Topic 9:

Obtaining an Entry-Level Consultant Position with a Consulting Group

Question: I am a part-time graduate student in OD/Training and I would like to join a team of seasoned OD consultants as an entry-level consultant. I would like to gain experience in using a general model for change. My background is diverse, however, I have skills relevant to doing consultant work. My question is: What is the best way for me to approach these external consulting groups?

--Christine, Massachusetts

Answer: Consulting firms usually hire people with training/HRD experience and an area of expertise such as health care or financial services. The first step you need to take is to create a resume showcasing your consulting skills documented by brief descriptions of successes plus the knowledge gained through your graduate courses. It should tell your professional story in a very deliberate and focused way. You will need to convince a consulting firm why it should offer you an opportunity to join its team.

Join your local ASTD and OD Chapters, network, volunteer (even if you only help out at meeting registrations). The idea is to have people get to know you, your interests, and capabilities. Talk to your professors; they may do freelance work for consulting firms or refer you to an alumnus who is associated with one. Check the ASTD Job Bank and also post your resume at the site. Put the whole site link in, then backslash, #, and name of anchor link. Link to Information Resources for Job Search Information for Websites listing HR positions, you may find opportunities in consulting firms in your location. Research the major consulting firms to learn who has branch offices in your location and write to them to see what opportunities they may have.

If your financial situation allows it, develop an internship proposal outlining the areas, such as using a general change model, in which you would like to gain experience. As you network and meet people associated with a consulting firm talk to them about creating an internship position. Internships can lead to permanent positions.

--AR