A management consultant is someone who helps managers run their companies and staff effectively through a variety of methods with input from the managers receiving the assistance. The management consultant assists managers with restructuring their operations, devising innovative marketing strategies for the companies to reach more customers, improving the human resources department for better employee relations, creating new information technology programs, and giving general advice concerning certain problems. The process begins with an interview between the consultant and client and this involves finding out the problem and getting to the cause of it before coming up with a solution. Management consultants need to be detail-oriented, compassionate, have a strong understanding of the business world and the ability to communicate well with clients.
How Can I Enter This Field?
To start your career you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in business management, economics, human resources or business administration. For an executive position a master’s degree might be required. While in college you should get a few internships with management consulting firms since this gives you real-life experience in the field. During the internship get to know the staff and ask questions about what life is like as a consultant. Do your best and keep your contacts as potential references. It’s also a good idea to specialize in a certain industry when you become a consultant because it allows you to use your expertise while assisting managers. For example, if you had a radio broadcasting background you can help radio station managers. It doesn’t hurt to obtain certification in management consulting in addition to the degree. Bring your resume and cover letter to job fairs and join a professional organization that helps aspiring consultants.
What Is The Salary Like?
The salary depends on your years of experience, certification, educational background, where you live and other factors. The average salary for a management consultant ranges between $63,000 and $115,000 annually according to Pay Scale. Those with 20 or more years of experience can earn up to $150,000 per year. If you choose to start your own business in this field it’s possible to have a high salary. Some of the best paying cities for management consultants are Chicago, New York City, Los Angeles and San Francisco. In Chicago you can earn up to $123,000 and in San Francisco you can earn up to $120,000 per year.
As business trends change regularly, it’s important that companies utilize the assistance of management consultants. These consultants can also keep companies out of legal trouble because they make managers aware of new laws that would affect the way companies hold themselves accountable financially and socially. If you’re passionate about helping others in the business world, you should consider this field.