If the typical management consultant job description appeals to you, it is time to consider how your career pathway might look. All management consultants are expected to have at least a bachelor’s degree. However, a bachelor’s degree often isn’t enough by itself.
It’s not unusual for these professionals to have a graduate degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a doctoral degree. Aspiring consultants often choose a degree that focuses specifically on business management.
The job of a management consultant is not an entry-level one. You should plan for at least a few years of work experience in the field first. In this regard, specializing in a particular area can work to your advantage.
For instance, if you plan to specialize in consulting with tech companies, then having some work experience in the tech field is ideal. Similarly, healthcare organizations might prefer to hire a management consultant who has previously worked as a healthcare administrator.
Although it’s not a requirement, earning a relevant certification is another way to give yourself an extra edge over the competition in the job marketplace. Look for a certification offered by a reputable professional organization. An example is the Certified Management Consultant (CMC®) credential offered by the Institute of Management Consultants USA (IMC USA).
However, you will not be eligible to earn the CMC® credential right away. First, you must demonstrate that management consulting activities have comprised a significant part of your job description for at least three of the past five years. You must also obtain letters of recommendation and successfully pass written and oral examinations.1