|
Choose a Business Degree for a New Future |  |
Management Consultants: The Fix-It Gurus
January 16, 2007
by Jessica Groach
Business Programs Columnist
Running a company can be difficult -- there's a lot you have to juggle. Sometimes you need to call in reinforcements. That's where management consultants come in.
A company's procedures are inefficient, costing them thousands of dollars every month. Another company wants to launch its product in a new, international market. These situations have one thing in common -- they could both benefit from a management consulting firm.
What is Management Consulting?
A management consulting professional analyzes and proposes ways to improve an organization's structure, efficiency, or profits. Companies hire such firms to develop strategies for entering or competing in a marketplace, to reorganize a company's structure, or to evaluate inventory management. The work varies by client, and management consultants must spend a large percentage of their time working on site, becoming immersed in that business's day to day operations. Management consulting requires self discipline, analytical skills, an aptitude for problem solving, creativity, and flexibility. You must work well in teams. And you must be confident. After all, if you propose a solution, you have to be sure you can stand behind it.
The Work
The majority of management consultants work in firms that specialize in scientific, technical, or computer systems work. Specialties may range from economics to math, psychology to information technology. Of course a background in business management training is essential. Thirty percent of management consultants are self-employed, in part because start-up costs are so low, and in part because this allows the consultant to assume client office space, to travel, and reduce overhead costs. If you are an entrepreneur at heart, consider management consulting. Sixty-hour work weeks are typical, and frequent travel is commonplace. But if you think you have valuable input about the way businesses operate, you might be ready for management consulting.
Source:
About the Author
Jessica Groach is a freelance writer and writing instructor at the University of Nevada, Reno. She has seven years experience in media, advertising and public relations. Her work has appeared in various lifestyle and business publications, including a Warner Business Book.
|
|
