8 answers
1
Question
Asked
3888 views
How do I break out in management consulting?
Whenever I try to find information about consulting online, it's usually in reference to tax/audit consulting specifically, which isn't what I'm hoping to do. Instead, I want to do management consulting. While I have plenty of experiences in leadership outside of the working world, I've rarely had an opportunity to manage others in my career so far. Do I need a few years of management experience coming out to school to really be a viable consultant? Or would potential internship experience and my education be enough for me to start at an entry-level at a consulting firm?
Login to comment
8 answers
Updated
Ashrit’s Answer
Hi Parker. You don't need formal management experience to get into management consulting. Companies like McKinsey, BCG, and Bain hire right after college if you have strong problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and leadership potential. Leadership experience outside of work can also be valuable if you can show impact. To position yourself well, try to get a relevant internship in consulting, strategy, finance, or business analysis. Network with current consultants and practice case interviews, as they are a big part of the hiring process. Focus on building a strong resume, connecting with industry professionals, and practicing case studies. This will put you in a good position to secure an entry-level role.
Steward "Tony" Pacheco
Minister, USMC Vet, John C. Maxwell Cert. Coach, Trainer, Speaker, Teacher, Straight Shooter
144
Answers
Updated
Steward "Tony"’s Answer
Hi Parker!
In The Real World, If You Have No Experience Then It Will Be Difficult To Sell Yourself As A Management Consultant. here are some tips because we all shared the same experiences early in our careers.
Your potential internship experience and education will open doors at an entry level salaried position, but many consultants work on a 1099 basis under their own legal structure i.e. Corp, LLC, etc, so selling your skills will have to be practiced & deliberate.
You stated Real World Experience but also mentioned "potential" internship. Where is this real-world experience from?
You must ask yourself the questions, that a potential client would ask you before they put a contract before you to sign.
Any leadership and/or training certificates would help you market yourself to the world, also any of the management methodologies used in business circles would add value to what you bring to the table, not forgetting IT or IS certifications on the latest and greatest technologies.
These will cost some capital, but what you invest will never be wasted because you now have skin in the game.
Know what fields you want to focus on, what industries you are drawn to, and what training fees are typically charged clients. "Consultant" is just a word to describe your 1099 business model, SME (Subject Matter Expert) is what clients actually pay for. Certified Leadership Coaches, Trainers & Teachers are also a way to become trained in a particular methodology as well as how consultants genrate leads and nuture relationships (important).
Angie & I are Certified John C. Maxwell, but I already had 30-years of SME, Training, Speaking & Management experience in F-100. Early in my journey, I trained on everything I got my hands on and strove to become the "Go To" when there were questions, where ever I laid my hat. I started Consulting Part Time, but never in the field to which I was employed (conflict of interest)
I am not trying to impress you, just impress upon you that you can sell yourself with leadership, business, and motivation training online via the multitude of resources on the net. Just keep Moving Forward & Even If You Fall (which we all do at times) You Must Fall Forward. Those falls are much more valuable to you than what you sat in a classroom for.
Do not forget to volunteer your services as well, as that will generate leads from those people you helped. Many pay it forward adding value to your reputation & value as a trusted consulting business.
May God Open Your Path With Blessings & Success.
Steward Tony Pacheco
The "River of Success" Leadership Team
"Take the River of Success to an Ocean of Opportunity!"
In The Real World, If You Have No Experience Then It Will Be Difficult To Sell Yourself As A Management Consultant. here are some tips because we all shared the same experiences early in our careers.
Your potential internship experience and education will open doors at an entry level salaried position, but many consultants work on a 1099 basis under their own legal structure i.e. Corp, LLC, etc, so selling your skills will have to be practiced & deliberate.
You stated Real World Experience but also mentioned "potential" internship. Where is this real-world experience from?
You must ask yourself the questions, that a potential client would ask you before they put a contract before you to sign.
Any leadership and/or training certificates would help you market yourself to the world, also any of the management methodologies used in business circles would add value to what you bring to the table, not forgetting IT or IS certifications on the latest and greatest technologies.
These will cost some capital, but what you invest will never be wasted because you now have skin in the game.
Know what fields you want to focus on, what industries you are drawn to, and what training fees are typically charged clients. "Consultant" is just a word to describe your 1099 business model, SME (Subject Matter Expert) is what clients actually pay for. Certified Leadership Coaches, Trainers & Teachers are also a way to become trained in a particular methodology as well as how consultants genrate leads and nuture relationships (important).
Angie & I are Certified John C. Maxwell, but I already had 30-years of SME, Training, Speaking & Management experience in F-100. Early in my journey, I trained on everything I got my hands on and strove to become the "Go To" when there were questions, where ever I laid my hat. I started Consulting Part Time, but never in the field to which I was employed (conflict of interest)
I am not trying to impress you, just impress upon you that you can sell yourself with leadership, business, and motivation training online via the multitude of resources on the net. Just keep Moving Forward & Even If You Fall (which we all do at times) You Must Fall Forward. Those falls are much more valuable to you than what you sat in a classroom for.
Do not forget to volunteer your services as well, as that will generate leads from those people you helped. Many pay it forward adding value to your reputation & value as a trusted consulting business.
May God Open Your Path With Blessings & Success.
Steward Tony Pacheco
The "River of Success" Leadership Team
"Take the River of Success to an Ocean of Opportunity!"
Updated
Eric Scott’s Answer
It's great that you're exploring the world of consulting, and it's completely normal to come across a lot of information about tax and audit consulting online. These are important areas, but management consulting is unique and has its own set of expectations for newcomers.
To answer your question: No, you don't need several years of formal management experience to be a strong candidate for an entry-level management consulting position right out of school.
Here's a closer look at what management consulting firms seek in entry-level candidates:
* **What Management Consulting Firms Look For:**
* **Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:** You'll need to tackle complex business issues and create data-driven solutions. Being able to think critically and analyze information is key.
* **Excellent Communication Skills:** You'll share your findings and suggestions with clients, so it's important to present information clearly and concisely.
* **Business Acumen and Intellectual Curiosity:** Understanding business basics and having a keen interest in learning about various industries is highly valued.
* **Leadership Potential:** While formal management experience isn't necessary, showing leadership in any setting (like clubs, volunteer work, or other activities) is a big plus. It shows your ability to lead, influence, and achieve results.
* **Teamwork and Collaboration:** Working well with others is crucial since consulting projects often involve team efforts.
* **Adaptability and Resilience:** Consulting can be demanding, and you’ll need to quickly adapt to new situations and challenges.
* **How Education and Internships Fit In:**
* **Education:** A strong academic background, especially in business, economics, engineering, or other quantitative fields, is often required. Advanced degrees like an MBA can also be a big advantage.
* **Internship Experience:** Internships are incredibly valuable. They give you firsthand industry exposure, help you develop relevant skills, and show your commitment to consulting. Internships in related fields like finance or strategy can also be beneficial.
* **Your Leadership Experience Outside of Work:** Highlight your leadership experiences on your resume and in interviews. Be ready to explain how these experiences have helped you develop skills relevant to consulting, such as:
* Setting and achieving goals.
* Motivating and influencing others.
* Making decisions under pressure.
* Solving problems creatively.
* Taking initiative.
In summary, while formal management experience can help, it's not typically required for entry-level roles in management consulting. Firms focus on your foundational skills, growth potential, and relevant experiences like internships and leadership roles in other areas of your life.
Your next steps could include:
* Excelling in your education and engaging in relevant extracurricular activities.
* Pursuing management consulting internships for direct experience.
* Highlighting your leadership experiences by quantifying achievements and linking them to necessary consulting skills.
* Networking with current consultants to gain industry insights.
* Developing your case interview skills, a crucial part of the recruitment process.
By concentrating on these areas, you can definitely become a strong candidate for entry-level management consulting roles without prior formal management experience. You've got this!
To answer your question: No, you don't need several years of formal management experience to be a strong candidate for an entry-level management consulting position right out of school.
Here's a closer look at what management consulting firms seek in entry-level candidates:
* **What Management Consulting Firms Look For:**
* **Strong Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:** You'll need to tackle complex business issues and create data-driven solutions. Being able to think critically and analyze information is key.
* **Excellent Communication Skills:** You'll share your findings and suggestions with clients, so it's important to present information clearly and concisely.
* **Business Acumen and Intellectual Curiosity:** Understanding business basics and having a keen interest in learning about various industries is highly valued.
* **Leadership Potential:** While formal management experience isn't necessary, showing leadership in any setting (like clubs, volunteer work, or other activities) is a big plus. It shows your ability to lead, influence, and achieve results.
* **Teamwork and Collaboration:** Working well with others is crucial since consulting projects often involve team efforts.
* **Adaptability and Resilience:** Consulting can be demanding, and you’ll need to quickly adapt to new situations and challenges.
* **How Education and Internships Fit In:**
* **Education:** A strong academic background, especially in business, economics, engineering, or other quantitative fields, is often required. Advanced degrees like an MBA can also be a big advantage.
* **Internship Experience:** Internships are incredibly valuable. They give you firsthand industry exposure, help you develop relevant skills, and show your commitment to consulting. Internships in related fields like finance or strategy can also be beneficial.
* **Your Leadership Experience Outside of Work:** Highlight your leadership experiences on your resume and in interviews. Be ready to explain how these experiences have helped you develop skills relevant to consulting, such as:
* Setting and achieving goals.
* Motivating and influencing others.
* Making decisions under pressure.
* Solving problems creatively.
* Taking initiative.
In summary, while formal management experience can help, it's not typically required for entry-level roles in management consulting. Firms focus on your foundational skills, growth potential, and relevant experiences like internships and leadership roles in other areas of your life.
Your next steps could include:
* Excelling in your education and engaging in relevant extracurricular activities.
* Pursuing management consulting internships for direct experience.
* Highlighting your leadership experiences by quantifying achievements and linking them to necessary consulting skills.
* Networking with current consultants to gain industry insights.
* Developing your case interview skills, a crucial part of the recruitment process.
By concentrating on these areas, you can definitely become a strong candidate for entry-level management consulting roles without prior formal management experience. You've got this!
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Parker,
First of all I’d love to dig a little deeper before diving into advice: What specific type of management consulting are you most interested in? For example:
Strategy Consulting: Helping companies define their long-term goals and competitive positioning (e.g., McKinsey, BCG, Bain).
Operations Consulting: Improving efficiency, supply chain management, or process optimization.
Human Resources/Organizational Consulting: Focusing on workforce strategy, culture, and change management.
IT/Technology Consulting: Bridging business needs with technology solutions (though this often overlaps with tech roles).
Industry-Specific Consulting: Specializing in sectors like construction, healthcare, finance, or retail.
Knowing the area you’re drawn to will help tailor your approach because different types of consulting firms value different experiences and skill sets. That said, let’s address your concerns and outline steps to position yourself for success.
First of all I’d love to dig a little deeper before diving into advice: What specific type of management consulting are you most interested in? For example:
Strategy Consulting: Helping companies define their long-term goals and competitive positioning (e.g., McKinsey, BCG, Bain).
Operations Consulting: Improving efficiency, supply chain management, or process optimization.
Human Resources/Organizational Consulting: Focusing on workforce strategy, culture, and change management.
IT/Technology Consulting: Bridging business needs with technology solutions (though this often overlaps with tech roles).
Industry-Specific Consulting: Specializing in sectors like construction, healthcare, finance, or retail.
Knowing the area you’re drawn to will help tailor your approach because different types of consulting firms value different experiences and skill sets. That said, let’s address your concerns and outline steps to position yourself for success.
Updated
Jody’s Answer
Hello Parker,
From my experience, a consultant is a problem solver for clients who hire somebody else to do what they cannot do themselves. Rather than hire a full-time person and pay the administrative costs for that person they will pay a consultant for temporary hire. My first consulting position went great for 2 years until the client called me into a meeting one Monday morning and said - you cannot charge your work time to our projects starting today. When I called my boss who hired me his honest response was - I do not know what I will do with you now. That is what we call the kiss of death in the consulting world. I had to find another client willing to hire me and I did.
Consulting is a wide-open field and requires you to think on your feet and go above and beyond the call of duty as required to keep a paying client happy. Most entry-level jobs are posted on-line at the company's website in their careers section. I recommend you do multiple searches for the company entry-level positions that you think you may want to work for and then cut and paste their entry-level job descriptions into a personal library of entry-level jobs and compare them to see how you can mold your resume to fit their needs and also get great ideas on how to mold your resume.
I mentored a young international engineer who said he could not find anybody to hire him, and he was working as a manager for a retail company. I advised him to take the Engineer in Training Exam and get his E.I.T. certificate. He got his E.I.T. certificate and got his first engineering job. Now 3 years later he has his professional engineering license and also does consulting work with his own company as a side job to his full-time job.
I recommend you attend a local toastmaster's club meeting and see if you want to sharpen your communication skills https://www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club . Toastmasters changed my life for a cost of approximately $10/ month and I lost my fear of public speaking through their self-help communication training program . As a consultant you will need good communication skills to develop successful networks and teams. Toastmasters is a great non-profit organization and a great way to meet a wide variety of successful people who have the same goals as you and will help you become a better communicator. They normally meet one hour a week, and you can come and go as you please to work at your own pace. I recommend you develop an elevator pitch and introduction for your future interviews (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwuk7vq8Yfo) The PERFECT Elevator Pitch .
Parker, I have no doubt that you will find your path to success, and I recommend you do work as an internship and YES, that will give you a great start and valuable experience. Once you start an internship, I recommend you start your own professional library which is very valuable to a consultant. When I worked as a consultant to NASA, they had a virtual library and I downloaded multiple building codes, electrical codes, mechanical codes, and built my own library which I still use to this day. I also joined Research Gate on-line (https://www.researchgate.net/) which gave me access to loads of scientific papers I use as support documents in my professional work. I recommend you find the on-line libraries which give free access to students and build your own library as needed to use for your career growth.
What you make of every job is very valuable experience for your future and I had a Sr. Engineer give me very valuable advice on my first job – he advised me – Never Stop Growing and always keep learning your whole career.
I have no doubt you will be successful Parker !
From my experience, a consultant is a problem solver for clients who hire somebody else to do what they cannot do themselves. Rather than hire a full-time person and pay the administrative costs for that person they will pay a consultant for temporary hire. My first consulting position went great for 2 years until the client called me into a meeting one Monday morning and said - you cannot charge your work time to our projects starting today. When I called my boss who hired me his honest response was - I do not know what I will do with you now. That is what we call the kiss of death in the consulting world. I had to find another client willing to hire me and I did.
Consulting is a wide-open field and requires you to think on your feet and go above and beyond the call of duty as required to keep a paying client happy. Most entry-level jobs are posted on-line at the company's website in their careers section. I recommend you do multiple searches for the company entry-level positions that you think you may want to work for and then cut and paste their entry-level job descriptions into a personal library of entry-level jobs and compare them to see how you can mold your resume to fit their needs and also get great ideas on how to mold your resume.
I mentored a young international engineer who said he could not find anybody to hire him, and he was working as a manager for a retail company. I advised him to take the Engineer in Training Exam and get his E.I.T. certificate. He got his E.I.T. certificate and got his first engineering job. Now 3 years later he has his professional engineering license and also does consulting work with his own company as a side job to his full-time job.
I recommend you attend a local toastmaster's club meeting and see if you want to sharpen your communication skills https://www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club . Toastmasters changed my life for a cost of approximately $10/ month and I lost my fear of public speaking through their self-help communication training program . As a consultant you will need good communication skills to develop successful networks and teams. Toastmasters is a great non-profit organization and a great way to meet a wide variety of successful people who have the same goals as you and will help you become a better communicator. They normally meet one hour a week, and you can come and go as you please to work at your own pace. I recommend you develop an elevator pitch and introduction for your future interviews (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwuk7vq8Yfo) The PERFECT Elevator Pitch .
Parker, I have no doubt that you will find your path to success, and I recommend you do work as an internship and YES, that will give you a great start and valuable experience. Once you start an internship, I recommend you start your own professional library which is very valuable to a consultant. When I worked as a consultant to NASA, they had a virtual library and I downloaded multiple building codes, electrical codes, mechanical codes, and built my own library which I still use to this day. I also joined Research Gate on-line (https://www.researchgate.net/) which gave me access to loads of scientific papers I use as support documents in my professional work. I recommend you find the on-line libraries which give free access to students and build your own library as needed to use for your career growth.
What you make of every job is very valuable experience for your future and I had a Sr. Engineer give me very valuable advice on my first job – he advised me – Never Stop Growing and always keep learning your whole career.
I have no doubt you will be successful Parker !
Updated
David’s Answer
Hello Parker,
You don’t necessarily need prior management experience to break into management consulting, especially if you're targeting entry-level roles at firms like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, or other consulting firms. These companies typically hire new graduates as analysts or associates, focusing more on problem-solving ability, analytical skills, and leadership potential rather than direct management experience.
Since you have leadership experience outside of work, you can highlight that on your resume and during interviews. Consulting firms value structured thinking, communication, and the ability to work with teams, so any experience showcasing those skills is beneficial.
To improve your chances:
Internships – Getting consulting-related internship experience will give you an edge.
Case Interviews – Learn how to tackle case interviews, as they are a key part of the hiring process.
Networking – Reach out to consultants through LinkedIn or alumni connections to learn more and get referrals.
Certifications or Courses – If you want to stand out, consider taking courses in business strategy, financial modeling, or data analytics.
Join Consulting Clubs or Competitions – Many universities have consulting clubs or case competitions that mimic real consulting work.
If you can demonstrate problem-solving ability, business acumen, and strong communication skills, you can land an entry-level role without direct management experience.
You don’t necessarily need prior management experience to break into management consulting, especially if you're targeting entry-level roles at firms like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, or other consulting firms. These companies typically hire new graduates as analysts or associates, focusing more on problem-solving ability, analytical skills, and leadership potential rather than direct management experience.
Since you have leadership experience outside of work, you can highlight that on your resume and during interviews. Consulting firms value structured thinking, communication, and the ability to work with teams, so any experience showcasing those skills is beneficial.
To improve your chances:
Internships – Getting consulting-related internship experience will give you an edge.
Case Interviews – Learn how to tackle case interviews, as they are a key part of the hiring process.
Networking – Reach out to consultants through LinkedIn or alumni connections to learn more and get referrals.
Certifications or Courses – If you want to stand out, consider taking courses in business strategy, financial modeling, or data analytics.
Join Consulting Clubs or Competitions – Many universities have consulting clubs or case competitions that mimic real consulting work.
If you can demonstrate problem-solving ability, business acumen, and strong communication skills, you can land an entry-level role without direct management experience.
Updated
Wade’s Answer
Generally speaking, real world experience in the field you hope to consult in is the first step. Being able to consume existing solutions and apply those to consulting opportunities is the core. I would recommend interning at a large company in your desired field of expertise. You will see how large scale solutions are developed and applied.
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Hi Parker,
You can kickstart your career in this field by leveraging your education and relevant experiences, including those outside traditional work settings. Highlight your educational achievements and internships, as many firms welcome graduates from diverse backgrounds. Emphasize your leadership experiences, both in and out of work, to showcase your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and leadership potential. Networking and informational interviews with industry professionals can offer valuable insights and open doors to job opportunities. I advise reviewing the career websites of consulting firms to thoroughly understand the job descriptions and requirements for entry-level roles. Prepare thoroughly for case interviews, a common assessment method in the industry, and review job descriptions on consulting firms' career websites to understand the skills and qualifications required for entry-level roles. Try focusing on these strategies, so you can stand out for a role in management consulting!
You can kickstart your career in this field by leveraging your education and relevant experiences, including those outside traditional work settings. Highlight your educational achievements and internships, as many firms welcome graduates from diverse backgrounds. Emphasize your leadership experiences, both in and out of work, to showcase your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and leadership potential. Networking and informational interviews with industry professionals can offer valuable insights and open doors to job opportunities. I advise reviewing the career websites of consulting firms to thoroughly understand the job descriptions and requirements for entry-level roles. Prepare thoroughly for case interviews, a common assessment method in the industry, and review job descriptions on consulting firms' career websites to understand the skills and qualifications required for entry-level roles. Try focusing on these strategies, so you can stand out for a role in management consulting!