AI -Entry level Strategy Consulting role

Hello, 

Great question — for an entry-level strategy consulting role, having a solid business understanding of AI (not technical expertise) can really set you apart, especially as AI becomes core to client strategies.

Focus on:

1. AI Basics – Know the fundamentals: machine learning, neural networks, generative AI (like ChatGPT), and key terms like supervised learning.
2. Business Use Cases – Understand how AI is used across industries (e.g., automation, personalization, predictive analytics).
3. AI Strategy & Ethics – Learn how companies think about implementing AI, and the risks (e.g., bias, governance, explainability).
4. Current Trends – Stay up to date on major AI developments and how consulting firms are helping clients adapt.

• Allows you to contribute to tech-driven strategy projects
• Enables smart conversations with clients and technical teams
• Makes you valuable on cross-functional engagements from day one

Some resources you could use:

• Courses:
  • AI for Everyone – Andrew Ng (Coursera)
  • Elements of AI – Free, beginner-friendly
  • Generative AI – DeepLearning.AI (Coursera)
• Insights:
  • McKinsey’s State of AI reports
  • BCG, Bain, Deloitte articles on AI in business
  • HBR and MIT Tech Review for ongoing trends

You don’t need to code — just be fluent in how AI creates business value. That’s what clients and partners are looking for.

Let me know if you need any further advice.

Best,

Evelina

hey there :)

for an entry-level strategy role, I would focus on how AI creates business value, not just the tech itself. understand basics like generative AI, use cases across industries, data strategy, and AI-driven efficiency or personalization. key is to speak about AI in a strategic, not technical, way. good free resources: Harvard Business Review on AI, McKinsey’s AI Insights, and Google’s AI for Everyone course. keep it business-focused!

best, Alessa 😊

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• Contrary to what other coaches have said, I would strongly advise against overdoing preparations for AI tools for one simple reason: most major consulting firms have their own tools. While most of these tools are based on OpenAI's solutions, a solid understanding of ChatGPT should suffice to become proficient in a relatively short time. And please keep in mind that you will also receive an introduction to these tools during the onboarding process.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

Hi there,

Most consulting firms are building their own proprietary AI frameworks and tools — so don’t stress about mastering a specific platform right now.

What matters is being comfortable using generative AI tools (for search, deep search, presentation building, synthesis, etc.) and developing strong prompting skills. That means knowing how to ask the right questions, guide the AI, and iterate fast.

Once you join a firm, they’ll train you on their internal tools and methodology. Your job is to be AI-fluent enough to adapt quickly.

Best,

Alberto

Hi there,

I would do two things

1. Self-educate with ChatGPT and the like

2. Have a few chats with people working in the industry and the role that you're targeting and try and get a sense from them of the extent of knowledge that you'd be required to have.

Best,
Cristian