I've recently secured a position as a business analyst in Deloitte Middle East's major programmes portfolio, specifically in the Human Capital Consulting division. My start date is January 24', and I'm eager to make the most of the next two months. Any tips/advice on how to stay ahead of the curve during this time? e.g. refining Excel/PowerPoint skills, staying updated on Human Capital trends, studying for CAPM, and refining soft skills. Thanks!
Congratulations on securing a position as a business analyst at Deloitte Middle East's Human Capital Consulting division! It's great to see your enthusiasm for making the most of the next two months before your start date. Here are some tips and advice to help you stay ahead of the curve:
Refining Excel/PowerPoint Skills: Excel and PowerPoint are essential tools in consulting. Take this time to enhance your proficiency in these applications. Familiarize yourself with advanced functions in Excel, such as pivot tables, data analysis, and macros. In PowerPoint, focus on creating visually appealing and impactful presentations, mastering different layouts, and efficiently editing/updating slides.
Staying Updated on Human Capital Trends: Human Capital is a dynamic field, and staying updated on the latest trends and developments is crucial. Subscribe to industry publications, such as Harvard Business Review, McKinsey Insights, or Deloitte's own research reports. Attend webinars or virtual conferences related to Human Capital to gain insights into emerging practices and thought leadership.
Studying for CAPM: If you have decided to pursue the CAPM certification, allocate dedicated time to study and prepare for the exam. Utilize study materials, online resources, and practice exams to familiarize yourself with the content and format of the exam. Aim to develop a solid understanding of project management principles and best practices.
Refining Soft Skills: Soft skills are equally important in consulting. Use this time to enhance your communication, presentation, and critical thinking skills. Consider taking online courses or workshops that focus on these areas. Additionally, practice your problem-solving abilities by solving case studies or participating in mock interviews.
Networking and Building Relationships: Reach out to current or former Deloitte employees, colleagues, or professionals in the consulting industry. Building relationships and expanding your network can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential opportunities in the future. Attend virtual networking events or engage in online communities related to consulting and Human Capital.
Remember to maintain a balance between personal and professional development during this time. Take care of your well-being, engage in activities you enjoy, and prepare yourself mentally for the exciting journey ahead.
Best of luck in your preparations, and I look forward to your successful start at Deloitte Middle East!
Hi there,
MOST IMPORTANTLY: Know that no-one can perfectly prepare for the job and that's the point: You will mess up, you will learn, you will be trained and supported. That's OK!
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First: Read the 25 tips in my consulting handbook
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Second: In terms of things you can learn/do to prepare beforehand:
1) Daily Reading
2) Industry deep-dives
3) Analytics tools
4) Excel
5) Powerpoint
6) Presentation skills / sharp communication
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Third: In terms of doing well in your role when you're there:
1) Understand the context/prompt (what role are you in, what company, who's watching, etc.)
2) Understand the objective (what, specifically, is expected from you...both day to day, and in your overall career progression)
3) Quickly process information, and focus on what's important - Take a lot of information and the unknown, find the most logical path, and focus on that.
4) Be comfortable with the unknown, and learn to brainstorm - think/speak like an expert without being one
In summary, there will always be a flood of information, expectations, competition etc. and not enough time. Find out which ones matter when. (i.e. be visibile and focus efforts on the things that people care about)
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Fourth: Here are some great prior Q&As for you!
https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/how-hard-is-it-to-excel-in-top-consulting-firms-6762
Hi!
Congrats! That's a cool opportunity.
It's always best to start with a vacation :) and with the certainty that you're going to get all the training that you need when you do get going.
If you do want to work on some skills however, sharing with you two guides that look into some of the abilities that are critical for becoming a top performer in your first year.
Hope you will find the useful!
Best,
Cristian
