How to Be a STAR Intern and Secure Your Full Time Consulting Offer

Congratulations on landing a summer internship at one of the top consulting firms. That's a huge achievement—well done! 🥳

Starting an internship in consulting is an amazing chance to learn, grow, and showcase your skills. For many, it's an important step towards landing a coveted full-time offer in a highly competitive industry. Here are some facts that highlight how beneficial an internship can be:

• ​​On average, 40-60% of annual graduate hiring happens through summer internships.
• On average, 50-70% of summer interns are offered full time roles.
• The recruiting process for direct full time roles is much tougher.

If you're interning in consulting, it's crucial to work hard and make the most of the experience. Your goal should be to earn a full-time job offer by the end of your internship, so let's find out how you can do that!

10 Tips to Stand Out During Your Consulting Internship

Whether you’re a fresh graduate or someone looking to pivot into consulting, the following top 10 tips will guide you on how to excel as an intern and position yourself for a full-time consulting role.
Let’s see how you can turn your internship into a great start for your consulting career.

Tip #1: Demonstrate a ‘Can Do’ Attitude.

Your team knows that you are an intern with (most of the time) no consulting experience, so no one is expecting you to carry the project on your shoulder, but what really matters is you showing the ‘can do’ attitude.

🤔 How would you do that?

Proactively seek work:

Don’t wait around for work to come to you. Consultants and managers are busy and might forget to assign tasks. If you’re not busy or have completed your work, go ahead and ask for more. Show that you’re eager to learn and help out.

Take ownership and showcase independence:

Consultants love interns who can take the task and run with it as independently as possible. I know you will need support, hand holding at various junctures but think about how you can optimize those incidences.

• While taking the task, understand the big picture, your role, expected outcome and the support available.
• Schedule periodic feedback/support calls with seniors to avoid constant interruptions.
• Before reaching out for help, ask yourself if you have given your best and if you have a ‘solution oriented’ conversation planned.

Show a positive attitude:

Consulting can be stressful, so a positive attitude goes a long way. Avoid dwelling on what’s not working and focus on bringing energy and enthusiasm to every task. Be the intern who smiles, helps others, and accepts feedback with a positive mindset.

Tip #2: Grasp the Big Picture, Set Right Expectations & Create Support.

Grasp the big picture.

• Attend project/workstream kick-off meetings. In case you are joining it midway, ask your manager for a project briefing.
• When you receive a task, clarify with the project manager the broader impact of your tasks and how they align with client objectives.
• Summarize and share insights from meetings and documents with the team, demonstrating and verifying your grasp of the project's big picture

Set right expectations.

• At the start of the internship, meet with your manager to discuss your skills and how they can be best utilized.
• For every task – confirm the scope, deliverables, and deadlines.
• Provide regular updates to your manager. If you are facing any challenges, raise it immediately.

Create support.

• Inform yourself about official support available e.g. coaching time that managers or other seniors can give every week, graphics team support to make slides, expert calls to understand complex concepts etc.
• Arrange informal meetings with team members from different functions to understand their roles. See if you can help them in small tasks and seek their support.
• Be in touch with other interns – share best practices and issues.
  

Tip #3: 5 Must Read Things (Homework) Before Starting on the Consulting Project

Before you start your consulting project, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the following key resources. These will help you understand the context and ensure you are well-prepared:

1. Project Proposal: An overview of the project's scope, goals, plan, and deliverables.

💡 How It helps: The project proposal helps you see the big picture of the project and understand where your task fits in, including any dependencies and deadlines.

2. Client’s Latest Quarterly and Annual Reports: Insights into the client’s financial health and strategic priorities.

💡 Why It helps: The client's latest quarterly and annual reports provide a snapshot of the client’s current situation and highlight key areas of focus, giving you valuable context for your project.

3. Industry Primers: Overview of trends, challenges, and the competitive landscape of the industry in which the client operates.

💡 Why It helps: Industry primers offer a solid understanding of the industry and help you align your work with current trends and challenges.

4. Functional Primers: Key concepts, frameworks, best practices and firm’s point of view in specific function viz. Strategy, Operations etc.

💡 Why It helps: Functional primers provide a quick way to grasp functional knowledge and serve as a handy reference for understanding the firm’s expertise and viewpoints in that area.

5. Team Member Profiles on LinkedIn and the firm intranet: Backgrounds and expertise of your project team.

💡 Why It Helps: Knowing about the backgrounds and profiles of your team members help you understand and leverage each team member’s strengths, and speed up rapport-building and collaboration.

Tip #4: 30 Must-know Excel and PowerPoint Features

Almost 50% of your internship time you will spend in front of an Excel or PowerPoint screen. Trust me! You do not have an option but to have a good familiarity with these applications.

Excel proficiency is a lifesaver, believe me! If you are good with Excel, you can save a lot of night outs. Seriously, I am telling you from experience. Here are 15 Excel skills you should definitely know:

About PowerPoint: Understand this, PowerPoint is the preferred way of communicating in consulting especially, when the communication is formal such as project updates, proposal discussions, final report submissions etc.

PowerPoint enables visual storytelling. It helps consultants engage clients better because it helps clients visualize data, understand the high level story without having to go deep in data excels. That is why you will see a consultant using PowerPoint all the time.

Given the importance attached to PowerPoint, every consultant has to be familiar with how it works, especially the functionalities of the ppt that will be used by them frequently.

You should know the following 15 functionalities of PowerPoint:

Tip #5: Pass the 'Airport' Test.

During the internship, no doubt it's crucial to demonstrate analytical and technical skills. However, it is equally if not more important to be someone your colleagues enjoy being around.

✈️ The "airport test" is a concept used in consulting and other industries to gauge if someone is likable and engaging enough that colleagues would enjoy spending time with them, even in an unexpected situation like being stuck at an airport.

Here are a few tips to help you pass the airport test and effectively build rapport with your team:

1. Be Approachable and Friendly: Start the day with a warm smile and a cheerful "Good morning!" This makes you seem more welcoming and easy to approach. Engage in small talk by asking about things like someone's weekend to show genuine interest.

2. Engage in Small Talk: Keep conversations lively by staying updated on current events or sharing your own hobbies. Mentioning something fun you did recently can encourage others to open up and make interactions more engaging.

3. Show Genuine Interest: Listen actively and remember personal details about your colleagues. If someone talks about their child’s soccer game, ask how it went next time you chat. This demonstrates that you care and helps build stronger connections.

4. Balance Professionalism and Fun: Focus on delivering your best work and participating in meetings during office hours. At the same time, be open to joining team activities like after-work events or lunches. It’s important to show that you’re both dedicated and enjoyable to work with.

By following these tips, you’ll not only be seen as a competent professional, but also as a likable and engaging colleague, multiplying your chances of securing a full-time offer at the firm.

Tip #6: Know Your ‘Evaluation’ Criteria

As an intern at a top consulting firm, it’s crucial to know what you’ll be evaluated on. Understanding these criteria helps you focus on what matters most and ensures you can demonstrate your skills effectively. Being clear on what’s expected allows you to align your efforts with the firm’s standards and show your potential.

Key Evaluation Criteria and Parameters at Top Consulting Firms’ Internships:

1. Problem-Solving

• Analytical Thinking: Demonstrating the ability to break down complex problems into manageable parts and identify effective solutions.
• Decision-Making: Making informed decisions based on data and thorough analysis, while considering potential risks and outcomes.

2. Managing Work

• Time Management: Prioritizing tasks efficiently and meeting deadlines without compromising quality.
• Resourcefulness: Utilizing available resources effectively and finding ways to overcome obstacles.

3. Communication

• Clarity and Conciseness: Conveying ideas clearly and succinctly, whether in writing or verbally.
• Active Listening: Engaging with colleagues and clients, understanding their needs, and responding appropriately.

4. Teamwork

• Collaboration: Working effectively with team members, sharing knowledge, and supporting collective goals.
• Adaptability: Being flexible in response to team needs and changes, and contributing to the team's success.

Internship projects are short and fast-paced. Regular self-assessment, combined with feedback from your team, will significantly enhance your skills and ensure a successful internship. This practice not only helps you identify areas for improvement but also accelerates your personal and professional growth.

Tip #7: 5 Steps to Perfect an 'Every Draft, FINAL Draft' Habit

During the internship, you want to project yourself as a high quality professional. Inculcate the mindset of ‘every draft, final draft’.

This mindset ensures your work is polished, professional, and reliable from the start, minimizing the need for revisions and building trust with your team. It showcases your commitment to excellence and establishes a high standard for your contributions.

5 Steps to a "Final Draft" Mindset

1. Clarify What Is Expected: Before you begin, make sure you understand the goals, requirements, and audience for your work. This clarity helps you stay focused and ensures your work meets expectations.
2. Bounce Off Your Approach Before Deep Diving: Discuss your initial ideas and approach with a mentor or project colleague before diving deep into the work. This can provide valuable insights and help refine your direction early on.
3. Thoroughly Self-Review the Output: Conduct a meticulous review of your draft. Check for accuracy, coherence, and completeness, and make sure every detail is as it should be.
4. Get Project Mate Feedback Before Submitting It to the Manager: Share your draft with a team member for feedback. Their perspective can highlight areas you might have overlooked and suggest improvements.
5. Reflect on Feedback and Iterate Quickly: After receiving feedback, reflect on it and make necessary changes promptly. This iterative process ensures your draft evolves into a polished, final-quality document quickly.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that each draft is ready to be the final version, demonstrating your dedication to high-quality work and fostering a reputation for reliability and excellence. This approach will put you in a great position to impress the consulting team and secure a full-time offer.

Tip #8: Leverage 'Feedback Culture' to Your Advantage.

Consulting firms are known for their strong feedback culture, which helps everyone keep growing and improving. As an intern, using this feedback well can really boost your skills, make sure you're meeting the firm's expectations, and improve your chances of landing a full-time job.

Here are five tips to help you make the most of the feedback opportunities during your internship:

1. Set Up Weekly/Fortnightly Feedback Time with Your Manager.

Initiate regular feedback sessions with your manager to discuss your performance, areas for improvement, and progress towards your goals. Setting up these sessions shows your commitment to learning and your proactive approach to self-improvement.

2. Be Open to Receiving ‘On the Spot’ Feedback.

Consulting is fast-paced, and sometimes feedback comes at the moment. Be receptive to immediate feedback, whether it’s during a meeting, after a presentation, or following a client interaction. This openness demonstrates your adaptability and willingness to grow.

3. Take Feedback Constructively Without Being Defensive.

Receiving feedback can sometimes be challenging, especially if it highlights areas where you need to improve. Approach all feedback with a constructive mindset, focusing on how it can help you grow rather than viewing it as criticism. Avoid defensiveness and instead, thank the person for their insights.

4. Communicate Your Improvement Plan.

After receiving feedback, communicate your plan for improvement to your manager or the person who provided the feedback. This proactive approach shows that you are serious about your development and committed to making positive changes.

5. Work on the Feedback and Showcase Improvement.

Act on the feedback you receive by tracking your progress and showing improvements in your work. Share your successes with your manager to highlight your growth and learning. Embracing and using feedback effectively is crucial for your success as an intern. Consultants value interns who act on feedback and demonstrate clear progress, boosting your chances of landing a full-time role.

Tip #9: Network Effectively (Practical Tips).

Networking is key to making the most of your internship. It helps you learn from others, access mentorship, and open doors to new opportunities.

💡 Here’s how to network effectively with different people and make the most of your connections:

Advantages of Networking in the Internship

• Gain Valuable Insights and Guidance: Networking allows you to learn from others' experiences, gaining perspectives that can help you navigate your internship more effectively.
• Access to Mentorship: Building connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, providing you with advice and support from seasoned professionals.
• Increase Visibility and Opportunities: A strong network makes you more visible within the firm, which can open doors to new opportunities and enhance your chances of securing a full-time offer.

Whom to Network With

• Immediate Team and Project Leads: Start by building strong relationships with your immediate team members and project leads to ensure a supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Peers and Colleagues from Other Teams: Connect with peers across different teams to gain a broader perspective on the firm’s operations and culture.
• Senior Consultants and Managers: Networking with senior staff can provide strategic career insights and mentorship, guiding your professional development and growth.

5 Networking Best Practices for Interns

• Be Genuine and Curious: Show authentic interest in others’ roles and experiences by asking open-ended questions and being a good listener.
• Schedule Informal Meetings: Take the initiative to arrange coffee chats or informal meetups to foster open and insightful conversations in a relaxed setting.
• Follow Up and Stay Connected: Maintain contact by sending follow-up messages after meetings, sharing your progress, and staying engaged with your network’s activities and achievements.
• Leverage Internal Events and Training: Attend firm events, training sessions, and social gatherings to meet new people and expand your network in a natural way.
• Offer Help and Share Knowledge: Engage in reciprocal networking by offering assistance and sharing your own insights, which builds stronger, mutually beneficial relationships.

By following these networking strategies during your internship, you’ll cultivate meaningful relationships, gain valuable insights, and enhance your chances of securing a full-time position.

Tip #10: Evaluate Your Consulting Career Fit (5 Red Flags)

Landing an internship at a top consulting firm is a big accomplishment and shows your hard work has paid off. 💪 Turning that internship into a job offer is a great goal.

But if you find out during your internship that consulting might not be right for you, that’s okay too. It’s a chance to discover what suits you better and align your career with your strengths and interests. Internships are perfect for figuring out your career path. They let you explore different roles and industries, helping you decide if consulting is the right fit.

Here are five signs that consulting might not be your ideal long-term career:

1. Discomfort with Ambiguity and Uncertainty

If, during the internship, you felt stressed and uneasy with the constant ambiguity and shifting project priorities, then consulting, with its inherent uncertainty, might not be the best match for you.

2. Struggling with Long Hours and Intense Workload

If, during the internship, you found yourself overwhelmed by the long hours and high workload and struggled to maintain a healthy work-life balance, then the demanding lifestyle of consulting may not be sustainable for you.

3. Disinterest in Client Interaction

If, during the internship, you felt uneasy or unfulfilled during client meetings and engagements, then you might not find satisfaction in a consulting role that heavily relies on client interaction and relationship-building.

4. Aversion to Frequent Travel

If, during the internship, you felt that the frequent travel was disruptive to your personal life and well-being, then the regular travel requirements of a consulting career might not align with your preferences for stability and routine.

5. Lack of Passion for Problem-Solving

If, during the internship, you found that tackling complex problems was more of a chore than a stimulating challenge, then you might lack the intrinsic motivation needed to thrive in a consulting environment where problem-solving is key.

Reflecting on these experiences can help you determine if consulting aligns with your career goals and personal preferences. Use your internship as a critical assessment tool to make an informed decision about your future.

Key Takeaways to Make the Most of Your Consulting Internship

Your internship is more than just a temporary role – it’s a chance to showcase your skills, adaptability, and commitment to potential employers. By following these top 10 tips, you can not only excel as an intern, but also significantly increase your chances of securing a full-time consulting offer. Remember, the effort you invest now can set the foundation for a rewarding career in consulting. Stay proactive, seek feedback, and continuously strive for excellence. Your journey to becoming a star intern and future consultant starts with the steps you take today. Best of luck! 🍀

About the Author

Gaurav

#1 MBB Coach | The Only 360° coach

Professional Experience: Ex-McKinsey, Certified Coach, Active recruiter

Languages: English

Location: India

Gaurav has expertly coached candidates from diverse backgrounds—opera singers, US Marines, and scientists—into top MBB firms, proving his ability to guide anyone with potential. His coaching focuses not just on acing interviews but on transforming you into a standout consultant with a thriving career.