I have around 3 years of consulting experience (post MBA), and had worked on projects across diversified industries. Originally I have planned to stay in consulting for more years to accumulate more project experience and discover which practice area I want to specialize in, but now I'm forced to think about the next career move due to involuntarily reasons.
I'm a bit puzzled now as I have wide exposure in different industries and topics (i.e. less specialized and more of a generalist). I have more experience in the Financial Services sector, but Retail seems more interesting which is a sector I had less experience. Adding a bit more complexity, different office have different needs in terms of industry expertise / project experience.
For my next career move in consulting (most possibly entering as one level beneath manager), is it important to pick a “practice” that I want to specialize for the long term? I'm trying to balance “interest” vs. “experience to leverage". What would be the most critical factor to consider when making such decision? Am I overthinking?
Right now I feel I don't have much choice given such limited position openings, so I'm adopting a strategy to maximize the probability to find a consulting position: apply to multiple regions, and in each region apply to the role which I can leverage my industry experience in the practice that is recruiting. Any advice is welcomed!