How to specialise as a new generalist

Question

Hi all,

I'm starting a job as a generalist associate consultant but have my eye on a couple of industries that I would like to focus on as much as possible.

Any tips for making this more likely, please?

Thanks!

Answer 1

The best is to get on projects in that industry and work your way from there. You can also support proposals/RFP responses to gain additional exposure.

Answer 2

Hey there,

If you are interested in working for a specific practice or function do the following:

Get yourself on the relevant newsletters and staffing lists
Write to the respective staffing coordinators for those areas, highlighting your interest
Network with EMs and partners in that area
Attend relevant events if possible
Actively ask to work on research opportunities and proposals in that area

You want to get your name out there early and while it might not work out instantly, within six months of actively pursuing these steps, you should be staffed on your first project in a certain area.

From then on, keep networking and if you perform well, word of mouth will do the rest. Most staffing is done through networking and not official staffing channels.

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 3

Hey there ,

You become a specialist by working on projects specific to the industry. Staffing is driven centrally however typically partners and principals are able to pull resources . I would recommend you to network with partners /principals in the industry of your choice and express interest to work on projects with them along with showcasing why you are interested and what you bring to the table

Answer 4

Hi there,

Basically you need to network and yourself involved!

Join the clubs/groups for those industries. Talk to people in those industries (as Friday events etc). Let staffing know you're interested in those projects. Reach out to people in those industries.

Answer 5

The best way to do this is to first think of what you want to specialize in (pick 2-3 industries or areas) and then reach out to partners that work in these fields. Request to help out on LOPs and projects and get on their radar.

Once you have expressed interest and you regularly follow up with them, they will be more inclined to staff you. Everyone wants to staff people that are interested in the kind of work they are doing.

The other thing that will help a lot is having a good reputation/rating on your current projects. People will reach out to get a sense of how good you are.

Answer 6

Hello!

The only way is to get staffed asap with those CST and start building relationships. Once you start this, it´s gonna be like a growing snowball. Actually, the issue normally is how to get out once you got in, since then you get kind of “chained”.

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 7

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