Tell us about your job
Consulting, at its core, is about helping organizations solve their most complex and challenging problems. There are many phases in a project, but it always begins with understanding the client’s needs and ends with delivering the expert solution in the specific field. The day-to-day work as a consultant involves identifying the problem, conducting research, generating insights, and communicating the solution.
In today’s business landscape, the demand for mere high-level strategic advice is dwindling. In addition to providing advice, a crucial part of the job is supporting the clients in implementing these changes. This shift offers consultants the chance to delve deeper into the client’s circumstance and make a more concrete impact. Therefore, this job requires not only strong analytical skills and excellent interpersonal abilities but also the ability to present the findings in a persuasive manner and work closely with the clients to ensure the successful realization of the proposed improvements.
What’s your background?
I graduated from Columbia University with an undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering. Ever since middle school, I wanted to become an engineer, fueled by the prospect of constructing something meaningful. I soon found that most engineering projects spanned over several years and in search of a role that offered a more expansive and rapid influence, I was drawn to the dynamic field of consulting and joined Oliver Wyman last year.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Consulting is a field that welcomes and thrives on diversity. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with individuals from vastly different backgrounds, gaining valuable skill sets and perspectives from these interactions. The sphere of consulting values individuals who possess excellent capabilities in breaking down complex problems, identifying patterns, deriving insights, and communicating these findings effectively. Hence, to those considering a career in consulting, it is much more vital to prioritize the cultivation of relevant competencies and academic or cultural background should not be a concern.
What’s the coolest thing about your job?
The coolest thing about consulting is the opportunity for “continuous learning”. Consulting is rarely monotonous. We work on different projects, with different colleagues, for different clients and across different industries. The fast-paced nature also requires a consulting to become an expert in a sector within days. This constant change and diversity are unique to consulting and makes the job a particularly fulfilling career for intellectually curious individuals.
What three pieces of advice would you give to your younger self as a student?
Embrace failure as a learning opportunity. it’s important to cultivate a growth mindset, understanding that failure is not a setback but an integral part of the learning process. The fear of making mistakes can inhibit growth and limit one’s potential. Thus, we should embrace every failure as a lesson and see it as a steppingstone towards success.
Understand your priorities. The “impossible triangle” of social life, good grades, and sleep might seem unattainable, but it can be managed with a clear understanding of what’s most important to you at different times. To maximize productivity, it is essential to remain focused and dedicated to the task at hand, resisting any distraction that may arise.
Pursue passion over prestige. We are tempted to follow paths that are defined as “successful” by social standards. These paths usually promise things such as prestige and good pay. However, college is the best opportunity to seek out what truly excites you, and let that guide your educational and professional journey.
Tell us about your best moment at Oliver Wyman
One of my most cherished memories at Oliver Wyman transpired during the Greater China onsite in Sanya. During this gathering, I found myself wearing the hat of an event organizer, game planner, and auction host. This experience truly underlined the essence of being part of the Oliver Wyman family. The company does not merely employ you, but rather, it empowers you to contribute towards its growth.
Other standout moments have often been born from the projects we have undertaken. The camaraderie and unwavering support from colleagues, coupled with the acknowledgment and appreciation of our collective efforts by the team, have composed some of my most rewarding experiences in the organization.