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How would you suggest I approach finding a job in an Economic Consultancy I have a BSc in Economics from the University of York (UK) but I’ve been a practising artist/writer for the last 5 years.
I did work experience at Frontier Economics, but that was a while ago. Help! ?
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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hi there, Samra!
It's great to see you're interested in pursuing a career in an economic consultancy firm, especially with your unique background in economics and your experience as an artist/writer. Here are some friendly tips to boost your job hunt:
1. Showcase your versatile skills: Your artistic/writing background likely gave you excellent communication, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. These are all great assets in an economic consultancy role. Make sure to highlight these skills in your resume and cover letter, and be ready to illustrate how they can be beneficial in an economic consultancy context.
2. Use your Frontier Economics experience: Your previous stint at Frontier Economics is a huge plus. Make sure to emphasize the skills and insights you acquired there. Even if it's been a while, it still shows your passion and familiarity with the field.
3. Network and ask for referrals: Networking is crucial in any job hunt, and it's even more so in the economic consultancy sector. Connect with your fellow University of York alumni and any professional contacts you made at Frontier Economics. See if they know about any job vacancies or if they can recommend you.
4. Personalize your application: For every job you apply for, tweak your resume and cover letter to highlight the specific skills and qualifications mentioned in the job ad. This shows the employer that you've done your homework and that you have the right experience and skills to meet their needs.
5. Think about further courses or certifications: Depending on the job you're aiming for, you might need to brush up on certain skills or areas of knowledge. Consider taking extra courses or getting certifications to boost your skills and make you a stronger candidate.
As for some reading material to guide you, here are three books that might be useful:
1. "The Art of Economic Analysis" by David F. Hendry and Neil R. Ericsson - This book gives you a rundown of the tools and techniques used in economic analysis, which could help you understand what skills and knowledge are appreciated in the field.
2. "Economics for Business" by James C. W. Ahiakpor and John M. S. Mitchell - This book introduces the principles of economics and their application to business decisions. It could help you understand the economic concepts and theories that an economic consultancy firm would find relevant.
3. "Consulting 101: The Essential Guide to Consulting Skills and Knowledge" by James W. Newman - This book provides a snapshot of the consulting industry and the skills and knowledge needed to thrive as a consultant. It could help you understand what skills and knowledge are appreciated in the field and how to develop them.
I hope these tips prove useful in your job hunt! Best of luck to you.
Even better Divine Intervention to You!
It's great to see you're interested in pursuing a career in an economic consultancy firm, especially with your unique background in economics and your experience as an artist/writer. Here are some friendly tips to boost your job hunt:
1. Showcase your versatile skills: Your artistic/writing background likely gave you excellent communication, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. These are all great assets in an economic consultancy role. Make sure to highlight these skills in your resume and cover letter, and be ready to illustrate how they can be beneficial in an economic consultancy context.
2. Use your Frontier Economics experience: Your previous stint at Frontier Economics is a huge plus. Make sure to emphasize the skills and insights you acquired there. Even if it's been a while, it still shows your passion and familiarity with the field.
3. Network and ask for referrals: Networking is crucial in any job hunt, and it's even more so in the economic consultancy sector. Connect with your fellow University of York alumni and any professional contacts you made at Frontier Economics. See if they know about any job vacancies or if they can recommend you.
4. Personalize your application: For every job you apply for, tweak your resume and cover letter to highlight the specific skills and qualifications mentioned in the job ad. This shows the employer that you've done your homework and that you have the right experience and skills to meet their needs.
5. Think about further courses or certifications: Depending on the job you're aiming for, you might need to brush up on certain skills or areas of knowledge. Consider taking extra courses or getting certifications to boost your skills and make you a stronger candidate.
As for some reading material to guide you, here are three books that might be useful:
1. "The Art of Economic Analysis" by David F. Hendry and Neil R. Ericsson - This book gives you a rundown of the tools and techniques used in economic analysis, which could help you understand what skills and knowledge are appreciated in the field.
2. "Economics for Business" by James C. W. Ahiakpor and John M. S. Mitchell - This book introduces the principles of economics and their application to business decisions. It could help you understand the economic concepts and theories that an economic consultancy firm would find relevant.
3. "Consulting 101: The Essential Guide to Consulting Skills and Knowledge" by James W. Newman - This book provides a snapshot of the consulting industry and the skills and knowledge needed to thrive as a consultant. It could help you understand what skills and knowledge are appreciated in the field and how to develop them.
I hope these tips prove useful in your job hunt! Best of luck to you.
Even better Divine Intervention to You!
Wow! Thank you so much! This is extremely helpful! Wish me luck!
Samra
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
Hello Samra. You have already gotten some great advice. Here is my input:
Take 20-30 minutes and write down the skills you need to be an economic consultant. Or you can even search the web for a list.
Next, on a separate sheet of paper/document write down the skills you used as an artist.
Now put them side by side and see where there is crossover. Look for skills in the art profession that apply to the economic consultant. For example, an artist has to lay out colors, objects, etc to make her point. An economic consultant has to take different variables and lay them out in a way that makes her point. Pictures, ie graphs, charts, etc.
So take some time to think about how your artist skills translate into economic consultant skills.
Take 20-30 minutes and write down the skills you need to be an economic consultant. Or you can even search the web for a list.
Next, on a separate sheet of paper/document write down the skills you used as an artist.
Now put them side by side and see where there is crossover. Look for skills in the art profession that apply to the economic consultant. For example, an artist has to lay out colors, objects, etc to make her point. An economic consultant has to take different variables and lay them out in a way that makes her point. Pictures, ie graphs, charts, etc.
So take some time to think about how your artist skills translate into economic consultant skills.
Melanie thank you for this thoughtful suggestion!
Samra
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Hi Samra,
Getting into consulting can be a rewarding and challenging endeavor that requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and networking. It seems like you have a great base to leverage as you move into the industry! Below are a few steps, in order, that might be helpful as you work a consulting career:
Develop Essential Skills:
- Hone analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Improve communication and teamwork abilities.
- Gain proficiency in relevant software tools, such as Excel and PowerPoint.
- Gain Practical Experience:
Networking:
- Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars to connect with professionals.
- Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to build a professional network.
- Seek informational interviews with consultants to gain insights into the industry.
Prepare Application Materials:
- Craft a compelling resume highlighting your skills, experiences, and achievements.
- Write a tailored cover letter expressing your interest in consulting and the specific firm you're applying to.
Demonstrate Adaptability and Passion:
- Showcase your willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
- Convey your passion for solving complex problems and making a positive impact.
Continuous Learning:
- Stay updated with industry trends, consulting methodologies, and business news.
- Pursue additional certifications or courses related to consulting to enhance your skills.
Interview Performance:
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews, both behavioral and case interviews.
- Practice mock interviews with peers or mentors to refine your responses and presentation.
You are on the right path and focusing on the topics above will help you achieve your goals!
Getting into consulting can be a rewarding and challenging endeavor that requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and networking. It seems like you have a great base to leverage as you move into the industry! Below are a few steps, in order, that might be helpful as you work a consulting career:
Develop Essential Skills:
- Hone analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Improve communication and teamwork abilities.
- Gain proficiency in relevant software tools, such as Excel and PowerPoint.
- Gain Practical Experience:
Networking:
- Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars to connect with professionals.
- Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to build a professional network.
- Seek informational interviews with consultants to gain insights into the industry.
Prepare Application Materials:
- Craft a compelling resume highlighting your skills, experiences, and achievements.
- Write a tailored cover letter expressing your interest in consulting and the specific firm you're applying to.
Demonstrate Adaptability and Passion:
- Showcase your willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
- Convey your passion for solving complex problems and making a positive impact.
Continuous Learning:
- Stay updated with industry trends, consulting methodologies, and business news.
- Pursue additional certifications or courses related to consulting to enhance your skills.
Interview Performance:
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews, both behavioral and case interviews.
- Practice mock interviews with peers or mentors to refine your responses and presentation.
You are on the right path and focusing on the topics above will help you achieve your goals!
Thank you Joe for this incredibly thorough response!
Samra
Updated
Anca’s Answer
Hello Samra,
Thrilled to know you're eager to be part of an economic consultancy firm. You've already received some fantastic guidance, yet I'm here to offer my perspective too.
Your BSc in Economics paired with your experience in arts could be a unique combination that sets you apart from other applicants. Dare to think creatively. Remember, economic consultancy firms aim to guide clients towards optimal decisions. Your arts background could be the key to a profound understanding of customer behavior, extraordinary communication, and presentation skills, among other things.
Consider exploring various approaches while crafting your CV and job application, this could potentially make you the standout candidate they're looking for.
Believe in yourself, and you'll achieve remarkable things!
Best of luck.
Thrilled to know you're eager to be part of an economic consultancy firm. You've already received some fantastic guidance, yet I'm here to offer my perspective too.
Your BSc in Economics paired with your experience in arts could be a unique combination that sets you apart from other applicants. Dare to think creatively. Remember, economic consultancy firms aim to guide clients towards optimal decisions. Your arts background could be the key to a profound understanding of customer behavior, extraordinary communication, and presentation skills, among other things.
Consider exploring various approaches while crafting your CV and job application, this could potentially make you the standout candidate they're looking for.
Believe in yourself, and you'll achieve remarkable things!
Best of luck.
Thank you for this advice Anca!!
Samra
Updated
John’s Answer
I highly recommend getting acquainted with Data Science skills. Not only are they beneficial for economics, but they're also a great asset to possess in general.
Check out this link for some top-notch, free Data Science courses, along with free tech too: https://bit.ly/IBMAcademicInnovation
Check out this link for some top-notch, free Data Science courses, along with free tech too: https://bit.ly/IBMAcademicInnovation