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Job outlook for business transformation consultants in the United States
Are business transformation consultant jobs in demand?
Business transformation consultant job and salary trends over time
Business transformation consultant jobs over time
Business transformation consultant job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1,765 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 1,686 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 1,630 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 1,572 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 1,514 | 0.00% |
Average business transformation consultant salary over time
Business transformation consultant salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $97,591 | $46.92 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $94,919 | $45.63 | +2.0% |
| 2023 | $93,082 | $44.75 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $91,791 | $44.13 | +1.4% |
| 2021 | $90,544 | $43.53 | +0.0% |
Business transformation consultant jobs by state
Most common states for business transformation consultants
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 550 | 79% |
| 2 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 278 | 32% |
| 3 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 314 | 30% |
| 4 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 899 | 29% |
| 5 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 497 | 26% |
| 6 | Alaska | 739,795 | 180 | 24% |
| 7 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 651 | 22% |
| 8 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 655 | 21% |
| 9 | Vermont | 623,657 | 134 | 21% |
| 10 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 1,221 | 20% |
| 11 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 971 | 20% |
| 12 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,318 | 19% |
| 13 | Arkansas | 3,004,279 | 556 | 19% |
| 14 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 249 | 19% |
| 15 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 197 | 19% |
| 16 | Wisconsin | 5,795,483 | 1,071 | 18% |
| 17 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 347 | 17% |
| 18 | Delaware | 961,939 | 162 | 17% |
| 19 | Oklahoma | 3,930,864 | 625 | 16% |
| 20 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 478 | 16% |
Most common cities for business transformation consultants
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fairfax | 1 | 4% | $104,997 |
| 2 | Montgomery Village | 1 | 3% | $107,207 |
| 3 | Olney | 1 | 3% | $107,264 |
| 4 | McLean | 1 | 2% | $105,004 |
| 5 | Washington | 10 | 1% | $107,285 |
| 6 | Atlanta | 4 | 1% | $93,106 |
| 7 | Gaithersburg | 1 | 1% | $107,216 |
| 8 | Lansing | 1 | 1% | $90,842 |
| 9 | Chicago | 4 | 0% | $87,308 |
| 10 | Boston | 2 | 0% | $99,143 |
| 11 | Minneapolis | 2 | 0% | $84,401 |
Business Transformation Consultant job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of business transformation consultant experts
Davidson College
University of West Florida
Lewis-Clark State College
Illinois Wesleyan University
Xavier University
University of North Florida
Coastal Carolina University
Florida State University
UMass Lowell
University of Nevada, Reno
Lasell University
Bucknell University
Kent State University
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
University of Central Missouri
University of Arizona
Ohio Wesleyan University
Drexel University
Bay Path University
Saint Peter's University
Katie Horowitz
Associate Professor of Gender & Sexuality StudiesDavidson College
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, And Group Studies
What general advice would you give to a Business Transformation Consultant?
Katie Horowitz: With the rise of artificial intelligence, soft skills like interpersonal communication, conflict management, and critical thinking will become more important than ever before. These are assets that can’t be outsourced to AI, and they are fundamental to the work that Gender & Sexuality Studies majors do in college.
What will help Business Transformation Consultants increase their earning potential?
Katie Horowitz: Don’t limit yourself. I’ve seen Gender & Sexuality Studies students land jobs in business consulting, nonprofit, medicine, law, and more. The beauty of this interdisciplinary field is that it intersects with virtually every sphere of human existence. You can bring your GSS skills to bear on any line of work that interests you.
What general advice would you give to a Business Transformation Consultant?
Dr. Haris Alibašić Ph.D., MPA: My general advice is that embarking on a career in business or any other field demands a blend of practical skills, adaptability, and a continuous learning mindset. Graduates should prioritize the following strategies, including but not limited to: - Building a Strong Foundation of Business Fundamentals, including core business principles, finance, marketing, operations, and strategy to facilitate adaptability to changing markets. - Cultivating a growth mindset, embracing challenges, viewing failures as learning opportunities, cultivating resilience, and a willingness to step out of one's comfort zone. - Networking and building relationships with peers, mentors, and industry professionals open doors to opportunities and provide invaluable insights and guidance. - Staying informed of industry trends as the business landscape constantly evolves, which is obvious with the recent trend of expanded use of AI and ML.
What will help Business Transformation Consultants increase their earning potential?
Dr. Haris Alibašić Ph.D., MPA: "In the next 3-5 years, specific skills are poised to become increasingly important in business: Data Literacy, Digital Proficiency, Emotional Intelligence, Sustainability, Resilience, and Social Responsibility. However, the most necessary lasting skill that benefited my career is Effective Communication. Being able to communicate effectively is an indispensable skill."
What Business Transformation Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Haris Alibašić Ph.D., MPA: To maximize salary potential early in their careers, graduates should consider the following strategies: Specialize in High-Demand Areas, Never Stop Learning/Pursue Additional Education, Negotiate Offers, and Seek Mentorship and Constructive Feedback."
What skills stand out on Business Transformation Consultant resumes?
Jenny Scott: -Relevant industry experience (for SR Business Consultant: 10 years)
-Project management
-Strategic Planning
-Team and Executive Leadership
What soft skills should all Business Transformation Consultants possess?
Jenny Scott: Emotional Intelligence is #1. The saying goes, "IQ gets you hired; EQ gets you promoted." Those that have a high level of emotional intelligence are able to first manage their own emotions and then the ability to manage the emotions of those they lead/supervise. It involves a combination of the practice of the four components of Emotional Intelligence: Self-awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, and Relationship Management. With workplace emotions running rampant in today's world, having a leader that can help manage those effectively will create and cultivate a calming and viable work environment.
Culture "fit" is also more important than some may think. While some may meet all qualifications of the job and can effectively do the job itself, how a person "fits" with the company culture is more important. Consider the company's core values, mission, and vision and whether that aligns with your own.
Critical thinking should never be underestimated. Depending on the amount of time allowed to make a decision or think through a strategy, apply critical thinking skills to consider all options and potential consequences. Consider varying perspectives and what route and outcome will aid in attaining the organization's goals and carrying out its mission.
Listening to the needs and desires of the organization or the project. Valuing some dissension and not total conformity leads to a highly cohesive team/organization.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Business Transformation Consultants?
Jenny Scott: Consulting requires knowing the job itself, so industry experience is paramount.
Both "big picture/systems" thinking, as well as the ability to identify and understand details (analytical skills), is key skill in business consulting.
Don't forget the value of written communication skills. With fewer in-person meetings, being able to professionally, succinctly, and effectively write is one of the most coveted and essential skills.
Presentation skills are still - if not more - important today. Being familiar with a variety of presentation tools and platforms can be helpful; however, finding one or a few where you can be highly proficient will help achieve both efficiencies of communications, message delivery, and desired outcome.
What skills will help Business Transformation Consultants earn the most?
Jenny Scott: -Emotional Intelligence
-Relevant industry experience (expertise)
-Written and oral presentation communication
-Ability to relate and connect . . .the best strategy in the world will live on paper only if the leader is not able to relate to their people (all stakeholder groups) and connect. Leadership involves three key elements: People - Influence - Goals. The most effective leaders are able to ethically influence their followers for the purpose of attaining the organization's mission and goals.
Carmela Ferradáns Ph.D.
Professor of Hispanic StudiesIllinois Wesleyan University
Hispanic Studies Department
What soft skills should all Business Transformation Consultants possess?
Carmela Ferradáns Ph.D.: Communication, problem-solving, self-reliance.
Mike Halloran
Teaching Professor, Management and Entrepreneurship, Taskforce Member, Center for InnovationXavier University
Management Department
What skills stand out on Business Transformation Consultant resumes?
Mike Halloran: -In today's economy, I think there are a number of key skills that a business management consultant should have, especially if working with a small business. Key skillsets/coursework in finance, marketing, and strategy is essential. In addition, I would recommend coursework in Innovation as today's business world continues to evolve so quickly.
-I would also suggest that experiential learning and/or internships are very important to success. Showing demonstrated experience is a great way to stand out in the job market, as well as give yourself and the employer confidence that you can apply what you have learned in school.
-I often can look at a student's LinkedIn profile and tell whether they have the skills and experience-based upon how well they market themselves, describe their experiences, and talk about career objectives
What hard/technical skills are most important for Business Transformation Consultants?
Mike Halloran: Excel
-Digital communication
-Budget management
What skills will help Business Transformation Consultants earn the most?
Mike Halloran: -Database analytics
-Digital marketing
-Finance
-Technological innovation
Russell Triplett Ph.D.
Interim Chair and Associate ProfessorUniversity of North Florida
Department of Economics and Geography
What skills stand out on Business Transformation Consultant resumes?
Russell Triplett Ph.D.: We must acknowledge that the pandemic remains a fluid situation with many implications that are not yet easily observed. That said, I see three key trends that are characteristic of our most successful students. First, the shift to remote working situations challenges employers to develop new ways to build teams and foster teamwork. Graduates that are well-prepared to collaborate and contribute in non-traditional ways are in high demand. Second, the pandemic accelerated the growth in platform-based delivery and retail services, generating a need for strong skills in data and business analytics. Third, it has always been true that graduates who are versatile and can think critically about the status quo are especially valuable; the shock of the pandemic created a more fertile ground for creative problem solvers and innovators.
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Finance and EconomicsCoastal Carolina University
Finance and Economics Department
What skills stand out on Business Transformation Consultant resumes?
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.: Problem-solving, Creative thinking, Data Analytics, Competitive Strategies, Communication, Leadership and Team Building, Decision making.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Business Transformation Consultants?
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.: Computer skills: Word Processing (MS Word), Spreadsheets (MS Excel), Visual Communication (MS PowerPoint, Prezi, etc.), Database Management (MS Access, SQL, Oracle, etc.), Graphics, Social Media.
Technical skills: Statistical Software(s) (R, SAS, MATLAB, etc.), GIS software(s) (ArcGIS, Tableau, etc.), Python Programming, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Coding Language(s) (HTML, C++, Javascript, etc.).
Management skills: Project Management, Business Analysis, Accounting, Economics and Finance, Management and Decision Sciences, Operations Research, Marketing and Sales, Supply Chain, Human Resources, Office Management, Planning, Logistics, Agile software, Scrum management.
Marketing skills: Affiliate Marketing, Marketing Research, and Analytics, Search Engine Optimization, Social Media Marketing.
Analytical skills: Data Science, Data Mining, Database Management, Statistics and Econometrics, Analytics and Reasoning, Research, Testing, and Diagnostics.
Writing skills: Research and Report Writing, Editing, Content Management Systems, Social media updates.
Design skills: Adobe Creative Suite (Acrobat, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.), User Experience (UX) Design, Digital Product Design, Video Production.
What skills will help Business Transformation Consultants earn the most?
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.: Discipline related expertise, Industry-specific certification, Data Science and Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Project Management, Mobile Application Development, Software Programming, and Testing, Leadership and People Management, Digital (Social Media) Marketing, User Experience (UX) Design, Content Creation and Open Learning Resources.
What's a common interview question, and would you prepare to answer it?
One of the most common interview questions is "Why are you interested in this position?"
By asking this question, your employer tries to understand that you have a true connection to the company and a passion for the job you have applied for. You should start your answer by explaining why you are the best-fit candidate in terms of professional skills. Research about the organization's culture before your interview and articulate how you embrace that mission personally and add values towards that mission. Show your enthusiasm and confidence while answering the interview questions.
What soft skills should all Business Transformation Consultants possess?
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.: Creative thinking, Leadership, Adaptability, Communication, Empathy, Conflict Resolution, Work Ethic.
C. Darren Brooks Ph.D.
Assistant Department Chair and Executive Director, Center for Human Resource ManagementFlorida State University
Department of Management and the Center for Human Resource Management
What soft skills should all Business Transformation Consultants possess?
C. Darren Brooks Ph.D.: While advancements in technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics occupy center stage in many areas of management practice, soft skills continue to be seen as equally or even more important skills for success in the field of management. Soft skills are typically described as personal attributes, qualities, and characteristics that enable us to interact more effectively with others. In most fields of management, our ability to communicate, work with, and interact with other people constitutes a significant portion of the work we do. Consequently, employers are focused on identifying candidates who possess strong skills are areas of communication (verbal, written, and non-verbal), leadership and followership, collaboration, an ability to work in teams, intellectual curiosity, adaptability, conflict management, problem-solving, creativity.
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator, Masters of Science in EntrepreneurshipUMass Lowell
Department of Marketing, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
What skills stand out on Business Transformation Consultant resumes?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: If we are talking about personal skills, I would stress skills that reflect an entrepreneurial mindset, such as innovativeness and initiative. I would also emphasize as much as possible prior experience in the relevant area.
What soft skills should all Business Transformation Consultants possess?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: In addition to the above, in today's environment, it is important that people are adept at improvising. For long-term career success in any field, sound leadership skills are critical. It is important to be able to formulate, communicate and execute a compelling vision for where you want to take your organization.
What skills will help Business Transformation Consultants earn the most?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: Although certain careers will pay more on average than others (and this discrepancy can be significant and should not be discounted, especially if a student is taking on debt to pursue an education), I strongly feel that people are best off in the long run if they stay authentic to who they are and what they are passionate about.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Business Transformation Consultants?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: Many people would consider communication a "soft" skill, but there is a technical aspect of it that is overlooked. Programming and data analytics are probably the most marketable skills right now.
Jim McClenahan
Director of Career and Corporate OutreachUniversity of Nevada, Reno
College of Business
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Transformation Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Jim McClenahan: Rethinking work locations. Companies may recruit in areas that have lots of talent, cheaper cost of living and better quality of life. As an example, Incline Village is a small community on Lake Tahoe about 40 minutes from our campus. Every store is packed and the traffic is worse than any holiday weekend. Silicon Valley companies (about 4 hours away) have seen lots of people "temporarily relocate" to Lake Tahoe from the Bay Area. Now that some companies have permanently moved to at least a portion of their workforce as "work anywhere," communities like Reno, Boise, Missoula-ones with lower cost of living and better quality of life compared to the Bay Area may experience a mini-boom. It's already happening more in Reno.
The best candidates will be "swiss army knives." They have lots of different skillsets and with the flexibility everyone has demonstrated during the pandemic knowing how to do a lot of different things allows organizations to run a little leaner. Someone told me I was the ultimate "utility infielder" last week which I took as a high compliment! I think mastering lots of different skills is a key to employability for the candidate and success for the organization.
Finally, I expect small business hiring to be a mixed bag. Some are doing very well and expanding. Many others are struggling to survive and waiting to see how quickly lockdowns end and business returns before they start hiring.
What skills stand out on Business Transformation Consultant resumes?
Jim McClenahan: Most importantly, skills that are customized for the job you are applying. Someone could work in a restaurant and have great customer management skills that would work well in a bank. The key is identifying "transferrable skills"-how what you did is relevant for the job you are applying. The applicant has to articulate that-don't expect the committee, screener, or HR Recruiter to make the connections. For business majors, the skills that differentiate applicants are technical skills when they are relevant to the job. Data analysis, coding, SQL are often looked for by employers that have a tech focus as preferred skills.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Business Transformation Consultants to find work opportunities?
Jim McClenahan: The trend of great opportunities consolidating in major metropolitan areas seems to be reversing. With working remotely appearing to be a permanent feature/benefit, find a place to live that offers a lower cost and great quality of life for you and your family! Build a variety of skills and achievements in different areas and find the right culture that matches your skills.
Dr. Brian Wardyga
Professor of Communication; General Manager, 109.2FM WLAS & LCTVLasell University
School of Communication and The Arts
What skills stand out on Business Transformation Consultant resumes?
Dr. Brian Wardyga: Today's business consultant should be able to showcase skills in project management, business strategy & outlook, and supply chain management & optimization. Evidence of collaboration & teamwork is also a big plus.
Within these constructs, one should identify key technical skills, evidence of decision making & critical thinking, verbal and written communication skills, and creative thinking or problem-solving examples. Lastly, evidence of working in focus groups and leading workshops or presentations are also standouts.
What soft skills should all Business Transformation Consultants possess?
Dr. Brian Wardyga: Most important soft skills include organization and time management, thinking conceptually and practically, being concise and to the point, and exhibiting common courtesy and professionalism. Flexibility, curiosity, and the desire to work as a team are also important--strong communication skills.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Business Transformation Consultants?
Dr. Brian Wardyga: Technical skills such as accounting and project management and other computer skills demanded by the particular market. Beyond typical Microsoft Office skills would be Analytical software and marketing and presentation skills/tools.
What skills will help Business Transformation Consultants earn the most?
Dr. Brian Wardyga: That answer is dependent on the specific market, really. Any combination of the above and the more of those skills, the better chance at negotiating higher earnings.
Neil Boyd Ph.D.
David J. & Deborah West Professor of Management; Chair, Management and Organizations DepartmentBucknell University
Management and Organizations Department
What skills stand out on Business Transformation Consultant resumes?
Neil Boyd Ph.D.: Previous consulting experience, whether it is early exposure during management consulting courses and experiential learning in college or via professional project exposure, is very helpful for understanding the obvious and nuanced issues in consulting. I've found that technical skills like project management, statistical analysis, and others are important, but most important are the so-called "soft skills" and the ability to connect with humans in a way that they know you are there to help. When talking to early-career consultants, I'm most impressed when they discuss the psychological considerations of running an opening meeting with a client or how they handled a murky situation through conversation instead of functional answers about survey design or billable hours.
What soft skills should all Business Transformation Consultants possess?
Neil Boyd Ph.D.: Humility, empathy, integrity, emotional intelligence, a concern for others, a desire to create community at work, a concern for social and environmental justice.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Business Transformation Consultants?
Neil Boyd Ph.D.: Project management, understanding and using concepts, models, and theory from management science, analytics, excel/SPSS/R, Powerpoint/Google Slides.
What skills will help Business Transformation Consultants earn the most?
Neil Boyd Ph.D.: A combination of hard and soft skills, but at the end of the day, soft skills are critical to truly helping clients. And, for sure, they can be learned. This is a challenge for management education, but places like the Freeman College of Management at Bucknell work hard to develop soft skills in students primarily through coaching, experiential and community-based pedagogies, and professional development programming.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Business Transformation Consultants?
Michael Ellis Ph.D.: Most economics undergraduates obtain jobs as analysts, especially in the financial and non-financial business industries, because of their skills in analyzing data. The pre-coronavirus pandemic trend of increasing job opportunities for those who can analyze data will not be reversed by the pandemic and in fact may increase the growth of such job opportunities.
What will help Business Transformation Consultants increase their earning potential?
Michael Ellis Ph.D.: It is important to continue learning throughout one's career as changes in industry and technology occur. This will promote career advancement and increase earning potential.
Dr. Dianne Welsh
Hayes Distinguished Professor, Founding Director Entrepreneurship Cross-Disciplinary ProgramThe University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Department of Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality & Tourism
What's a day at work look like for a Business Transformation Consultant?
Dr. Dianne Welsh: For entrepreneurs, a day at work is going to be anything but routine. We teach how to "pivot" and look for opportunities out of any situation. That's what they'll be looking for each day while keeping up with the routine work.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Business Transformation Consultants?
Dr. Dianne Welsh: I believe all students will feel an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic from the perspective of knowing that one should be ready for anything, no matter when, no matter where. We teach this in entrepreneurship and it is the best degree to teach flexibility and dealing with ambiguity-the unknown. We teach how to "pivot" and look for opportunities out of any situation.
What will help Business Transformation Consultants increase their earning potential?
Dr. Dianne Welsh: Finding opportunities that evolve in a myriad of situations. These can be while a graduate in entrepreneurship works for a small/medium enterprise, a non-profit, or a larger company or even themselves. All businesses need entrepreneurs which is "to be creative and innovative in anything that creates value" (Welsh 2014). From my book Creative Cross-Disciplinary Entrepreneurship (Palgrave-Macmillan). Entrepreneurs are needed in every organization. By finding opportunities, bringing them to the attention of companies or individuals, or pursuing the opportunity themselves, an entrepreneur increases their earning potential. Finding opportunities is a daily endeavor.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Transformation Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Dan Jensen: There will be a combination of opportunities and losses across the next 3-5 years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many industries will find it difficult to recover such as hospitality (hotels, restaurants, etc.), entertainment (movie theatres, night clubs, casinos, etc.), manufacturing, and educational services. But many industries and career pathways are opening up because of the use of online technologies. Positions that include remote work that leverage technology will remain and probably increase across time. Supply chain, project management, eCommerce, computer science, data science ("big data"), digital content, and artificial intelligence specialists will continue to increasingly be in demand. The healthcare industry has been in flux because of increasing costs but will emerge on the other side of the pandemic with opportunities for nurses, healthcare support staff, and related technologies (e.g., the "electronic healthcare record"). Irrespective of the pandemic, careers in sales or customer relationship management (CRM) will continue to be a popular launching point for recent college graduates.
The recruitment/hiring process is likely to become much longer than in the past and will rely on virtual interviews instead of face-to-face. With a high unemployment rate, it will be more difficult for younger, less experienced candidates to get hired. This is not great news for recent college graduates, but all is not lost.
Networking has always been the number one way that people find work opportunities. The skill is more important than ever. My recommended approach is to: identify a list of companies where you would like to work; research job postings within the company (and apply!) while simultaneously identifying contacts at the company (LinkedIn is a great tool to do this); then reaching out to contacts by using your existing network for an introduction (identify someone you know is already connected to the person you want to meet and ask them to forward a letter of introduction on your behalf). This leads to an "informational interview" (not a job interview); a chance to speak with someone about the company and its culture.
How have salaries changed over time for Business Transformation Consultants?
Dr. Dan Jensen: According to the Society for Human Resources, salary projections for 2021 are being reconsidered by many employers and plans for salary increases or bonuses may not be as large as projected. Salary expectations will vary with industry, role, and level of experience. 35-40% of US businesses have frozen salaries at 2020 levels. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a modest 3.0-3.5% increase is expected overall. Technology-driven roles are seeing among the largest increases in starting salaries as the battle to acquire talent continues to be highly competitive. Customer-focused roles with a technological focus (e.g., Customer Experience, CX) positions are also increasing compared to the past. Roles in accounting, finance, and general administration will see minimal change from the past year and vary based on industry rather than on the specific job title.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Business Transformation Consultants?
Dr. Dan Jensen: Credentials viewed favorably vary from industry to industry and job to job. If you are focused on the positive trends (question 1 above), there are specialized certifications for nearly every role. Some certifications require that you have professional experience in the industry, but others can be earned prior to having relevant work experience.
Supply Chain (e.g., Certified Supply Chain Manager, CSCP)
Human Resources (e.g., Professional in Human Resources, PHR)
Project Management (e.g., Project Management Professional, PMP)
Sales (e.g., SPIN Selling)
Networking (e.g., Certified Cisco Network Associate, CCNA)
Customer Relationship Management (e.g., Salesforce certification)
Google Certifications (e.g., AdWords certification)
Melody Buckner Ph.D.
Associate Vice Provost | Digital Learning and Online Initiatives, Assistant Professor of PracticeUniversity of Arizona
Digital Learning
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Transformation Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Melody Buckner Ph.D.: More of pivot to collaborate workspaces and working virtually from home offices. This includes the educational sector where hybrid and flex models of instruction will flourish. The light has been shined into the face-to-face classroom and there are cobwebs. We can help to advance education with modern pedagogical practices that include humanized technologies and more personalized learning experiences for learners of all ages.
What technical skills for a Business Transformation Consultant stand out to employers?
Melody Buckner Ph.D.: The ability to communicate via technology will be essential in the workplace. Employees will be required to navigate virtual environments, networks, privacy and security issues. Digital literacy should become digital fluency. We need to go beyond be familiar with digital skills and become comfortable or entrenched in these skills. Example: don't just drive the car but know how the car is made and be able to fix it.
What's a good job out of college for Business Transformation Consultants?
Melody Buckner Ph.D.: Any career that you can do from your home. Jobs where physical presence is required will be difficult in the future. I think collaborative space will become more the norm in public offices and private spaces will be created in personal spaces like homes or special office environments. Business will take advantage of the cost saving and put space as the responsivity of the employee. Let's hope tax codes keep up with this trend and allow write offs.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Transformation Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Robert Gitter: 2021 is going to be a tough year for new college graduates to enter the job market. They currently face a much higher unemployment rate-almost four percent-than they did before the pandemic began. The good news, though, is that the rate is still less than half that experienced by those with only a high school diploma. The job market will improve as the pandemic (hopefully) is brought under control but it might be a few years until we see employment and earnings for college graduates recover to pre-pandemic levels.
What Business Transformation Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Robert Gitter: Too many students believe there is a direct relationship between one's major and the occupation they wind up in. The relationship is a lot less direct than they believe. If a student were to take a gap year, I would recommend getting an internship or volunteer in a field they might want to enter or perhaps additional coursework in an area of interest. Frankly, in 2019 I might have recommended traveling to new places during a gap year but would not make the same recommendation today.
What general advice would you give to a Business Transformation Consultant?
Dr. Robert Gitter: I would advise students to think about where they would like to be in five years and what will help get them there. In the immediate term I would say do what you need to get by and pay off student loans but also be aware of what will help you in the long run. It would be a good idea to network as much as you can. What organizations do people belong to in the field you aspire to join? Make use of the network of alumni from your university. Students probably have a number of contacts from college; teachers, teammates, friends, colleagues from organizations they belonged to. Ask them for advice as well as family members and friends.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Business Transformation Consultants?
Lauren D’Innocenzo Ph.D.: The coronavirus pandemic has certainly tightened the job market, with fewer available jobs in many sectors such as the service industry, but at the same time, has created many other opportunities for graduates in fields such as healthcare and supply chain. For new graduates, strategically considering opportunities may help to overcome some of the challenges presented in the current economy.
For example, if you are looking to gain experience in service, applying to service-oriented positions in IT or healthcare may offer more opportunities and give you more breadth of experience. I believe the potential for an enduring impact exists in a graduate's ability to adapt to changing demands and willingness to cast a wider net for available positions. Graduates who are myopically focused and unwilling to test their knowledge in different areas may not see the same opportunities, and over time, the lack of opportunities can add up. Now is a great time to work on your resilience and flexibility.
Eleni Barbieri
Adjunct ProfessorBay Path University
School of Science and Management
What general advice would you give to a Business Transformation Consultant?
Eleni Barbieri: Take advantage of every opportunity to intern, observe, or volunteer in the area of your chosen profession. Gather as much information as possible to assist you in making sure that the profession that you chose is the one that you really wantd. There are many different professions in the legal services field. Go in with an open mind and with your eyes wide open; sample all the ones you're interested in so that you can get on track to your ultimate career goal as soon as possible. Do your research to ensure that you pick the organization that best suits your ideals and your vision of an environment that inspires and motivates you to succeed.
Remember that you never stop learning. Stay informed. You will work with numerous people. Try to emulate the ones that you feel are the most successful and professional. Focus is everything. Have a short-term plan, a five-year plan, and a long-term plan. It's alright to adjust your plan as long as you keep your ultimate goals in sight.
Joseph Gilkey Ph.D.
Chair Business Administration, Director, Data Science Institute, Director of MBA and MSA Masters Programs, Associate Professor Department of Business AdministrationSaint Peter's University
Department of Business Administration
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Business Transformation Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Joseph Gilkey Ph.D.: The job market has become much tighter, and because of that we are seeing that employers have become much more selective in their hiring process, pushing the bar up on skill sets required of the applicant.
What Business Transformation Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Joseph Gilkey Ph.D.: As I mentioned earlier, with employers pushing the bar higher on expectations and more and more focus being placed on data, build skill sets in the area of analytics. Being able to use data to understand business problems would help to enhance the person's ability to compete in the marketplace today.
What general advice would you give to a Business Transformation Consultant?
Joseph Gilkey Ph.D.: Continue to build skill sets and never stop learning. Look to understand and use new technologies, like AI. Stay current and relevant in the areas you want to work in. There are many ways to accomplish this, from self-study programs to colleges and universities.