Strategy consulting is often seen as a dream job, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare. Life as a consultant can be incredibly stressful, with long working hours, constant travel, and the pressure to perform. It's not a 9-to-5 job, and you'll have to create your own work structures and be responsible for your impact. You'll be expected to spend a lot of time away from home, and your co-workers may become your only friends.
As a junior consultant, you'll have to learn quickly and do all the hard work. Plus, you may only stay in the job for 2-4 years before looking for a new challenge. But it's not all bad news. You can design your work to a large extent, and you'll gain valuable transferable skills such as problem solving, communication, and leadership.
You can also use consulting as an opportunity to explore other industries with internships and even be hired by the same company. Plus, you can work for a responsible consultant and develop a legitimate professional career while enjoying the nuances of business life. So is strategy consulting stressful? Yes, it can be. But with the right attitude and approach, you can make the most of it and gain valuable experience.
