One of the longest running jokes in the industry revolves around what consultants do. Plenty of memes on social media mock the work consultants do, often focusing on the vagueness of the role.
In reality, consultants perform a wide range of tasks throughout their career, and these tasks can be summarized into the following main two categories:
Project work
Project work, especially earlier in a consultant’s career comprises the majority of the work. It involves everything performed for the client either remotely or onsite. In practice it consists of two things:
Data and facts analysis
Analyzing the clients data and building reports, and presentations based on that data. Also included are analyzing the documentation and other market research of the client.
Stakeholder sessions and presentations
Meeting client stakeholders for the project, often from different departments of the business. Giving presentations of findings and analysis of the data. Soliciting feedback for changes to deliverables.
Business development
Seeking new work for the firm is a important function of a consultant, and often becomes a more significant part of the role as one moves up the ladder. Business development can happen in two ways:
Proactive business development
Seeking new project opportunities at an existing client or pitching to potential new clients. Finding opportunities to highlight new emerging challenges for the client.
RFP responses
Responding to request for proposals from clients or potential clients whom ask consulting firms on how they would approach a particular challenge their organization is facing. RFPs often have very tight deadlines to deliver a response.
While there are many other activities consultants perform, these two main areas are there regardless of consulting firm practice area. Being familiar with them before hand can help you decide whether consulting is the right career for you.
About PrepareConsult:
PrepareConsult is a platform to practice the consulting case interview with AI and peers. PrepareConsult is founded by Milad Mohammadi and Sahhas Nathella.
Milad Mohammadi – 7+ years of experience in consulting and professional services with experience across North America and Europe.
Sahhas Nathella – 5+ years of experience in consulting and professional services with strong experience in complex digital transformations.
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