So, you’ve graduated from university and are looking for a job in consulting? Well, firstly, congratulations! Finishing university is something you should be tremendously proud of. What comes next is what you’ve been studying towards all this time. Graduate consulting jobs open doors to a range of career paths, all with massive potential for professional and personal development.
Whether it’s management, strategy, IT, or finance, consulting roles offer flexibility, fast-paced growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about graduate consulting jobs in the UK, from the skills required to salary expectations, all the way through to the challenges you might face.
Let’s dive in.
Why Choose a Career in Consulting?
Some of you may not have studied consulting and are simply contemplating it as a career path. If that’s the case, let’s first go over some of the reasons why a career in consulting is a wise move.
Consulting has become one of the most popular career choices for graduates, and it’s not hard to see why. There’s a wide variety of work, and you’ll never get bored since every project and client brings new challenges. For many graduates, the chance to work across different industries – from technology and healthcare to finance and retail – is a huge draw.
Beyond the variety, consulting offers a fast track for career growth. You’ll be interacting with senior executives, solving complex problems, and making decisions that could shape the future of companies. This high level of responsibility, combined with the opportunity for continuous learning, makes it a rewarding career path.
And let’s not forget about the salaries. Graduate consulting jobs are known for being well-paid compared to many other industries. Most graduate schemes start between £30,000 and £40,000, with plenty of room for progression as you gain experience.
More on graduate schemes and salaries in a bit.
Key Skills Required for Graduate Consulting Jobs
You might be wondering what skills are necessary to land a role in consulting. While academic qualifications are important, consulting is a skill-driven industry. Graduates with strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills will thrive in this field.
Analytical skills are essential since you’ll spend a lot of time gathering data, identifying trends, and providing evidence-based recommendations to clients. The ability to think critically and draw insights from complex data is key across all sectors, including management consulting, IT consulting, and strategy consulting.
But it’s not all about numbers and data. Soft skills like communication and interpersonal skills are just as important. Consultants often work closely with clients, presenting findings, facilitating workshops, and leading discussions. It’s not just about having the right solution, but also being able to explain it clearly and persuasively to clients.
Additionally, consulting requires flexibility and adaptability. Every project will be different, and you’ll need to quickly get up to speed with new industries, markets, clients and their companies. Keeping a level head under pressure and managing tight deadlines is also a huge advantage in the fast-paced world of consulting.
👉 Bonus content: In-Demand Skills: What Employers Want
Types of Consulting Jobs Available for Graduates
There are various paths within the consulting industry, each with its own focus and specialities. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the most popular types of consulting jobs you might consider as a graduate:
- Management Consulting: This involves helping organisations improve their overall performance, be it through streamlining processes, cutting costs, or developing strategies for growth. It’s one of the most diverse forms of consulting, covering industries from retail to healthcare.
- Strategy Consulting: If you’re drawn to high-level decision-making, strategy consulting could be for you. This involves advising businesses on their long-term strategies, whether it’s entering new markets or adjusting to changing regulations.
- IT/Tech Consulting: As technology continues to evolve rapidly, the demand for tech consultants has grown significantly. IT consultants help businesses implement new systems, improve cybersecurity, and make the most of emerging tech like AI and blockchain.
- Financial Consulting: Financial consultants help organisations make smarter financial decisions, from managing investments to cutting operational costs. It’s ideal for graduates with a strong background in economics, accounting, or finance.
With so many options, the consulting industry has something to offer for everyone, regardless of your degree background.
Graduate Consulting Schemes and Their Benefits
Now, back to graduate schemes.
Many of the top consulting firms offer graduate schemes that are designed to bring new talent into the industry. These schemes provide structured training programmes and mentorship, ensuring that graduates develop the skills they need to excel in their roles.
All the big firms like McKinsey, Deloitte, PwC, EY, and BCG are known for their highly sought-after graduate schemes. These programmes typically last two to three years, during which you’ll work on a variety of projects across different industries. Not only do you get hands-on experience, but you’re also surrounded by industry experts who can guide your development.
Graduate schemes often come with plenty of perks, too. Beyond a competitive starting salary, you’ll likely receive benefits like performance bonuses and private healthcare. Many firms also provide opportunities to work abroad. This combination of training, mentorship, and financial reward makes consulting graduate schemes some of the most appealing options for new graduates.
👉 Bonus reading: Top 10 Graduate Schemes Hiring in the UK Right Now
Consulting Salary Expectations for Graduates
So, how much can you really expect to earn as a graduate in consulting? Quite a lot, actually. Salaries in the consulting industry are generally higher than in many other sectors, so it’s an attractive option for those looking to start their career on a strong financial footing.
Most graduates in consulting roles can expect a starting salary of between £30,000 and £40,000. Rothschilds, the highest-paid graduate scheme in the UK, offers a starting salary of £65,000.
These figures can vary depending on the size of the firm and its location – for example, firms based in London typically offer higher salaries to offset living costs.
As you progress in your career, salaries can increase significantly, especially if you move into more senior roles. Experienced consultants can earn upwards of £60,000 to £100,000 within just a few years.
On top of the base salary, many consulting firms offer performance-based bonuses, which can add a substantial amount to your earnings. Plus, there’s the potential for even higher salaries if you decide to specialise in a specific area of consulting or move into an executive-level role.
Challenges and Realities of Consulting for Graduates
While consulting can be an incredibly rewarding career, it’s not without its challenges. The nature of the work can be demanding, with long hours and tight deadlines being fairly common, especially during busy periods. It’s not uncommon for consultants to work well beyond the standard 9-5, particularly when preparing for client presentations or meeting project milestones.
Additionally, the travel involved in consulting can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, you’ll get the chance to visit new cities, meet clients from all over the world, and experience different work environments. On the other hand, frequent travel can make it difficult to maintain a work-life balance.
However, for those who thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy solving complex problems, these challenges can be part of the excitement. The key is to manage your time effectively and make sure to take breaks when needed.
Conclusion: Is Consulting Right for You?
Graduate consulting jobs offer an exciting blend of challenges, learning opportunities, and career progression. With strong starting salaries, diverse work experiences, and the chance to make an impact, it’s no wonder that consulting is one of the top choices for graduates in the UK.
If you’re someone who enjoys problem-solving, working with people, and thriving under pressure, consulting might just be the perfect fit for you.
Ready to explore your options? Check out the Developing a Student consulting jobs board for all the latest graduate opportunities in your area.
Need more support? Our resource hub is packed with useful information and career advice for graduates starting out on their career journey, including dedicated blogs on topics like How to Thrive in Your First Graduate Job and Confidence Tips For Recent Graduates.
Have a question? Feel free to contact our team. And finally, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter below for all the latest news and graduate consulting opportunities from Developing a Student.
