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Hiring a former consultant sounds too good to be true, but is it?

In the dynamic world of business, hiring former consultants presents both opportunities and challenges for employers. Over the last couple of years, the job market has been tumultuous, with consultants facing both an overload of work and uncertain prospects due to market shifts. As employers navigate this landscape, understanding the potential advantages and drawbacks of hiring former consultants becomes crucial for making informed hiring decisions.

Navigating the Negatives

1. Potential Boredom

Former consultants might find the transition to a more static work environment challenging after being accustomed to the fast-paced nature of consulting. However, this can be mitigated by offering stimulating and diverse projects, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and providing opportunities for growth within the company.

2. Overconfidence and Knowledge Gap

While consultants bring expertise, some might exhibit overconfidence, attempting to address queries or configure systems without a thorough understanding. It's essential to encourage a collaborative environment that values learning and acknowledges the importance of fully grasping unfamiliar areas before making decisions.

3. Salary Expectations

Former consultants might have higher salary expectations due to their extensive experience and skill set. However, negotiation can be key here. Highlighting the value of long-term growth opportunities and a supportive work environment can sometimes offset purely monetary desires.

4. Moonlighting

Some might engage in moonlighting activities, working for other entities concurrently. While this isn't inherently problematic, ensure it doesn't hinder their performance or availability for the primary role.

5. Short Stints and Depth of Knowledge

A history of short projects might signal a tendency to get rolled off quickly, necessitating a closer examination of their skill depth and versatility. Probe their expertise across modules to ensure a comprehensive understanding rather than just surface-level knowledge.


Embracing the Positives

1. Extensive Knowledge Base

Experienced consultants possess a wealth of knowledge, particularly in optimizing platforms like Salesforce or navigating complex ecosystems such as SAP. Finding a seasoned consultant can be invaluable for businesses seeking expertise in these areas.

2. Networking Opportunities

Former consultants often maintain professional connections, offering access to a network of talented individuals who can contribute to projects when needed. Leveraging these connections can streamline project work and bring in specialized skills when required.

3. Work Ethic and Dedication

Consultants are known for their dedication and willingness to put in extra hours to achieve project success. This commitment can be advantageous in meeting tight deadlines or handling demanding projects.

4. Strong Pedigree and Development Potential

Candidates from reputable consulting firms like Accenture, Deloitte, McKinsey, or BCG often possess strong foundational skills and exposure to diverse projects. While they might lack deep technical expertise, they can be groomed and developed within the organization.

5. Technical Expertise and Room for Growth

Some consultants excel in technical skills but might require polishing in soft skills like presentations or relationship building. Identifying these individuals offers an opportunity for growth and development within the company.

Hiring former consultants presents a spectrum of advantages and challenges. While their expertise and work ethic can greatly benefit a company, potential issues like overconfidence or short project stints require careful consideration.

Employers must adopt a nuanced approach, conducting thorough assessments, valuing diverse skill sets, and providing an environment that fosters growth and continuous learning. Leveraging the strengths while addressing the weaknesses can lead to successful integration and long-term contributions from former consultants within the organization.

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