Are there any prior-enlisted Consultants, specifically Management Consultants, willing to share tips on making the transition?

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 07:57:54 -0500

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Dec 26 at 2016 10:56 AM

MAJ Byron Oyler — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 10:56:52 -0500

Transition to what?

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Dec 26 at 2016 12:21 PM

MCPO Roger Collins — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 12:21:17 -0500

In order to get the big bucks, experience and education are critical. During my 20 year career in private industry, I found that free advice by the employees, even though similar to paid consultants is viewed as more valuable. Mostly because the decision makers at the top need to justify the huge costs. Enlisted vs Commissioned Officer isn't the point. Unfortunately no short cuts.

Response by SP5 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2016 4:16 PM

SP5 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 16:16:33 -0500

PO2 Private RallyPoint MemberQuick personal background. I spent 10 years with Andersen Consulting and Accenture in a telecommunications network services business analysis and design role, using 30 years telecom background as a basis for employment. For you I have more questions than answers for the moment. Are you planning to consult in supply chain management or another field? What professional/academic/experience credentials do you bring to the table? Do you plan to be an independent consultant or to link up with an established consultancy, either a general consultancy or one with a specific discipline focus? Have you researched LinkedIn to see who is looking for people in your chosen field? Do you know any consultants or professionals in your field who you can use for research?

One suggestion - have a non-milspec resume put together, and reviewed by a trusted individual to be certain that your message is clear. Once your foot is in the door, remember that no consultant ever "solves" a customer's problems - the consultant provides SME guidance to the client so the client can take credit for the solution. Essentially, the customer has to solve his own problem in order for the solution to be implemented. Any outside solution faces an uphill battle for acceptance within the client institution due to inertia and suspicion.
Institutional joke - a consultant comes to a client from at least 200 miles awau, borrows the client's watch to tell the client what the time is, and keeps the watch.

Good luck in your efforts, and Happy New Year

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2016 10:46 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 10:46:25 -0500

Consultant is a vague term.

If u have degree and other ducks in line you can apply to one of the consulting firms.

Obtaining PMP, LSS or other certifications can help, but experience is going to seal the deal.

Good luck and look at the "consulting" positions and build your professional resume. See how your KSA's align and go from there. Good luck