“Consultant” is one of the most searched job terms and it’s easy to understand why. There are many different kinds of consultants out there and if you’re new to the industry, it can be tricky to determine which type is most relevant to your career goals.
To help you figure it out, we’ve provided a basic definition of Consulting and a breakdown of the industry’s most popular specializations.
So, what is a consultant?
Simply put, Consultants use their expertise and knowledge to help businesses achieve goals and solve problems. Because they work outside of the organization, they provide an objective point of view that can help organizations find trouble spots that they might not be able to see on their own. While there are specialized Consultants working in all industries, a Consulting job typically refers to a position at a Consulting firm that specializes in the areas of Strategy, Management, and Information Technology (IT).
Strategy Consulting
Strategy Consultants are primarily concerned with helping companies increase their profit margins and market share so they can be as successful as possible. For example, they might address what a client might be able to do in order to set themselves apart from their competitors.
Entry-level employees in this area typically work as Consulting Analysts. This role focuses on collecting and analyzing data and presenting the findings to management and client leaders. As you advance, you will get more opportunity to direct strategy and interact with senior management.
Management Consulting
This area of Consulting focuses on offering companies advice in regards to managing and operating their business. Management Consultants support their clients on concepts like operational techniques and time management skills – in short, their interactions will depend on the needs of the organization.
Entry-level Management Analysts and Associates collaborate with project teams to pinpoint challenges and develop solutions for their firm’s clients. They also perform rigorous research and quantitative analyses to help inform their recommendations.
IT Consulting
These types of Consultants help organizations find the best ways to utilize technology in order to achieve their business objectives or overcome challenges. They work to improve the structure and overall efficiency of their clients’ IT systems.
An entry-level IT Consulting Analyst works with clients to analyze technological performance issues and recommend creative solutions. They might also assist more senior Consultants and partners with their assignments.