Consultants provide expert advice. They are skilled problem solvers who provide an objective perspective or specialized knowledge. Organizations across industries rely on consultants for expertise to maximize profitability and increase effectiveness.
- Large management consulting firms such as McKinsey, Bain, and Boston Consulting Group help organizations improve their structure, management, profitability, and assist in the development of strategies for short- and long-term growth. Undergraduate students starting at a large management consulting firm often begin as a generalist and gain exposure to many fields. Graduate students with prior work experience or expertise may specialize earlier at these firms.
- Undergraduate students seeking to specialize should consider boutique consulting firms, which offer specialized guidance for clients in areas such as nonprofit, economic development, health care, government, environment, or engineering.
- Nonprofit consulting firms help nonprofits raise funds, improve operations, and maximize their impact.
Consulting firms seek talent from diverse backgrounds, including social sciences, humanities, and STEM fields. Read on to learn about the types of consulting firms, the breadth of roles, and how to assess whether this career is right for you.
