Seeking advice: passed probation but underperform at current role

Question

Hi all, I’m having a difficult time and would like to seek advice from the community on how to overturn my situation:

I‘ve joined a boutique consulting firm as consultant (experienced hire) after several years at corporate and MBA. I have switched both geography location and industry (right now I’m working on sectors unrelated to my previous experience).

Although I have passed the probation as partners have seen my progression, the feedback is that I’m still not progressing fast enough to have the technical skills to perform at my current ranking. I’m stressed about being downgraded or even “kicked out” of the firm. Although nothing have happened yet, appraisal cycle is around the corner and quite possibly I’ll be rated underperform in several dimensions (mainly technical skills).

Previous improvement points, generally speaking is problem solving and commercial sense. On my current project I’ve also received feedback such as not being ‘relevant’ enough to key client questions (such as interview questions), and have also had a few times producing slides that are not what the engagement manager wanted. I also couldn’t find much points to leverage from my past experience as I have done a dual jump (geography + industry).

Seeking some general tips or experience sharing on how to overcome this difficult situation and ramp up key consulting toolkit. Any aspect would be useful, such as skill building, upward management, etc. Appreciate your advice!

Answer 1

Hi there,

I am so sorry to hear that you've been struggling recently. I know it can be super stressful. Here are some tips and advice that may help:

Seek specific feedback (regularly): Ask your managers for specific feedback on your performance and areas for improvement. Understanding where you need to improve will help you focus on the right areas. What are the specific skills you are lucking in? Which interaction with the client was flawed? etc.
Set clear goals: Identify specific goals and areas for improvement, and work with your managers to create a plan to achieve those goals. This will help you focus your efforts and measure progress over time.
Network: Take advantage of opportunities to network with your colleagues and senior leaders in the company. This can help you learn more about the company and industry, and also help you build relationships with people who can support your career development.
Skill building (!!!!): Consider taking courses or training programs to build your technical skills and knowledge in areas where you need improvement. This could include areas such as problem-solving, commercial sense, and communication skills.
Upward management: Develop a strong relationship with your managers and other leaders in the company by being proactive, responsive, and demonstrating a positive attitude. Keep them informed of your progress and ask for feedback regularly.
Seek out mentors: Find mentors within the company who can provide guidance and support as you work to improve your performance and progress within the company.

(*) Additional note/comment/recommendation: It's important to remember that consulting, like any other industry, isn't for everyone. If you don't feel fulfilled or enjoy your work and don't feel like you're growing personally and professionally, then it may not be the right fit for you. Don't be afraid to explore other options.

Best of luck!

Best,

Victoria

Answer 2

Hi there,

#1 Tip GET A COACH

You are earning an income so you can afford one.

What you can't afford is losing your job during an economic downturn and hiring slowdown because you tried to self-learn something that has to be taught/trained by someone else. “Tips” aren't what you need. A dedicated coach, trainer, mentor is what you need.

Think of the ROI here…

You are experiencing slow development in problem solving and commercial sense and presentations/content. This is a lot!

Please don't panic…you can 100% improve! But, if you really want to, make the investment in yourself.

Here are my general tips (but hard to truly teach this via writing):

Find a mentor at the firm
Lean on your fellow consultants
Work on “side” lessons through LinkedIn or the company's internal learning platform
Communicate openly with your manager and an open and honest conversation with your manager about how you can improve
Seek feedback regularly from your manager and colleagues, and use it to improve your performance
Read this Q&A
Read this article

Please, get a coach.

Answer 3

Hi there,

First of all, I am sorry to hear about your situation!

I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:

Since your weak spots do not appear to be technical in nature, I would highly advise you to reach out to a coach. While transitioning to a new geography and industry can be challenging, it seems that you are struggling to utilize the skills from your previous work experience (assuming that there are skills to be utilized).
Moreover, I would advise you to be open about your weak spots, reach out to your career advisor/ manager/ training manager, and discuss how you can improve upon them. Most strategy consulting companies offer a variety of training and coaching opportunities to enhance different skills.

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

Best,

Hagen

Answer 4

Most likely you are executing the tasks given, but not thinking about how you would independently solve the problem…

This always results in sub-standard work. Any analyst must know how to recognize whenever their research/analysis will not produce the desired outcome and conceive an alternative analysis (or ask for help / flag to the manager / etc.).

In consulting you ALWAYS start with the goal in mind. You are always “answer first”. If the analysis / slide / research is not contributing to the answer… you need to find an alternative.

When doing a slide you always start with the key message first. Then you build a slide with they key information / analysis supporting that point.

Usually takes 6-12 months for a new consultant to fully understand what this means and to become “second nature” to them.

Let me know if this resonates with you / this aligns with the feedback you're getting, or if you believe otherwise that it is something else.