Top Tips for New Consulting Analysts: The Insider's Guide
Starting a consulting career can feel daunting. In this blog we’ll share key strategies on mastering efficiency, asking the best questions, and networking to set you up for success.
Launch your consulting career confidently with these proven tips for new consulting analysts.
Master Keyboard Shortcuts
There’s a lot of work for analysts in consulting and being able to chew through it in the most efficient way will make a big difference to your work life balance. Keyboard shortcuts are an easy one to master early in your consulting career.
Invest time upfront to learn shortcuts in Excel, PowerPoint, Word
These are our top 10 keyboard shortcuts. Happy shortcutting!
Ask Smart Questions
New consulting analysts often make the mistake of either not asking enough questions or asking the wrong questions.
Here’s some handy guidelines to asking the best questions:
Don't ask anything that can be easily Googled
Ask questions that help set the context of the client’s organisation, processes and politics
Frame questions as seeking validation rather than guidance
Here’s an example of a smart question: “Does this client have a specific way they like process maps to be presented? Otherwise I’ll keep using best practice” This demonstrates you’ve understood the core, but you’re looking for contextual validation.
Network Strategically
Networking is about creating meaningful connections. Meeting lots of people is just the start.
Keep these top tips in mind when networking:
Move beyond one-off coffees to cultivate strong relationships. Prioritise quality over quantity
Identify mutually beneficial connections who are aligned to your career goals
Provide ongoing value to earn advocates over time. This is particularly true when networking with senior people in your firm like Partners. Demonstrate that you can add consistently high quality value to them and you’ll earn their support at promotion time.
Adopt a Growth Mindset
Your early days in consulting can feel overwhelming but the secret is in your mindset. Continuous improvement is a core part of the consulting culture.
Adopt a growth mindset with these three tips:
View early challenges as learning experiences
Ask for feedback and act on it
Continually expand your skills and knowledge
Focus on Creating Impact
You won’t get everything right the first time from day one. However, if you can stay focused on creating impact for both the firm and your clients you won’t go far wrong.
Look for ways to exceed expectations and add value
Build your personal brand through excellent work
Success comes through consistency over time
Set Yourself Up for the Long-Term
In summary, maximising efficiency, strategic questions, and meaningful networking separate average from outstanding new consultants. The quicker you master this the quicker you’ll adapt to your consulting new career.
Implement these proven strategies early to build a strong foundation for an incredible career.
