How to become a management consultant

Pursuing a career in management consulting unlocks the door to a dynamic, intellectually stimulating and potentially high-reward professional life. Think of management consultants as architects of business success. They design the blueprints that help businesses overcome obstacles, improve performances and grow in the long run.

The profession offers a rich blend of challenges and rewards, making it an ideal fit for those who thrive in different work environments, have a knack for problem-solving, and are passionate about driving business strategies. If you’re someone who gets a kick out of solving complex puzzles and enjoys the multifaceted nature of business, becoming a management consultant may be your perfect cup of tea.

What is a management consultant?

At its core, management consulting is all about helping organisations improve their performance. This is achieved by analysing existing organisational issues and developing plans for improvement. Management consultants may work in broad areas, such as strategic planning and corporate strategy. They may also specialise in specific industries, such as finance, technology or healthcare.

Management consulting is a broad field, offering flexibility in terms of working arrangements. Consultants can operate as full-time employees within firms, work independently, or offer their expertise on a contract basis. They often have a background or degree related to business consulting.

What does a management consultant do?

A management consultant can wear many hats in the business landscape. However, their expertise tends to fall on three main areas of focus:

Business expertise

Management consultants offer their expertise to businesses across various domains, from business strategy and risk management to digital transformation and talent management.

Research and analysis

Consultants perform in-depth analyses and research related to their areas of focus within an organisation. They remain objective to provide a clear perspective on the problems that businesses face.

Project supervision and management

Consultants play a hands-on role in implementing the solutions they identify, working with teams to deliver and monitor these solutions while liaising directly with senior management.

Here’s a snapshot of the various duties management consultants perform:

• Aid in developing objectives, strategies, and plans aimed at ensuring customer satisfaction and efficient use of resources.
• Identify and discuss business and organisational shortcomings with clients and develop practical solutions.
• Perform in-depth analyses of current systems and structures. They then propose revisions to methods and procedures, alter workflows, and redefine job functions.
• Study company data, policies, and financials to build a comprehensive understanding of the business.
• Assist in implementing approved recommendations, and issue revised instructions, procedure manuals, and drafting other relevant documentation.
• Review operating procedures and advise of departures from procedures and standards.

Perks of becoming a management consultant

The benefits of a career in management consulting are plentiful. Beyond the intellectual challenges and the opportunity to make a significant impact, management consultants often earn an above-average income. According to Indeed, the average salary for a management consultant as of 2022 is around $97,117* per year. This figure can be higher based on the consultant’s level of experience, the firm’s size, and other factors.

Moreover, management consultants often have opportunities for extensive travel, work with diverse clients across various industries, and enjoy a rapid career progression.

What Makes a Good Management Consultant?

Certain qualities and skills can set an exceptional management consultant apart:

Analytical Skills

Good management consultants are adept at dissecting complicated business scenarios, interpreting vast volumes of data, and making insightful correlations. These capabilities enable them to offer sound, evidence-based recommendations and help drive significant improvements in business performance.

Interpersonal and communication skills

Management consultants not only interpret data but also communicate their findings effectively to their team, stakeholders, and clients. This requires a delicate balance of technical acumen and interpersonal savvy.

Problem-solving skills

Management consultants are often hired to resolve specific challenges a company or organisation is facing. So being able to quickly grasp complex situations, identify core issues and come up with innovative solutions is crucial. Their expertise lies in transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth and improvement.

Teamwork and collaboration

A good management consultant is not a lone wolf. Successful consultants know how to pool collective skills and knowledge by working closely with their team, clients, and other stakeholders.  The ability to encourage and foster a cooperative work environment is vital in delivering successful outcomes and effective solutions.

How to become a management consultant

Success in this field will depend on you meeting the following management consulting requirements:

A solid academic background

To become a management consultant, you would usually require at least a bachelor’s degree. Degrees in business, commerce, economics, or a related field are often preferred. However, the competitive nature of the field means a higher degree, like a Master’s or an MBA, offers added advantages.

Real-world experience

Practical experience is a crucial component in the path to becoming a management consultant. This can be obtained through internships, part-time roles, or full-time work in a business-related sector during or after graduation. Hands-on experience in a practical business environment gives you the ability to translate academic theories into actionable strategies. It also offers insight into the challenges businesses face in real time.

Professional certifications

Adding management consultant certifications to your profile can greatly enhance your attractiveness in the management consulting sector. The following management consulting courses will not only boost your knowledge but also validate your expertise:

• Certified Management Consultant (CMC)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Manager (CM)
• Talent Optimisation Consultant Certification

These certifications can set you apart from the competition and highlight your commitment to providing the highest standard of consulting services.

Protect your business

Management consultants work closely with their clients. Meeting with clients in person and providing tailored advice are big parts of the job. They also create risks that could potentially lead to expensive claims or lawsuits.

Many management consultants use business insurance to help them manage these and other risks. Insurance helps you protect your bottom line. Instead of paying legal fees, compensation to clients, and other unplanned expenses from your own pocket, your insurance policies help foot the bill.

Policies that are often considered by management consultants include:

Professional Indemnity – Covers you for losses claimed by a third party & defence costs due to alleged or actual negligence in your professional services or advice. This includes defence costs cover.

Public Liability – Covers you if a third party claims that your negligent business activities caused them injury or property damage. This includes defence costs cover.

Cyber Liability – Covers losses from claims arising from data breaches, business interruption and remediation costs following an actual or threatened data breach.

Business Insurance – Covers your business contents, stock, tools and commercial premises when an insured event occurs (such as fire, storm, theft or even accidental damage).

In some cases, a client may require you to have certain types of insurance to work with them. They may include this requirement in their business contracts and ask for a certificate of currency to ensure your policy is active.

Stay curious

Becoming a management consultant means embracing the mindset of lifelong learning. The business world is constantly evolving, with new methodologies, technologies, and best practices emerging regularly. As a consultant, you have to keep up with the pace.

Stay informed about industry trends and developments by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences. Reading relevant materials and participating in professional groups and online forums can also contribute to your ongoing education and ensure you are up to date with the most current knowledge and strategies.

Get peace of mind as you soar to new career heights

Choosing to become a management consultant is a rewarding career path filled with challenges, intellectual stimulation, and immense potential for growth. This profession allows you to utilise your talents and skills to support businesses in overcoming their challenges and reaching their full potential. In essence, you become a catalyst for progress and innovation in the world of business.

As you prepare for this exciting journey, it’s important to consider the risks associated with the profession. BizCover works with top-tier insurance providers in Australia to offer a variety of management consultant insurance options. With our no-fuss, no-drama approach, we make finding the right coverage straightforward and hassle-free.

So as you climb the ladder of success, rest easy knowing BizCover has your back.