Consulting is defined as the practise of providing a third party with expertise on a matter in exchange for a fee. The service may involve either advisory or implementation services. For the consultant, taking an independent and unbiased stance on an issue is central to his/her role. A consultant can, in principle, service any sector. Over the past few decades, however, the term has become synonymous with business advisory – which focuses mostly on business strategy, management, organisation, operational processes and technology.
What do consulting firms base their right to exist on? One key feature of the industry is the so-called ‘knowledge advantage’ that consultancy firms hold in relation to their clients. Consultancy firms are hired to help their clients with a dilemma, for which specialist expertise or knowledge is needed which is otherwise lacking on the clients’ end.
Another feature is that consultancy firms form an independent party, which can give the clients an objective perspective on the problems that their organisation struggles with, and can offer them solutions toward the problem. Involving a consultancy firm can also, in some cases, be more cost effective than if an organisation were to hire experts themselves. Furthermore, an organisation often simply does not have sufficient capacity to manage its change portfolio, which can be done by hiring an external consultancy firm instead.
Career Advice
We want to help you build a career you love. Get practical advice on finding a job, exploring different career paths, and succeeding in the job you already have.
Careers in Data and Analytics
Trying to break into the world of data science, analytics, and business intelligence? We have advice on how to get started and how to get hired. Plus, we’ve collected insights from folks already working in data roles: how they got where they are, what their jobs and companies are like, and what advice they have to share.
Careers in Finance
Whether you’re eyeing a job as an investment banker, an accountant, or any type of financial analyst, you might need some help getting started. We’ve got advice to help you explore different career paths under the broad finance umbrella and give you an edge in the job search. Plus, you’ll hear from folks already working in finance about how they got where they are, what their jobs and companies are like, and what insights they have to share.
Careers in Marketing
Marketing is an incredibly diverse field, with many different types of careers you can pursue—there’s truly something for everyone, from creative strategists to data nerds and more. We’ll help you understand your options, navigate the job search, and succeed in the long run. Plus, we’ll share insights from folks already working in marketing: how they got where they are, what their jobs and companies are like, and what advice they’d give.
Careers in Sales
Contemplating a career in sales? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve collected advice on nailing the sales job search—from selling yourself with a stellar resume to preparing for sales-specific interview questions—as well as info on basics like commission and bonuses and tips for getting ahead once you land the job. We’ve also asked folks already working in sales to share how they got where they are, what their jobs and companies are like, and what advice they have to give.
Careers in Software
Interested in a career in software ? We’ve collected advice to help you navigate your job search—from writing a standout software resume to acing your interviews, technical and otherwise. There are also insights from folks already working as software: how they got where they are, what their jobs and companies are like, and what advice they have to share. Good luck!