S16E20: Pay is flat, hiring is up: the 5 forces shaping consulting in 2025
Feb 7, 2025
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Consulting salaries are frozen, yet hiring is on the rise. The discussion reveals the surprising dynamics driving these trends. AI is transforming operations and workforce strategies in the industry. The focus has shifted from entry-level credentials to practical skills. Insights on revenue growth suggest that the future is bright for adaptable consultants. Top firms are revising hiring practices to attract talent effectively. Join in for valuable tips on enhancing your job prospects and navigating complex career paths.
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Quick takeaways
Despite stagnant starting salaries in consulting for 2025, increased demand for services indicates a competitive hiring environment for candidates.
Specific sectors such as supply chain management and healthcare are driving consulting demand, creating greater opportunities for job seekers targeting these fields.
Shifts in hiring focus from MBAs to undergraduates and specialized master's graduates reflect evolving strategies within firms, necessitating enhanced training for new hires.
Deep dives
Overview of Consulting Compensation Trends
Consulting starting salaries have remained static for offers beginning in 2025, despite an increase in the demand for consulting services. The podcast highlights that this stagnation is due to an oversupply of talent in the job market, advancements in artificial intelligence allowing for greater productivity with smaller teams, and decreased attrition rates within firms. Consequently, the competitive landscape has intensified, with job seekers facing the toughest recruiting cycle in recent years. This means that candidates entering the workforce must be aware of the implications for their earning power and job prospects.
Shifts in Hiring Trends and Sector Demand
Demand for consulting services has surged in specific sectors like supply chain management, healthcare, and cloud services, driven by companies adapting to geopolitical shifts and advancing technology. With numerous consulting firms busy helping clients navigate these changes, firms also see increased utilization rates among current consultants, which compels them to recruit new talent. Additionally, the podcast emphasizes that candidates who target these high-demand areas will have greater success in their job searches. As companies restructure their operations, consulting firms are at the forefront of implementing strategic solutions.
Variable Compensation and Non-Financial Perks
Consulting firms have adjusted their variable compensation structures, impacting how candidates evaluate job offers. While some firms have increased their maximum variable compensation, many consultants may never receive these maximum amounts, which can mislead prospective hires into favoring offers based solely on total compensation. Non-financial perks, including additional training opportunities, wellness programs, and remote working accommodations, have gained traction as firms strive to retain talent and enhance employee satisfaction. The emphasis on such benefits reflects a broader shift in how consulting firms are prioritizing culture and work-life balance.
The Evolving Role of MBAs in Consulting
There is a noticeable decline in MBA hiring among consulting firms, which has led to a more significant focus on hiring undergraduates and individuals with specialized master's degrees. This shift arises from the perception that MBAs do not necessarily double productivity compared to undergraduate hires, as both groups perform similar tasks initially. The podcast points out that these changes necessitate a more robust training and development structure within firms, which must invest in their younger workforce to foster talent and enhance retention. This evolution in firm hiring strategies opens new opportunities for candidates who may have previously focused solely on traditional MBA routes.
In-House Strategy Alternatives and Industry Outlook
The growth of in-house strategy teams within Fortune 500 companies presents a viable alternative to traditional consulting careers. These positions offer candidates the chance to engage directly with senior leadership while executing impactful projects, albeit within a specific industry context. However, for those who seek diverse experiences across multiple sectors, consulting remains preferable due to its rotational opportunities. The podcast concludes with a positive outlook for the consulting industry, anticipating continued growth alongside evolving hiring practices and increasing demand for consulting services.