I am currently working as a software engineer in test. I would like to switch into consulting roles. However I am unsure if this is the right thing to do considering once I move from tech, it will be difficult for me to get back into tech roles.
Doubtful about switching careers
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Hi there,
I think this is an interesting question that may be relevant for many people. I would be happy to share my thoughts on it:
- Making a career change can be a difficult decision, and it's completely understandable that you're feeling uncertain about making the switch from software engineering to consulting. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:
- Assess your goals: What are your long-term career aspirations? Are you looking for more growth opportunities, a change in industry, or a different role with more responsibility? It's important to remember that it depends on your career goals and what you want to achieve in your professional life.
- Research the field: Learn as much as you can about consulting roles, the industry, and the specific companies you're applying to. Speak to people in the industry, attend networking events, and read up on the latest trends.
- Consider the skills you have: Many of the skills you've developed as a software engineer in test, such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication, are transferable to consulting roles.
- Evaluate the risks: It's true that switching industries can make it more difficult to return to your previous field, but it's not impossible. Be prepared to explain why you're making the switch and how your skills and experience can be applied in a consulting role. It's important to note that it's probably as hard to go from tech to consulting as the other way around again. You should not worry that career changes would be one-way streets.
- Have a backup plan: While you may be excited about the prospect of a consulting role, it's always wise to have a backup plan in case things don't work out.
- Ultimately, the decision is up to you, and it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Remember, you can always explore consulting roles while still keeping your options open in tech.
- It may be also beneficial to try a consulting role as a project or part time, before making a full switch. This way you can test the waters and see if the consulting role is a good fit for you and your career aspirations.
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
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Hi there,
It's normal to have this sort of uncertainty.
I don't necessarily agree with your thinking, however. Consulting is one of the most flexible types of industries and the great thing about is that it opens you options rather than narrowing them in. I don't share your concern on this one.
It rather sounds like you need to do some soul-searching first in order to understand WHY you want to become a consultant. I'd suggest you also consider talking with an expert coach to get a better understanding of the job, as well as to assess whether it would be a good fit for you.
Let me also share with you here two articles that would be super relevant for you in terms of understanding how the industry works:
Best,
Cristian
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Hi there,
There are two perspectives on this:
- Do you want to work in consulting and leverage the future impact it might have on your career? Only you can answer this for yourself.
- Do you have the profile for top consulting firms? This can only be answered by current and former consultants of the firms you want to apply with.
For both perspectives, it will help you if you start networking and talking to consultants as you can learn more about their life/work and they can give you an unbiased evaluation of your profile.
All the best,
Florian
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Hi there,
Q: I would like to switch to consulting roles. However I am unsure if this is the right thing to do considering once I move from tech, it will be difficult for me to get back into tech roles.
The answer depends on your goal. Where do you want to be in 5-10 years? Ideally try to identify the company that can help you to achieve that goal faster.
Additionally, even if you can save time with the consulting path, I would not use it as the sole criterion. Consulting is quite different from tech and even if it allows you to speed up your way to the top I would not go for it if you don’t think you would enjoy the work and environment there.
Best,
Francesco
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Hi there,
Why do you want to switch into consulting? Is it so you can get better roles in tech later on? If so, what's the alternative career path that's more direct since you're already in tech?
Can't really give you any advice if we don't know what you care about and what your aspirations are. Sure, consulting sounds sexy but is it for you? Impossible to say without knowing your thinking.
Let us know and I can provide a more refined answer.
Best,
Moritz
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Hi there,
You need to network, network, network.
Only from talking to people will you see what makes most sense for you.
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Moving into tech won't be an issue, quite the opposite, as long as it is a business role. Only moving into a technical role in tech will be an issue.
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