By Preethi Durga, a career strategist and education innovator.
At a recent career workshop, a college student asked me, “I’m passionate about business strategy and helping companies grow, but I’m not sure what a management consultant actually does or how to even get started.”
This question is common, and it speaks to the heart of a larger issue: many young people are eager to pursue careers that not only offer growth but also make a real impact—especially in dynamic fields like management consulting. However, understanding what management consultants actually do day-to-day and how to break into the field can be daunting. For parents, the bigger concern is whether this career path is truly stable, in-demand, and future-proof enough to confidently support their child’s ambitions.
What I’ve realized is that while we often hear about major business decisions and corporate success stories, we rarely focus on the professionals behind the scenes who shape these outcomes. This is where management consultants play a crucial role.
If management consulting interests you—even a little—explore it now.
According to the Research Gate Handbook of 2012, management consultants are the strategists and problem-solvers who help organizations tackle challenges, optimize operations, and achieve sustainable growth. With AI transforming consulting, roles now demand blending human insight with tech-driven analytics, setting new benchmarks for problem-solvers.
As businesses grow more complex, understanding roles like management consulting is becoming increasingly essential.
With companies constantly seeking efficiency, innovation, and growth, the demand for skilled management consultants is rising steadily. For those who start exploring this field early, there’s not just the opportunity to secure a rewarding career, but also to make a tangible impact on businesses across industries.
If you’re a student fascinated by strategy, problem-solving, and business transformation—or a parent helping your child navigate career choices—this might be the career path to explore.
As a parent, your practical questions are valid: Is this path stable, in-demand, and truly future-proof for my child? Let’s look at evidence and real pathways, not just buzzwords.
According to the Management Consultancies Association’s 2023 Report, the consulting industry in India is expected to grow at over 12% annually in the coming years — creating strong demand for management talent. This presents sustained hiring opportunities, with a broad range of roles emerging for aspiring consultants.
Why does this matter right now? In fact, according to the McKinsey Report Of 2025, 65% of Indian startups in 2025 sought consulting services to scale their operations, as reported by McKinsey. (Source: McKinsey Report, 2025)
This highlights the immediate need for management consultants, making this a prime time for students and parents to consider this dynamic career path.
What this means: It’s not just about future potential — the demand for consulting professionals is real and urgent today.
Why Exploring the Job of Management Consultant Early Can Make a Big Difference
Over the years, I’ve spoken with many students—some who discovered their interest in business strategy and problem-solving early, and others who only found it later. No matter how they got there, one thing stands out: those who explored management consulting early? They just moved differently. They were more confident, more informed, and much better prepared to seize real-world opportunities when they came along.
Take Anita, for example. She was a Class 12 student from Bangalore who joined her school’s business and entrepreneurship club. That small decision led her to intern at a local consulting firm, assisting with market research and process improvement projects. Between club activities, case competitions, school assignments, and hands-on work at the firm, Anita learned to analyze problems critically, work with clients, and manage multiple priorities—exactly the kind of skills management consultants use daily.
By the time she entered college, she already knew she wanted to become a management consultant. While her classmates were still exploring general business ideas, Anita was already solving real client problems and applying her analytical skills in professional settings.
Her mother, initially skeptical about the intense commitment Anita had towards her career goal, started to see the transformation. Anita’s mother, initially worried about job security, saw her daughter’s internships build not just skills but confidence, easing her fears about consulting’s demands. As Anita’s confidence grew through early exposure to consulting, her mother noticed how capable and focused she had become, ready to face the real-world challenges ahead. The early hands-on experience not only solidified Anita’s career aspirations but also reassured her mother about the stability and growth prospects of the profession.
Student Advantage:
Here’s what I’ve noticed about students like Anita:-
- Sharper Focus: They start understanding key business concepts and consulting methodologies early, making their college and career choices feel intentional.
- Better Internships: Hands-on experience allows them to apply for internships at consulting firms or corporate strategy teams, giving them an edge in a competitive market.
- Less Overwhelm: Because they’ve already explored consulting projects, the world of management consulting doesn’t feel intimidating—it feels exciting.
- Natural Time Management: Balancing clubs, competitions, and projects early teaches them to handle multiple responsibilities—a skill they carry into college and professional life.
Parent Takeaway:
- Encouraging your child to explore the job of a management consultant early isn’t about locking them into a decision. It’s about giving them exposure—so they can choose wisely and with confidence.
According to Statista’s Consulting Report of 2024, the rapid expansion of the industry from 2020 to 2023 has highlighted the increasing need for external consultants who possess strategic expertise in business administration, business development, and in-depth knowledge of the industries their clients operate in.
You’re Ready for the Job Market Way Before Others
Here’s something most students don’t realize: Management consulting is a fast-growing and highly competitive field. As companies navigate complex markets, they seek strategic guidance—and that’s where consultants come in. Those who show initiative early get noticed quickly.
If you’re already ahead of the curve, you’re in a strong position.
- Analyzed case studies? ✅
- Completed a business strategy certification? ✅
- Assisted in a real-world consulting project? ✅
By the time you graduate, you’ll be ahead of the crowd. While others are still trying to understand what a client brief means, you’ll already be proposing solutions.
Neuroscience Cue: Choosing a consulting career is like wiring your brain for strategic problem-solving. The more you engage with real-world projects, the more your brain adapts to solving complex business challenges—and the more confident you’ll become in your ability to make an impact.
Take Rohan, for example.
Rohan pursued a BBA with a focus on business strategy, completed a certification in management consulting, and interned with a consulting firm assisting on market research and process optimisation. Now, at just 23, he’s already contributing to client projects for multinational organisations. And it all started because he chose to explore early.
For parents, the lesson is simple: giving your child early exposure doesn’t lock them into one path, but it does mean that by the time real job opportunities arrive, they’re already confident and employable.
A good management consultant, as highlighted by The Drum Report of 2024, should be able to build a strong reputation for the company or client they work for, establishing trust and credibility. They must be forward-thinking, staying ahead of market trends to keep clients competitive, and possess a problem-solving mindset, focusing on innovative solutions to address client challenges effectively.
Takeaway:
If the job of a management consultant interests you—even just a little—my advice is simple: explore it now. Read business articles, participate in competitions, join clubs, or take an online course.
Becoming a management consultant isn’t just about knowing frameworks or buzzwords. It’s about gaining the right skills, experiences, and mindset while others are still playing catch-up.
According to ISR Report, 2025, management skills remain in high demand, with 69% of respondents considering them “important” and 15% rating them as “extremely important.” (Source: ISR Report, 2025)
This growing emphasis on management highlights the critical need for strong leadership within organizations. Managers are pivotal in guiding teams, setting clear goals, and ensuring projects are completed efficiently.
Industry Spotlight: Where Management Consulting Careers Are Booming
Key Stats: Management Consulting Industry Growth
65% of Indian Startups Sought Consulting Services to Scale Operations
Source: McKinsey Global Management Consulting Insights, 2025
Global Consulting Industry Expected to Grow by 10% in 2025
Source: Statista Report, 2025
Average Salary of a Management Consultant in the U.S.: $98,000 per Year
Source: Glassdoor Management Consultant Salary, 2025
69% of Employers Consider Management Skills “Extremely Important”
Source: ISR Report, 2025
When people think of management consulting, they often imagine executives in suits giving advice. Today, the reality is much broader—and in India, demand for management consultants is rising rapidly across sectors.
The future of management consulting looks bright, with industries across the board seeking strategic guidance. Companies are grappling with complex markets, and those who show initiative early—like Rohan, who interned with a consulting firm at 19 and now contributes to multinational client projects at 23—are already ahead in this competitive field.
Analyses from multiple consulting talent reports indicate that consultants with strong storytelling skills are expected to see significantly higher career growth by 2030. (Source: Sage University Report, 2025)
This highlights the growing importance of soft skills, making it shareable and compelling for both students and professionals.
Management consulting careers span industries like:
- Strategy & Operations Consulting
- Financial Advisory & Risk Consulting
- Human Capital & Organizational Development
- Technology & Digital Transformation Consulting
- Healthcare & Public Sector Consulting
In India, demand for skilled management consultants is increasing, with firms actively looking for talented individuals who can adapt to client needs and industry trends. Early entry into this field can give you a head start in internships, skill-building opportunities, and real client exposure.
Take Anika, for instance.
Anika started her career pursuing a business degree and joined her university’s consulting club. Early exposure to case studies, client simulations, and internships helped her gain confidence and practical insights. Today, she works with a top-tier consulting firm, advising Fortune 500 companies on strategic growth and operational improvements—all before turning 28.
Takeaways
You don’t need to have everything figured out. Start by reading business articles, joining business clubs, participating in case competitions, or taking online courses. Building the right skills and experiences early will put you far ahead of your peers when the job opportunities arrive.
For parents, encouraging early exploration isn’t about locking your child into one career path—it’s about giving them the exposure and skills to make a confident, informed choice.
At Global Firms, Management Consulting Roles Are Evolving Fast—and So Are the Paychecks
When it comes to salaries in management consulting, the truth is there’s no single figure that applies to everyone. Pay varies depending on location, company size, domain expertise, and the kind of projects you work on. But to give you a broad picture, here’s what the market shows right now:
- Starting out (Analyst/Associate): Freshers usually begin around ₹6–10 LPA.
- Mid-career professionals (Consultants, Senior Consultants): With 3–7 years of experience, packages often move into the ₹12–20 LPA range.
- Specialized or leadership roles (Engagement Managers, Principals, Partners): At top-tier firms, salaries can cross ₹25 LPA and beyond.
The takeaway? Internships, case-study experience, certifications, and domain expertise are what shift you from the lower to the upper end of these bands. Salaries are best seen as directional indicators—a way to understand how the field rewards skills and results, not rigid pay scales carved in stone.
Let’s break it down. Curious whether your child’s strengths and temperament align with the job of a management consultant?
Management Consulting: The Strategic Problem-Solvers
This is where the action happens.
Management consultants help organizations solve complex business problems, optimize processes, and achieve strategic growth. You’ll analyse data, conduct research, present recommendations to clients, and implement solutions to improve efficiency and profitability.
What I’ve Seen:
I’ve worked with students who started with a general interest in business or economics. They participated in consulting clubs, case competitions, and internships at firms—and today, they’re working with top consulting companies, driving strategic decisions for leading organizations.
If you love strategy, problem-solving, and seeing your ideas turn into real business impact—this path is for you.
Strategy & Operations Consulting: Driving Business Success
As companies grow and face increasingly complex challenges, the demand for strategy and operations consultants has surged. Management consultants in this domain work to optimise processes, improve efficiency, and guide organisations in achieving strategic goals. Whether it’s streamlining operations, advising on mergers, or designing growth strategies, consulting plays a critical role in today’s business world.
Strategy and operations consultants typically earn ₹6–10 LPA as freshers, with mid-level consultants moving into ₹12–20 LPA, and leadership roles crossing ₹25 LPA, depending on experience, expertise, and the consulting firm.
These salary bands are directional; internships, case-study experience, and certifications materially shift offers upward.
What I’ve Noticed:
Students who engage early with business case studies, participate in consulting clubs, and take internships in real organisations tend to excel in this field. The hands-on experience they gain during college projects or competitions pays off quickly.
If you’re someone who enjoys solving complex business problems, analysing data, and designing strategies that make a real impact—strategy and operations consulting might be your perfect fit.
Consulting Startups: The Thrill of Innovation
If traditional consulting roles feel structured or slow-moving, the startup world could be your playground. While traditional consulting offers stability, startups bring a dynamic edge to the field. From advising new businesses on scaling operations to creating innovative growth strategies, startups are often at the cutting edge of management consulting and need fast thinkers who thrive in a rapidly evolving environment.
What It Pays:
Early-stage consulting roles may start with modest salaries but often include performance incentives, profit-sharing, or ESOPs, giving long-term growth potential. Funded startups can offer compensation approaching mid-tier consulting firm levels, depending on the role and responsibilities.
Why It Works:
Some of the most exciting careers in consulting have come from students who took matters into their own hands—they worked on personal business projects, joined case competitions, or interned at consulting startups. Their proactive energy is a perfect fit for this space.
If you love working in a fast-paced environment, enjoy innovation, and dream of solving real business challenges—consulting startups could offer the thrill and purpose you’re looking for.
Why Management Consulting is Your Child’s Ticket to a Future-Proof Career in 2025
Management consulting isn’t just a job—it’s a career that adapts, evolves, and thrives in a rapidly changing world. Whether it’s strategy, operations, finance, human capital, or technology, the possibilities are vast. The key? Start early, and the future is yours to shape.
According to Harvard Business Review’s Report of 2025, by 2030, soft skills like storytelling will outshine coding in consulting.
The shift towards human-centered strategies is accelerating. While technical skills remain important, consulting firms are increasingly prioritizing creativity, leadership, and communication abilities.
LinkedIn’s skill-demand projections (2024) show a rising emphasis on storytelling and client communication in consulting roles. While data and technical proficiency are critical, the ability to turn complex insights into compelling stories will be what sets top consultants apart.
The future of consulting is in soft skills, not just coding. Start preparing today!
A career in consulting offers endless possibilities. Strategy, operations, finance, and more—your child’s future in 2025 starts here.
A career in management consulting can lead to roles in top-tier consulting firms, startups, multinational corporations, and government advisory projects. It’s one of the few careers where you can earn well while making a tangible impact on businesses.
And if you’re just starting out? Perfect. You’ve got time to learn, explore, and carve your own path in a field that’s only going to keep growing.
Scope without alignment leads to struggle. That’s why we match roles not only to skills but also to your child’s values, pace, and environment.
Future Outlook for Management Consulting Careers: What’s Changing — and What to Expect Next
If you or your child is passionate about building a career in consulting, here’s something I want you to know—the consulting sector isn’t a passing trend. It’s becoming a core function across industries, and the job of a management consultant is at the heart of that shift.
Ten years ago, consulting jobs were mostly associated with large corporations. Today, they are part of strategic decision-making conversations across businesses of all sizes.
Emerging roles include:
- Strategy & Operations Consultants in MNCs
- Financial & Risk Advisors for startups and corporates
- Human Capital & Organizational Development Consultants
- Technology & Digital Transformation Consultants
- Public Sector & Government Advisory Consultants
What This Means for You:
If your child builds strong foundational knowledge in consulting—along with practical skills—they’ll be positioned for high-impact, high-paying, and globally relevant roles. These aren’t just support roles anymore; they are business-critical positions.
Consulting Skills That Make You Stand Out
Just like every business needs strategy, they need effective consultants too. And understanding the right frameworks and tools plays a big role.
Skills in demand include:
- Analytical and problem-solving frameworks (e.g., MECE, SWOT, Porter’s Five Forces)
- Data analysis and visualization (e.g., Excel, Power BI, Tableau)
- Financial modeling and business case preparation
- Project management and client communication
What This Means for You
Students who combine strong analytical skills with client-facing abilities will stand out. They won’t just get hired—they’ll lead the charge in transforming businesses and driving growth.
3–5 Year Outlook
Management Consultants are in high demand, with a projected 9% growth in employment from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov report, 2024). With 1,075,100 jobs expected by 2024, there are plenty of opportunities for aspiring consultants.
Try This Today
This 30-Day Plan will give students a practical, step-by-step guide to dive into the world of management consulting. It’s clear, actionable, and gives them the opportunity to learn and grow within a structured timeframe.
Cost of Inaction
Without early skill-building, students risk missing out on high-demand consulting roles that require advanced analytical, technical, and client-facing abilities. The competition is fierce, and starting early can make all the difference in landing top-tier consulting opportunities.
Management Consulting: Not Optional Anymore
Strategic consulting is no longer optional for companies—it’s essential. From global firms to startups, organizations are looking for professionals who can guide decision-making, optimise operations, and deliver measurable impact.
What This Means for You:
If your child develops consulting knowledge early, they’ll be ahead of the curve—stepping into roles that didn’t even exist five years ago, with compensation and growth opportunities to match.
Global & Remote Management Consulting Careers Are Booming
With remote collaboration tools and the growing global demand for strategic business guidance, many management consultants now work with international teams or in freelance advisory roles. A 2025 World Economic Forum analysis highlighted that business strategy and consulting skills are among the top 10 fastest-growing competencies on LinkedIn globally.
What This Means For You
Exposure to global consulting practices and collaboration tools now makes graduates more competitive for remote-first consulting roles.
Micro-Scenario: Meet Ananya
Ananya, a business student from Mumbai, started by volunteering for a local startup, helping with market research and process improvement. She later completed a certification in management consulting and secured an internship with a top consulting firm. Now, at just 24, Ananya is working remotely with an international consultancy, advising clients across multiple countries on growth strategies and operational efficiency.
Job Market Pulse: Top Hiring Trends in Management Consulting Careers
So, what does the future really look like if you’re thinking of pursuing the job of a management consultant? Short answer: promising—and growing fast.
Who’s hiring?
- Fortune 500 companies need strategic consultants.
- High-growth startups seek critical thinkers.
- Both value clear communication and actionable insights.
Organizations are prioritizing strategic consulting. They’re not just looking for business graduates—they want professionals who can:
- Think critically
- Communicate effectively
- Deliver actionable insights to solve complex business challenges
The Growth Is Real
According to the Management Consultancies Association, the consulting industry in India is expected to grow over 12% annually in the next few years, creating significant opportunities for skilled consultants. Demand is expanding not only in corporate strategy but also in finance, operations, human capital, and technology advisory. (Source: Mordor Intelligence Report, 2020)
And it’s not just large corporations anymore.
What’s in Demand Right Now?
Based on what I’ve observed—and backed by hiring trends across job boards—companies are actively recruiting for roles like:
- Strategy & Operations Consultants: Analyse processes, optimise performance, and drive growth.
- Financial & Risk Advisors: Advise on investments, risk management, and compliance.
- Human Capital & Organizational Development Consultants: Guide workforce planning and change management.
- Technology & Digital Transformation Consultants: Help businesses implement tech solutions and improve operations.
- Public Sector & Policy Consultants: Support government or NGO projects with strategic guidance.
Most of these specialised consulting roles didn’t exist in this form a decade ago. That’s how rapidly the need for management consultants is growing—and how much opportunity exists right now.
Skill Gap = Career Advantage
Employers are struggling to find professionals with the right mix of analytical skills, client-facing abilities, and real-world experience—which makes students who prepare early all the more valuable.
Companies often mention how they needed someone who could analyse data, propose actionable strategies, and communicate solutions clearly. They ended up hiring a fresh graduate with just a couple of internships—but a solid understanding of consulting principles. Why? Because prepared talent was scarce, and demand was urgent.
This shortage means students who prepare early aren’t just getting jobs—they’re getting choice—the power to pick roles aligned with their personality, strengths, and values.
Key Insight: Companies are hiring fast—but only if you bring the right mix of analytical skills, problem-solving ability, and practical consulting experience.
So… How Do You Stand Out in the Management Consulting Job Market?
That’s exactly what we help you with at NextMovez.
How NextMovez Helps You Break Into a Management Consulting Career
We don’t just list career options—we help you create a clear, purpose-driven roadmap with support at every step.
Here’s how:
Personalized Career Mapping
We help you identify the management consulting roles that actually fit your strengths, interests, and future goals—whether that’s in strategy and operations, financial and risk advisory, human capital, or technology and digital transformation.
Mentors from the Field
Our mentors include professionals working in top consulting firms, startups, and global corporations. They don’t just give textbook answers—they share real-world advice about what’s working in consulting today.
Skill-Building Workshops
From business case analysis to financial modeling and client presentations, we run short-term courses and hands-on exercises that give you experience with real-world consulting challenges.
Strategic Prep
We guide you not just for your next internship—but to build a portfolio and skillset that will grow with you as the consulting landscape evolves.
Takeaway:
How do you know if consulting’s fast-paced demands align with your child’s strengths? Our coaches help uncover that answer.
We help you build a career that’s not just future-ready—but future-relevant.
If you’re serious about pursuing the job of a management consultant, now’s the time to act—because businesses won’t wait, and neither should your career.
In Conclusion
Still wondering if management consulting is the right path for your child?
Our expert career coaches use the Best-Fit Career Zone™ to map your child’s analytical strengths, problem-solving abilities, and personality traits to real consulting pathways—helping you make an informed, confident decision.
Because success isn’t about choosing the trendiest career—it’s about choosing the right one.
Let’s help your child explore the consulting world with clarity and direction.
