Life After Consulting: The Evolving Career Paths for Consultants

My recent poll exploring preferred exit options for consultants revealed intriguing insights:

• 17% aim to start their own venture.

• 23% prefer joining a startup or scale-up.

• 32% are eyeing opportunities in private equity (PE) or venture capital (VC).

• 29% still favor the stability of a large corporation.

These results indicate a noticeable shift in career preferences, with an increasing number of consultants opting for entrepreneurial and investment-focused paths over traditional corporate roles. Let’s take a closer look at each of these career directions and what they offer.

1. Building Your Own Startup (17%)

The entrepreneurial itch is stronger than ever among former consultants. Armed with strategic problem-solving skills, market analysis expertise, and a vast professional network, many consultants are choosing to start their own businesses.

Why this path appeals:

• The thrill of building something from scratch and the potential for high rewards.

• Autonomy and the opportunity to implement strategies without corporate bureaucracy.

• Leveraging consulting experience to identify gaps in the market and create innovative solutions.

However, starting a business comes with high risks, financial uncertainty, and a steep learning curve that goes beyond strategy into operations, marketing, and finance.

2. Joining a Startup or Scale-Up (23%)

For those who seek the excitement of entrepreneurship without the risks of starting from zero, joining a startup or scale-up has become an increasingly attractive option. Many consultants are transitioning into operational leadership roles such as COO, Head of Strategy, or Chief of Staff, where they can make a tangible impact on growth.

Why consultants are drawn to startups:

• Dynamic work environments with a steep learning curve.

• Opportunities to wear multiple hats and contribute to rapid scaling.

• A chance to be part of something innovative and disruptive.

Working in a startup, however, often demands a shift from structured consulting frameworks to agile, fast-paced execution—an adjustment that may not suit everyone.

3. Moving into Private Equity / Venture Capital (32%)

The top choice among respondents, the transition to PE/VC roles, is a natural fit for consultants with a knack for financial analysis, due diligence, and strategic growth planning. PE and VC firms highly value the analytical rigor and strategic thinking that consultants bring to the table.

What makes PE/VC attractive:

• High exposure to business transformations and deal-making.

• Opportunities to work with multiple portfolio companies and industries.

• Lucrative compensation structures based on performance and value creation.

The challenge lies in the competitive nature of the industry and the need to develop investment acumen beyond pure strategic insights.

4. Transitioning to a Large Corporation (29%)

Despite emerging trends, a significant portion of consultants still see value in transitioning to large corporations. These roles offer stability, career progression, and the opportunity to shape long-term strategies in a structured environment.

Why large corporations remain a popular choice:

• Structured career development programs and a clear growth trajectory.

• Work-life balance compared to consulting's demanding lifestyle.

• Exposure to large-scale operations, offering a broader scope of impact.

However, the shift from the dynamic consulting environment to corporate structures can sometimes feel slow-moving and bureaucratic.

Choosing the Right Path After Consulting

The best exit strategy depends on individual career goals, risk tolerance, and personal interests. Some consultants thrive in the high-energy world of startups, while others prefer the calculated approach of PE/VC or the stability of established corporations.

As consulting continues to evolve, so do the career aspirations of those within the industry. One thing is clear—life after consulting no longer follows a single trajectory, and the possibilities are more diverse than ever.

#Consulting #CareerChange #Entrepreneurship #PrivateEquity #Startups #Strategy #BusinessGrowth