There are several reasons someone might opt for a career in consulting - from increased work flexibility to desiring a position with more responsibility.
For those interested in what a consulting job might look like, keep reading - we'll let you in on the benefits and potential career progression of a consultant.
What Is A Consultant?
Essentially, someone with the title of consultant will help businesses and clients by using their expertise in a specific field to stay ahead of the competition. Often a consultant is more knowledgeable in specific areas compared to the clients.
An important distinction to make is that a consultant works independently with clients and businesses. There are no ties to the client's business that prevent any conflicts of interest in important decision-making.
Benefits Of Working As A Consultant
Working as a consultant is appealing to many for a number of reasons. To name a few, it comes with unique benefits, like being able to work on multiple projects in a short period of time. Consultants may be hired for a job for a client or company that lasts a few months then move onto something completely different.
You have more flexibility in the hours you work and get to work with team members towards shared goals. Below, we have compiled a list of the main benefits of working as a consultant.
Work with diverse clients
One of the main reasons people are attracted to a line of work in consultancy is the ability to work on different projects. You might spend a few months working with a client or company, then a week later, you are in a completely different client's office.
Consultants get to experience working on a project in one industry then a completely different one on the next project. This allows you to develop your skills in multiple fields within a short time period.
Lots of career opportunities
Many people that decide to undertake consulting work find that promotions come along a lot quicker than usual. Because there is an abundance of businesses and clients looking for guidance from expertise, finding work is not so hard.
Take on responsibility early
Often a consultant is brought on board to offer guidance using their experience and knowledge. Sometimes this involves helping a new business get off the ground or an assist a company in getting back on its feet.
Because consultants are often specialists in their field of work, they have a lot more power and responsibility when brought into companies.
Good salaries
Salaries for consultants can vary greatly; however, on average, it is considered very good. For consultants that find success regularly, they may find themselves being promoted at an accelerated rate. Top consultants at leading consulting firms can have extremely high salaries.
Experience a team environment
Consultants get brought into a company where they will work with colleagues towards shared goals. Together, they work on strategies to improve their business and use their specific skills to find success.
Because consultants spend a lot of time working with others, networking between teams and companies is common. This allows you to build a name for yourself for future opportunities.
Learn about other businesses and industries
Another reason many choose a consulting career is the ability to learn about other industries. Consultants get to experience a huge range of industries. Whilst working on a project, if you find that you are particularly interested in that field of work, you can focus on that specific area in the future.
Working in different sectors also allows you to stay up to date with the latest technologies and trends. This allows you to stay ahead of the curve and have a deeper understanding of what makes many companies successful today.
Good work-life balance
One of the main things people struggle with these days is finding a good work-life balance. A career in consulting allows you to be much more flexible in the type of work you do and how much work you undertake.
The job of consultants can be intense. However, because of your flexibility, you can schedule the type of life that is best suited to you.
What Is A Typical Consulting Career Path?
Typically, there are around six roles of consultancy from business analyst all the way up to partner. As you move up the ladder, you gain more responsibility, from delivering presentations to making sure projects are on track.
When you reach the position of a partner, you will focus more on networking with different clients and selling projects.
Looking at starting your own consultancy firm - read our tips on how to start your very own HR consultancy company.
FAQs
Should I work at a consulting firm?
Yes. If you are keen on a career in consulting, then joining a consulting firm a great place to start. They already have the structure in place for you to start climbing up the ranks. In addition to this, consulting firms often are well established in the industry.
This means that there will be a lot of opportunities to branch out and network into areas or sectors that interest you specifically.
What soft skills will I need as a consultant?
As a consultant, you will spend a lot of time talking to people, exchanging thoughts and opinions. To do this effectively, you will need a number of soft skills.
Some of the most important attributes include good communication and social skills, a good attitude, and common sense.
Do consultants make a lot of money?
Consultants can make a lot of money. As you climb up the consultancy ladder, you have more opportunities to sell your service to clients.
Successful consultants can build impressive reputations within industries that allow them to charge a substantial fee for their expertise.
Is being a consultant a good career?
This really depends on what you define a good career. Consulting offers a great opportunity to work with lots of different people from a wide variety of backgrounds. You have increased responsibility and get to experience working on many different projects.
Of course, some drawbacks include the potential of having to work long hours and the added pressure of people relying on your decision-making. The key is to weigh up the pros and cons and see if this career path is for you.