Overseas Management Consulting Advice
Today we conclude the second part of our two part discussion of the key questions in International Management Consulting.
An International Consultant’s Lifestyle
First: What benefits and perks can one expect when working abroad? For example, what salary, housing, and so on are usual?
In general, you will have benefits that are fairly similar to those you would consider to be standard consulting perks in the US. You will be able to attend fashionable team and firm events, travel stylishly, and have an expense account.
On the other hand, your bonuses and pay will probably be less than you would receive in the US. There may be fewer perks. For example, most McKinsey offices in Asia don’t give their junior consultants Blackberries. You must reach Engagement Manager level before you get one.
If you are hired in the United States and relocate to your job, your international hire status will bring you some relocation benefits. For example, you might get a larger relocation bonus and be housed temporarily. Aside from that, your benefits would be the same as the locally hired consultants.
2. What kind of lifestyle can you expect? What hours will you work? What kind of social life is there?
This is very much dependent upon the country and the office you end up in. In Japan, Korea, and China, you will work harder. In Argentina, Mexico, and Brazil, you will have a shorter work day.
Be sure to research the cultural issues that exist in every country and every office. You will avoid embarrassing and problematic errors by doing so. For example, you will want to be aware that it is illegal to purchase alcohol in Saudi Arabia, if you are considering going there.
Click here for the guide to management consulting CV and resumes.
What Are the Duties an International Consultant Can Expect?
1. Is the work different from that of a US consultant? Is the responsibility greater or less?
When considering consulting overseas, you will find that there are basically two categories. You might consult in a developed country like Japan or perhaps Western Europe, or you might consult in an emerging economy, like the Czech Republic or Vietnam.
If you go to a developed country, your job will be very similar to that of a US consultant. Your client base and the industries you would deal with might differ. The strengths and reputation of your firm might play a different role.
In an emerging economy, your work might differ for several of reasons:
* Less sophistication among your clients.
* A variety of quality and experience where your partners and principals are concerned.
* Limited resources in your local office.
That wraps up our tour of overseas management consultant lifestyle and salary. If you have more questions about consulting abroad, please post them here, and I will update the article!
