Hey all, I am wondering how do consultants at tier 2 firms get staffed on projects? Is it mainly throught networking with Partners or with the talent managers?
Also, if I am stationed at a small office; how would it impact my ability to get staffed on good projects?
Thank you!
Hi there,
So, am answering two parts of your question:
Adi
Hello!
Yes, usually the place where you are determines the engagements you end up doing.
For instance, if you are in an area where major O&G projects happen, there are high chances that the local office is very specialized into that. Then, you would have a big CST (Client Service Team) there, and it´s a vicious (or virtuous) circle.
Hope it helps.
Best,
Clara
Hi Anonymous,
Typically the office location influences the type of projects, based on the "specializations" of that office. It's not binary, but the odds are much higher for a certain project that your office has specific expertise.
Staffing process is in reality based on your project track record and the relationships you built inside the firm based on that. If you are an excellent consultant, the same partner will most likely want you on his team for another project as well - as simple as that. On top of that, there is also the "official" staffing process .. which of course won't overrule partner preferences unless you have a different wish and it's realistic for the firm to use you productively on another engagement (e.g. if you want to explore a different industry..).
Hope this helps - if so, please give it a thumbs-up with the upvote button below!
Robert
Hi there,
A few general rules:
1) Technically you have a staffing manager, but if you want to be successful you need to internally network and get yourself staffed on the good projects (i.e. if partners, principals, etc. like you then they'll ask for you)
2) Of course location matters. Projects and clients in Dubai are going to be fundamentally different from those in Sydney, who are going to be fundamentally different from those in Houston.
This would depend on the operating model of the firm you're applying to. Do they have a P&L around practices or offices? Ar they in a segment of the market in which expenses are passed on to the client? Do they prefer local staffing to allow you to build closer relationships with their colleagues or global staffing?
The only way to know is to ask both HR, and current employees/alums.
Hi Henning, it is a global P&L.
(editiert)
Hello,
Yes, location does matter on the scale, type and complexity of projects you will be staffed on. The big 4 consulting firms aren't as agile in staffing projects with interstate or international resources unless that is the last available option or if there is a specific skillset that is required.
Don't be detered by small office locations. It has its own set of benefits such as direct access to Partner, generally working on smaller and shorter engagements i.e. more diversity of experience. As you grow in your career, of course even in smaller locations you need to be able to demonstrate revenue growth.
