Why kind of politics do consulting firms have?

Hi there,

This is indeed an interesting question which is probably relevant for quite a lot of users, so I am happy to provide my perspective on it:

• Generally speaking, every organization in this world has some form of politics since there will always be differing opinions and people trying to pursuade other from their. While I feel politics are slightly more subtle than in other industries, they still exist across all levels.
• As such, I would advise you to embrace it as a challenge since you will always be required to maneuver in political environments. For instance, you could reach out to your mentor and discuss your issues with him/ her, or closely observe other colleagues handling politics. In case you would be able to specify what exactly you are struggling with, I would be delighted to provide you with additional tips.

In case you want a more detailed discussion on how to best position yourself for swift career progression, please feel free to contact me directly.

I hope this helps,

Hagen

Hello, 

joining consulting after 13 years of industry experience (from my point of view as a comparison to industry) I would say that consulting firms have much less visible politics for junior team members than other firms by far. I actually say, my consulting firm is the only firm where I can be myself and be honest with what I like/dislike and what I want. I highly appreciate significantly greater transparency (in comparison to my previous industry employers) in company decisions as well as high ethic standards treating employees. 

There are obviously politics, however, they are more at a higher level of the company, that won't much impact you as a consultant.

What I, however, would recommend is to network extensively within your firm and actively volunteer in non-case projects to increase your visibility which can help you in your career trajectory. 

Lucie

Hi there,

First of all, I'm completely with you - I hate politics at work and always have. I just want to get the work done.

However, that said, you need to suck it up and learn. This is something you absolutely can learn if you put your mind to it. And you kind of have to.

You are able to handle it if you have the mindset that you are able to handle it. Observe and learn from those around you. At the end of day, politics is just the manifestation of human nature (i.e. our social nature, bias, ego, etc.) so it's something you'll need to navigate whether it's in consulting or not.

Good luck!

Politics: “the set of activities that are associated with making decisions in groups, or other forms of power relations between individuals, such as the distribution of resources or status.”

This is not a partner-only thing. It happens at all levels of an organization. Of course, the higher you are, the more it happens. The consulting firms try to be as meritocratic as possible, but in many instances, particularly with up-or-out and promotions, politics will play a role, as some consultants may have some protection (or seek protection) from a more powerful partner.

But it is also quite relevant when one wants to drive change in an organization. It's through politics that you get buy-in for change.

Ideally, particularly when you are junior, you should try to find someone who is more experienced to guide you through office politics.

There is politics everywhere and its just human nature. You cant get away with it. 

Consulting firms too have this and the intensity will obviously depend on the firm, location etc. At your level or typically junior levels its less pronounced and gets intense the more senior you go.

The best way to deal with it is to ignore it. Politics stems from the fundamental insecurity to be better that someone else or get ahead of someone else. You can also do this by playing fair & square. And should this not work, that particular firm is not the right fit you anyway. Focus on producing high quality work, continue to learn & build relationships with colleagues/bosses as much as you can.

Hi there,

1) Why kind of politics do consulting firms have?

Every company has some kind of politics. The exact degree depends on (i) country and (ii) company. 

2) I am at consultant level so I don't know how to handle this as I feel this is more of a partner thing. And I am not able to handle it.

I would recommend you describe the exact thing you struggle with, it is difficult to provide specific suggestions otherwise.

Best,

Francesco

Hi, I can confirm such dynamics exist in consulting too, but with a lower impact for junior roles than most of the other industries. Btw it depends on the firm and the geography

Best,
Antonello

Hello!

I can only compare it to tech and the architecture world, which are quite different. 

My two cents, however, is that politics are indeed strong, and at least in McK, very office-based. 

Only time lets you discover it all, learn and adapt. 

Hope it helps!

Cheers, 

Clara