Becoming a consultant is a long-term process that requires dedication and hard work. It typically takes four years to complete a bachelor's degree, and those seeking graduate or MBA certificates may take anywhere from a few months to a few more years. To become a consultant, it takes seven years of professional experience to learn specific consulting skills. This does not include the time spent on formal education, so if you include normal education requirements, it takes 10 to 12 years to become a consultant.
Having a well-developed network, being self-directed, and having an impressive portfolio full of customer success stories can help you become a consultant faster. Most employers prefer a minimum of two years of consulting experience, but they may also want consultants to have experience working in an administration, accounting, or other business position. Some consultants may begin their careers in a company before bidding on their own on consulting projects. Most employers require management consultants to have at least bachelor's degrees, but some are looking for candidates with master's degrees.
To become a successful consultant, it is important to have the right qualifications and experience. With the right combination of education and experience, you can become a successful consultant in no time.
