After an extensive 10-year career on the client side, what guidance would you give someone in their mid-30s considering a career shift into consulting? Any advice on making the most of a broad T-shaped profile?

You've worked in engineering, supply chain, and data analysis for more than ten years, yet you feel stuck compared to colleagues who are successful in consulting. But your broad skill set is ideal for consulting, where the ability to solve problems and think strategically is highly recognised. 

To demonstrate your impact, highlight your accomplishments in developing creative data solutions or optimising supply chains. Aim for companies that share your skills, engage in active networking, and express your enthusiasm for consulting and appetite for fresh challenges. 

Your age is in your favour; stability, experience, and flexibility make you a valuable asset in high-pressure consulting settings. Prepare for case interviews, prioritise assignments that include client work, and modify your CV to highlight your qualifications. The secret to successfully transitioning into consulting is ultimately your abilities and zeal. 
 

Hi,

Sharing my perspective having both worked under, and managed laterals. 

1. Keep an open mind
   1. You are going to be learning new ways of working and be in an environment that is likely going to be more intense than you may have been used to
   2. Be open to advice, even if you at first may not understand why it is given or feel it is ‘unfair'
2. Leverage your unique strengths
   1. The one advantage you would have over consultants fresh out of school would be your experience
   2. Use your maturity in interpersonal situations and dealing with clients/internal stakeholders
   3. Use your business experience to help you be more 80/20 and nuanced in your insights
3. Leverage your peers and juniors
   1. Building on point #1, don't be afraid to ask people more junior for help and advice

All the best!

Hi Krishna,

First of all, congratulations on your career trajectory thus far!

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your situation:

• First of all, leverage your extensive experience in your field to differentiate yourself from other candidates. Consulting firms value diverse backgrounds that bring deep industry knowledge.
• Moreover, I would advise you to prepare thoroughly for the application process. As an interviewer, I see time and again that people fail in the application process because they lack skills that are easy to practise.
• Lastly, network with current consultants or those who made similar transitions. Understanding their career paths and learning from their experiences can provide valuable perspectives and increase your chances of a successful shift into consulting.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare for your upcoming interviews, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen