Following the 101 Jobs to Work and Travel, here’s a little bonus for those that are or going to become consultants. If you’re interested in the intersection of consulting and travel, here’s a breakdown of consultant types most likely to travel, with explanations:
1. Management Consultants (Especially Strategy and Operations)
- Why they travel: These consultants are hired to solve complex business problems for organizations. This often requires them to be on-site with the client to:
- Conduct interviews and gather data
- Observe operations firsthand
- Facilitate workshops and meetings
- Implement solutions and provide training
- Travel frequency: Can be very high, often involving weekly travel to client sites, which can be domestic or international.
- Examples: Consultants at firms like McKinsey, Bain, BCG (the “MBB”), Deloitte, Accenture, etc.
2. Technology Consultants (Implementation and Systems Integration)
- Why they travel: When new software or IT systems are being implemented, consultants are often needed on-site to:
- Oversee the installation and configuration
- Provide training to client staff
- Troubleshoot issues and ensure a smooth transition
- Travel frequency: Varies depending on the project scope and duration, but can involve frequent travel, especially during critical phases of implementation.
- Examples: Consultants specializing in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle), CRM systems (Salesforce), or other enterprise software.
3. Environmental Consultants
- Why they travel: Environmental consultants often need to conduct fieldwork to:
- Assess environmental conditions
- Collect samples (soil, water, air)
- Conduct site inspections
- Oversee remediation projects
- Travel frequency: Depends on the nature of the projects, but can involve travel to remote locations or sites with environmental concerns.
4. Construction and Engineering Consultants
- Why they travel: These consultants often need to be on-site to:
- Oversee construction projects
- Inspect infrastructure
- Conduct site surveys
- Travel frequency: Can be significant, especially for large-scale projects or projects in remote locations.
5. International Development Consultants
- Why they travel: These consultants work on projects aimed at improving economic and social conditions in developing countries. This often requires them to:
- Conduct fieldwork and assessments
- Work with local communities and organizations
- Oversee project implementation
- Travel frequency: Often involves long-term assignments in different countries.
Factors that Influence Travel Frequency:
- Firm Size and Focus: Larger, global firms tend to have more international projects and thus more travel.
- Project Scope and Duration: Larger, longer-term projects often require more on-site presence.
- Client Location: Consultants working with clients in different cities or countries will naturally travel more.
- Consultant’s Role and Seniority: More senior consultants or those with specialized expertise may be in higher demand for on-site work.
Important Note: While travel can be a perk for some, it’s important to remember that it can also be demanding, involving long hours, time away from home, and frequent changes in routine.