Employers generally search for management consultants who have a bachelor's degree with emphases in business or management. Educational suggestions include courses in business, management, economics, accounting, marketing, computer and information sciences and engineering. Management consulting specialists must have strong verbal and written communication skills, favorable judgment, good time management skills, creativity and analytical skills. These consultants need to be able to get along with people and work well in team as well as individual situations.
Management consulting specialists often start out at companies as entry level research analysts in order to gain work experience. These research analysts often have associates degrees in management, human resources, information technology or other specialties that enhance consulting skills.
The majority of management consultants are self-employed. As they attain experience, they become entirely responsible for specific projects and they take on more responsibility. At their highest level, management consultants often supervise lower level employees and become involved in seeking out additional business. Some consultants with outstanding skills could become a partner in the firm or even start their own firm.
