Hey folks, I really need some honest input here.
I started with a media studies degree and worked in broadcasting for about 2.5 years. Now I’m in the tech industry doing customer success, client onboarding, and digital advertising work. Lately I’ve been thinking hard about whether my current path matches who I am and what I’m good at.
I keep coming back to management consulting as a possibility. I’m always the person trying to solve problems at work and at home. Every company I’ve been with has had obvious bottlenecks and broken processes, and I can’t help but think of ways to streamline things. I especially care about making work better for entry level employees who deal with the worst of these inefficiencies.
The thing is, I don’t have an MBA or traditional consulting background. I’m not sure if my current experience would translate or if firms would even consider someone like me.
Has anyone made a similar transition? What would you recommend for figuring out if this field is actually right for me? Are there specific steps I should take - maybe certain courses, networking events, or entry level positions that could help me test the waters?
I’d appreciate any thoughts you have. Thanks!
I switched from healthcare admin to consulting three years ago - sounds exactly like what you’re going through! Pro bono work with local nonprofits saved me. Got a real feel for the daily grind without jumping in headfirst. Your tech and customer success background? That’s pure gold right now. Firms are scrambling for people who actually get digital transformation from the trenches. Hit up boutique firms first - they’re way more open to different backgrounds than the big players.
Your problem-solving skills and process improvement background are exactly what consulting firms want! Honestly, many value diverse experience more than the typical MBA route. Hit up some consultants on LinkedIn for coffee chats - they usually love talking shop. You’ve got this!
Your concern makes total sense, but flip your perspective - you’re not at a disadvantage, you’re uniquely positioned. Consulting has changed. Firms now want industry experience over traditional credentials. Your media and tech background gives you context that pure strategy consultants don’t have when they work with similar clients.
Before you jump in, try case study practice groups or PrepLounge. You’ll quickly figure out if you actually enjoy the analytical work and structured problem-solving that consulting demands. Also consider project-based work through Catalant or Eden McCallum to see if you can handle the constant variability and pressure.
Your digital advertising and customer success experience is gold right now. Most consulting work revolves around digital transformation and customer experience. Focus on showing how your frontline experience with broken processes translates into solid recommendations for C-suite executives.
Honestly, you don’t need an MBA anymore - that’s outdated thinkin. I know tons of consultants from completely random backgrounds. Hit up smaller consulting firms in your area since they’re way more flexibile with hiring. Also check out implementation consulting with your tech background - decent pay and much easier to break into than strategy.