effectively Prepare for a Case Interview

Increase your chances of acing your case interview by doing the following:

Master Consulting Frameworks

You’ll find these very helpful in structuring your answer.  Mastering consulting frameworks will guide you in finding the most suitable approach to any given situation and help you identify underlying issues and generate practical recommendations.

Hone Your Mental Math Skills

Case interviews generally contain a lot of graphs and numerical calculations. You will need to analyze large sets of numerical data, so it’s critical that you improve your mental math. Practice this skill and try to simulate the actual case interview so you can really gauge your speed in performing mental calculations.

Familiarize Yourself with Charts, Graphs, and Tables

If you are serious about pursuing a career in consulting, you should be able to read charts and tables and interpret data, regardless of how it’s presented. To reiterate, this is a critical skill of any management consultant as an erroneous interpretation will lead to the wrong conclusion, which can be costly to the firm and to your career. Devote ample time to enhancing this skill; make it a habit to read graphical charts or data spreadsheets in order to get used to analyzing such information.

Practice as Many Case Studies as You Can

The best preparation is of course to practice as many case scenarios as possible. This will help you hone your skills in developing defensible hypotheses and solutions.

Firms like Booz, Bain, and McKinsey offer practice interactive case studies as well as interview preparation tips—take advantage of these materials. There’s also plenty of case study practice guides available on the Internet. However, be picky; you don’t need to purchase every single study guide out there, simply choose about three reputable guides to help you with your interview preparation. The more exposure you have to various cases, the more prepared and competent you will be. Explore as many cases as you can as you never know what type of problem you’ll be presented with during the actual interview.

Start as Early as Possible

The earlier you start, the more cases you’re likely to crack. To be successful in this field, you need to develop a proactive review schedule. Don’t postpone your preparation; procrastination is often the cause of failure, and you don’t want to end up cramming the day before your interview.

Join Consulting Case Interview Review Sessions

Students can take advantage of campus consulting clubs and career service centers that organize case practice sessions. Visit your consulting club or career center and ask for some useful review materials.

Conduct Mock Interviews

Practice with someone. The best way to improve your critical thinking skills and ability to convey structured ideas is through mock interviews. Conduct simulated interviews with someone who can provide you with valuable feedback. Consider the following:

Tips during the Case Interview

To help you succeed in your Booz case interview, we have provided some valuable insights below:

Listen Carefully and Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions

Don’t be ashamed to clarify things that you don’t fully understand. Once the interviewer provides you with the case details, take some time to think and digest the case parameters. Next, summarize the case to the interviewer so you’re sure that you clearly understand the problem. Remember, some interviewers may not reveal all the necessary information unless you ask for it. If you feel you need to ask some questions to help you solve the case, go for it. Remember, the case interview assesses your questioning skills.

Structure the Problem

To guide you in your discussion with the interviewer, it’s recommended to briefly describe the framework you plan to use, then give the interviewer a chance to offer comments. It’s generally best to use the simpler frameworks. Once the interviewer approves your framework, stick to it. Work through the answer out loud so the interviewer can likewise assess your analytical structure and perhaps help you along.

Be Aware of the Time

Move through your framework at a pace that will allow you to tackle all the elements you mentioned at the start of the case discussion. Also, make sure you pause periodically during the discussion so as to give your interviewer a chance to make comments. If the interviewer provides you with advice, take it. Don’t be defensive and keep an open mind throughout the discussion.

Take a Stand

Be prepared to offer a recommendation toward the end of the case discussion. Although you may have been provided with little data and little time in which to discuss the underlying issues, don’t be afraid to make a call. That’s the essence of the exercise. You should be able to formulate your recommendation based on the information you were able to collect from your discussion.

Be Confident and Relax

It may seem difficult, but if you thoroughly prepared before the interview, you can definitely pull it off. The interviewer is not only evaluating your answer to the question, but also the manner in which you answer. Trust your instincts, but be careful not to be overly confident as you may be seen as an arrogant candidate.

Dress with Confidence

Ensure you’re dressed professionally. Dressing affects your attitude,  so wear something that will boost your confidence.

Maintain a Positive Energy

Booz and other top consulting firms want somebody who projects enthusiasm and has positive energy. Try to have some fun. Indeed it’s a very important interview and you should take it seriously, but don’t take the fun out of it. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer and keep a pleasant expression on your face throughout the entire process, just  don’t overdo it.

Remember that There Is No Single Right Way to Answer a Case

Don’t get too fixated on finding the correct answer. Good consultants always have more than one solution to any problem. As an aspiring consultant, you should know that there are many ways to craft a sound recommendation. The more important part of the case interview is how you demonstrate your thought process. If you are able to come to a logical and reasonable conclusion, then you have probably cracked the case.

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Writing your consulting resume? Not sure what to include to make it more impressive? Although you may be tempted to follow the common structure of international CVs, keep in mind that it is generally recommended to omit certain sections from a consulting application. Why? Because the most relevant details should be clearly conveyed in the achievements and skills section as resume screeners spend only a few minutes on each resume.

In fact, in 2012, a study was conducted which examined specific behaviors of recruiters as they screened applications, both paper and online, over a 10-week period. The research focused on what caught their attention and what was overlooked. The study’s eye-tracking technology revealed that recruiters spent almost 80% of their review time looking at just a few critical elements: the candidate’s name, current title and company, previous work and employer, and education. And they only spend around six seconds reviewing each element. “Beyond these data points, recruiters did little more than scan for keywords to match the open position, which amounted to a very cursory pattern-matching activity,” the researchers said.

So you see, every single part of your resume should serve your ultimate purpose, which is to impress the screener and land an interview. Incorporating details that add little to no additional value to your candidacy will only derail your success in the initial screening stage.

While some sections of a consulting resume are optional, the following sections are indispensable to crafting a winning consulting application:

Education

This section of your resume is critical. Resume screeners prefer to see details about postgraduate and college education first. Don’t forget to include your degree(s), university, grades, or GPA. Also, it is recommended to mention any major milestone such as achieving magna cum laude status and/or receiving awards for academic excellence and outstanding social involvement. You may also include relevant academic projects like your senior thesis and other notable research, which will serve to demonstrate your academic prowess.

Many firms place emphasis on standardized test scores (GMAT, LSAT, SAT, etc) as well, so if you have taken such tests it is wise to include your results. If you don’t think your score is impressive, you can compensate by providing a remarkable track record in the next section.

Work Experience / Accomplishments

Resume screeners are greatly impressed with a results-oriented track record. That’s why this section is undeniably an essential part of your application. This is your opportunity to provide a synopsis of your relevant work achievements and advertise yourself and what you can bring to the table. Thus, it’s suggested to mention your accomplishments in a detailed yet concise manner.

Although this section is for work experience, do not make the common mistake of simply mentioning the title, company, and responsibilities of your previous jobs. Consulting resume screeners want quantifiable achievements not job descriptions. Emphasize what you have achieved in each major role that went beyond your daily responsibilities. Firms are more interested in the impact you made in your previous positions, the positive changes brought about through your direct involvement. It’s not enough that you complete your daily tasks, you need to show that your work will generate profitable results for your target employer.

Use this section to demonstrate your unique skills and experiences that will help employers understand your strengths—lack of self-promotion will hurt your candidacy. Sell yourself loud and clear. Aside from your consulting cover letter, your resume is the only way you can make a positive impression and land the highly-anticipated interview. Yes, it’s great that you were a marketing manager for five years, but this information will not be enough to attract McKinsey, Bain, and BCG recruiters.

Highlight your most impressive achievements and back them up with quantifiable results. (You may exaggerate a little with regard to quantifying impact.) Although not every positive impact has to be quantified, be consistently focused on the impact of your work and don’t fixate on the particular steps you’ve taken. For instance, instead of saying, “Devised a marketing plan for ABC Company,” say: “Developed a marketing plan for ABC company, resulting in a 30% increase in revenue in two months.”

Also, it’s recommended that you use actionable words like “managed,” “developed,” etc. You can also include key phrases such as managed clients, managed teams, proposed and implemented, increased performance by, reduced costs by, and the likes. Remember, top firms are likely to be looking for similar attributes in your application.

Skills

In addition to the work experience section, you may also take advantage of this part of your application to demonstrate your suitability to daily consulting duties. But take note that the skills you list must be relevant and proven.

It’s important that you’re aware of precisely which skills consultants are looking for so that you can highlight them in your resume. Reviewers generally look for solid proof of skills in these key areas: analysis and problem-solving, quantitative, achieving, social and leadership, and communication.

Extracurricular

This section can add value to your application because firms are  interested in volunteer work or positions you’ve taken which demonstrate your leadership, initiative, and commitment. That’s why it’s recommended to include leadership positions, involvement in extracurricular activities, and any other significant participation in sports or societies. In general, you should only include information that will help your target firm understand your strengths.

References

Although this section may not be as critical as your work experience and skills, it could add great value to your application. If you have credible business references and former or current consultancy clients, it could push your application forward. These references will provide your target firm with first-hand information that will strongly support the information you provided.

In order to further improve the sections listed above, follow these valuable tips:

Reference

• What Recruiters Look For in a 6-Second Resume Scan

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