Explore Management Consulting Jobs at Northeastern University

Management consulting jobs are in great demand, and those wishing to enter the field often start by gaining some hands-on experience working with a management consultant firm. These consultants bring to the table vast experience in business management and consulting and can help young students and recent graduates find their way into this exciting field. While it is difficult to gain this type of experience without actually working in business, firms and consultancies will provide valuable consulting internships that will allow young professionals to gain some real-world business experience while gaining real benefits from their work experience. These experiences will help young professionals set themselves apart from other potential job candidates, as they will be able to show off their real talents and strengths.

The first step when looking for management consulting jobs is to consider which of the major areas of business interest you the most. There are many different areas, including market research, business development, sales and marketing, technology, and much more. Many of these consulting firms focus in one of several areas, and they are able to cater to clients who have unique needs. As such, if you find that you have an interest in one of these areas, you should begin networking with potential consulting employers to see if there are any openings within your field of interest.

Once you have identified areas of specialization, you can begin to network with potential employers. If you are already employed as a management consultant, there are several ways you can gain insight into what employers look for in their employees. For instance, if you work in the business development department of a company, you may be able to network with their clients or a business development manager. If you work in sales, you can talk to sales consultants and accountants. While these individuals may not be your ideal clients, they may be able to give you insight into what companies you should avoid approaching when seeking employment.

Once you have narrowed your list of possible employers, start to network with other people who are involved in the consulting industry. Find out who within your industry has the most influence and ability to help you obtain a management consulting job. Do this by chatting online, attending business networking events, and visiting conferences where the big three Consulting industry participants congregate. Meet other management consultants who could provide you with invaluable outside perspective on your career. Often, the advice of a mentor is invaluable.

Once you have met with several potential clients, do your homework. Ask them how they like working with business consultants, and what aspects of their job interests you. It is also important to ask them how many management consultants they currently employ, and what their experience has been like. While most successful business consultants started out working for only a handful of clients, many different types of positions exist and it is possible to find yourself working in a position you are truly passionate about.

Once you have a list of potential employers, it is time to get out there and start networking. If you find that you are highly qualified for a particular position, but do not know anyone who is in a position to hire you, consider starting a networking strategy. Schedule a few meetings with business consultants in your area or someone you know who could use a management consultant. Invite these individuals to a luncheon meeting or dinner event where you can talk about your experience. Many times, a management consultant may be interested in hiring someone with whom he or she has developed a good relationship.

Make sure to bring a resume and cover letter to each meeting, as this will serve as your “ingle” to potential employers. If possible, visit the homes of several potential management consultants you are interested in working with. At these visits, you can speak with the managers personally and discuss your qualifications and credentials. Most management consulting companies prefer to work with individuals who have at least three to five years of experience in business consulting. Your goal is to convince these large companies that you are the right person for the job.

Management consulting jobs are popular for many reasons. While the initial expense of obtaining an online MBA program may seem intimidating, once you have completed your degree and have your job, the income potential is substantial. Northeastern University has an online MBA program that graduates can transfer into a management consulting career. When you complete your education and begin your career in the business world, you will be glad that you decided to pursue your education at Northeastern University.