Who are the Clients?
In theory, any business can use a strategy consulting firm. But the majority of organisations that do so are large to very large businesses that have national or, in many cases, global operations. These companies come from virtually all industries - including financial services, consumer goods, retail, healthcare, energy, utilities, industrial goods, media & telecoms, private equity, pro-bono & social impact. Government agencies and non-profit organisations are also frequent clients of strategy consulting firms.Â
The Value of Strategy Consulting to Clients
Strategy consultants bring two attractive sets of capabilities to their clients. The first is specific expertise and experience. A business might, for example, find itself wondering which strategy to adopt to enter an attractive yet competitive market. A top strategy-consulting firm has likely guided any number of businesses through precisely that same decision and has accumulated a wealth of related knowledge along the way. Incorporating this knowledge and expertise in the decision-making process can be an invaluable resource to that business.
The second key attribute that strategy consulting firms offer these organisations is an independent perspective. Businesses often find themselves tied to particular approaches and ways of thinking. A consulting firm, which has no such biases, can bring a fresh point of view. Coupled with a rigorously analytical approach, strategy consultants can deliver innovative solutions to their clients’ problems to make a significant impact.
What Does It Take to Become a Strategy Consultant?
By its nature, strategy consulting demands a range of attributes. These include intellectual curiosity, analytical rigor, creativity, empathy, the ability to communicate effectively, and the passion and desire to make a difference. If you meet these criteria and choose to pursue a career in strategy consulting, you could find yourself in one of the most challenging as well as personally and professionally rewarding occupations there are.