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Job outlook for change management consultants in the United States
Are change management consultant jobs in demand?
Change management consultant job and salary trends over time
Change management consultant jobs over time
Change management consultant job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2,214 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 2,115 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 2,045 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 1,972 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 1,899 | 0.00% |
Average change management consultant salary over time
Change management consultant salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $91,599 | $44.04 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $89,091 | $42.83 | +2.0% |
| 2023 | $87,367 | $42.00 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $86,155 | $41.42 | +1.4% |
| 2021 | $84,985 | $40.86 | +0.0% |
Change management consultant jobs by state
Most common states for change management consultants
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 676 | 97% |
| 2 | Vermont | 623,657 | 193 | 31% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,047 | 30% |
| 4 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 884 | 28% |
| 5 | Delaware | 961,939 | 266 | 28% |
| 6 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 232 | 27% |
| 7 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 280 | 26% |
| 8 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 2,068 | 24% |
| 9 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 2,765 | 22% |
| 10 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 917 | 22% |
| 11 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 291 | 22% |
| 12 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 289 | 22% |
| 13 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 167 | 22% |
| 14 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,144 | 21% |
| 15 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 390 | 21% |
| 16 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 714 | 20% |
| 17 | Alaska | 739,795 | 137 | 19% |
| 18 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,312 | 18% |
| 19 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 889 | 18% |
| 20 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 872 | 18% |
Most common cities for change management consultants
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Frankfort | 7 | 25% | $91,915 |
| 2 | Annapolis | 7 | 18% | $104,991 |
| 3 | Dover | 5 | 13% | $88,832 |
| 4 | Lansing | 8 | 7% | $95,044 |
| 5 | Hartford | 7 | 6% | $100,637 |
| 6 | Topeka | 6 | 5% | $89,128 |
| 7 | Baton Rouge | 6 | 3% | $80,628 |
| 8 | Des Moines | 6 | 3% | $83,400 |
| 9 | Montgomery | 6 | 3% | $86,549 |
| 10 | Atlanta | 10 | 2% | $90,802 |
| 11 | Saint Paul | 6 | 2% | $93,231 |
| 12 | Urban Honolulu | 6 | 2% | $71,663 |
| 13 | Washington | 10 | 1% | $106,280 |
| 14 | Boston | 9 | 1% | $106,916 |
| 15 | Indianapolis | 7 | 1% | $95,382 |
| 16 | Sacramento | 7 | 1% | $110,324 |
| 17 | Denver | 6 | 1% | $90,241 |
| 18 | Chicago | 5 | 0% | $96,755 |
Change Management Consultant job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of change management consultant experts
Davidson College
University of West Florida
Lewis-Clark State College
Xavier University
University of North Florida
Coastal Carolina University
Florida State University
University of Nevada, Reno
Lasell University
Bradley University
Bucknell University
University of Central Missouri
University of Arizona
Ohio Wesleyan University
Drexel University
Bay Path University
Saint Peter's University
Michigan State University
Drew University
Molloy College
Katie Horowitz
Associate Professor of Gender & Sexuality StudiesDavidson College
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, And Group Studies
What general advice would you give to a Change Management 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 Change Management Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Katie Horowitz: Some research shows that women and members of marginalized racial groups are less likely to negotiate their salaries than their white male counterparts. When you get a job offer, don’t forgo the opportunity to advocate for a higher salary.
What will help Change Management 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 will help Change Management 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 skills stand out on Change Management 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 Change Management 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 Change Management 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 Change Management 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.
Mike Halloran
Teaching Professor, Management and Entrepreneurship, Taskforce Member, Center for InnovationXavier University
Management Department
What skills stand out on Change Management 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 soft skills should all Change Management Consultants possess?
Mike Halloran: -Leadership
-Working well with others
-Oral and written communication
- Thinking analytically, creatively, and strategically
-Leadership
-Time management
- Motivation and drive
What skills will help Change Management 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 Change Management 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 Change Management Consultant resumes?
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.: Problem-solving, Creative thinking, Data Analytics, Competitive Strategies, Communication, Leadership and Team Building, Decision making.
What soft skills should all Change Management Consultants possess?
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.: Creative thinking, Leadership, Adaptability, Communication, Empathy, Conflict Resolution, Work Ethic.
What skills will help Change Management 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.
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 hard/technical skills are most important for Change Management Consultants?
C. Darren Brooks Ph.D.: As stated earlier, the field of management is broad and encompasses all industries and sectors. Consequently, the technical skills necessary to succeed will vary according to the specific knowledge and experiences required to understand the nuances of an organization. Accordingly, graduates who have business acumen and technical competency in a particular discipline or industry would be better positioned for employment opportunities. As a result, I always place emphasis on gaining internships and work experience concurrently with academic study. These experiences will provide a real-world understanding of the type of skills necessary to succeed in organizations as well as offer industry-specific knowledge. However, for many graduates, their practical skills are limited. In this case, it is important to ensure you have more generalizable skills that are applicable across industries, such as building digital fluency, analytical fluency, writing skills, and strong Excel skills. When speaking with consulting firms and industry employers, they repeatedly reference the need for graduates to demonstrate more advanced Excel skills.
What skills will help Change Management Consultants earn the most?
C. Darren Brooks Ph.D.: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in management occupations will grow over the next decade by 9%. Due to the broad array of management opportunities, variations in skills necessary for success are likely to exist based on the type of management work being performed and the industry or sector. However, there are general management skills or competencies necessary for success, including management consulting, that employers continually seek from graduates. The ten most sought-after skills include the following: critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, innovation/creativity, problem-solving, analytical fluency, digital fluency, adaptability, resilience, aptitude for collaboration and teamwork, and human capital management.
What skills stand out on Change Management Consultant resumes?
C. Darren Brooks Ph.D.: Requisite skills relevant for management consulting roles that should be visible to employers can be grouped into the following three broad categories : (1) functional expertise and/or specialization of knowledge in particular areas or disciplines, (2) strong business analytics skills, and (3) the ability to lead projects or teams. Considering the broad nature of management, and particularly management consulting, skills should reflect the specific needs of the organization or industry of practice. For example, individuals working in executive compensation would require a different set of demonstrated skills on their resume than someone engaging in performance systems analysis to support process re-engineering within a manufacturing setting. Additionally, since management professionals work in and/or lead teams, being personable, engaging, proactive, demonstrated leadership, and an ability to handle difficult situations are all skills and competencies highly sought after. In sum, regardless of the industry or sector, most employers look for skills displayed both on a resume and then demonstrated during the selection process that shows the applicant possesses the capability to work within a team, has sound analytical skills, the ability to communicate complex information, resolve conflict and solve problems.
What soft skills should all Change Management 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.
Jim McClenahan
Director of Career and Corporate OutreachUniversity of Nevada, Reno
College of Business
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Change Management 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.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Change Management 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 Change Management 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.
Dr. Brian Wardyga
Professor of Communication; General Manager, 109.2FM WLAS & LCTVLasell University
School of Communication and The Arts
What skills stand out on Change Management 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 skills will help Change Management 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.
Candace Esken Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Management & LeadershipBradley University
Foster College of Business
What skills stand out on Change Management Consultant resumes?
Candace Esken Ph.D.: Management analysts, or consultants, should have strong skills associated with data analytics and problem-solving. Any evidence of these skills on an applicant's resume is a key indicator of being a strong candidate. For example, proficiency with various statistical data analysis software programs or data management systems helps a candidate's resume stand out. It also helps if an applicant has several years of work experience in a related field.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Change Management Consultants?
Candace Esken Ph.D.: The most important hard skills for management analysts are problem-solving, data analysis, and presentation skills. The central focus of their work revolves around solving problems for clients by analyzing large chunks of data and drawing meaningful conclusions. Analysts also spend a great deal of time creating sophisticated presentations to enhance communication with clients. Management Analysts should be especially skilled with excel and PowerPoint.
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 Change Management 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 skills will help Change Management 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.
What soft skills should all Change Management 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 are the biggest trends we'll see in the Change Management 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.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Change Management 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)
How have salaries changed over time for Change Management 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.
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 Change Management 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 Change Management 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 Change Management 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 Change Management 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 Change Management 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 Change Management 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.
What type of skills will young Change Management Consultants need?
Lauren D’Innocenzo Ph.D.: We are seeing more and more the need for core skills (formerly known as soft skills). These skills include being able to work in a team, leadership, critical problem-solving, and negotiations, to name a few. Many employers see these skills as transferable across contexts and increase the likelihood that the individual will be able to work with others and think outside of the box in collaborative, knowledge-intensive environments. We know that much of the learning for jobs occurs on the job and having these core skills can really help you to stand out as a team-oriented individual, who is willing to think beyond their own needs, and can learn organizational-specific skills needed to succeed in the employer's company.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Change Management 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.
What experience really stands out on Change Management Consultant resumes?
Lauren D’Innocenzo Ph.D.: Similar to above, having experience around these core skills can really help anyone, including new graduates, stand out from the crowd. This experience can come from taking courses designed to build these skills or engaging in positions or internships that provide opportunities to grow these skills. For example, at Drexel University, we offer a program (Organizational Management) designed specifically to grow these skills through experiential learning that any student can take, regardless of undergraduate major. Outside of the classroom, being a peer leader, working as a camp counselor, or taking on an internship working in a team can be very helpful in building these skills. The key is to highlight these opportunities and skills in your resume. Don't just talk about the tasks you did, but describe the core skills needed for the position and built as a result of the position.
Additionally, remote and virtual work is not going away anytime soon. In fact, many organizations have offloaded brick and mortar locations and have strategically decided to rely more on remote business. Now more than ever, demonstrating your ability to successfully work in a remote environment will be extremely favorable for many employers.
Eleni Barbieri
Adjunct ProfessorBay Path University
School of Science and Management
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Change Management Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Eleni Barbieri: The online shopping model already had a headstart before the pandemic, and the pandemic has exponentially increased this trend. Retail sale supervision and management positions are going to decrease. Computer programming, network management, internet security, warehouse management, logistics, and delivery-related employment positions are going to increase. Also, computers have enabled more and more large corporations to allow employees to work from home. Initially originating from a need to isolate employees during the pandemic, corporations are seeing great benefits with this practice, with little or no reduction in work output and high dollar value in not having to maintain workspaces for employees. Sadly, due to a tragic decrease of generation X consumers, due to the pandemic, businesses that targeted and relied on that segment of the population will suffer.
Specifically in the area of legal services, you will see a greater difficulty in recruiting and keeping entry-level service providers. The pandemic exposed the contamination risks to those working within in the legal service profession. The risk of future pandemics, current portrayal of the legal services profession in the media, and the ever-compounding avalanche of retirements due to those factors, will create a need for employers to find incentives for people to enter and stay in this demanding field of service.
What Change Management Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Eleni Barbieri: I would highly recommend that they work to improve their communication skills. I suggest working to improve all aspects of their communication skills, verbal, nonverbal, and written. The current generation of entry-level employees is already lacking in when it comes to the communication skill set required, due to the advent of texting, emails, and all other forms of indirect communication. The ability to communicate clearly will be an invaluable asset no matter the profession they decide to pursue. While they are working on their communication skills, they should also focus on their abilities to accurately receive communications. Being able to actively listen will garner a better understanding of the message the speaker is trying to convey and the environment in which they find themselves immersed.
Additionally, they need to remain current regarding changes, updates, or trends in their chosen field. They need to remain plugged into data sources that can provide them with the vital information that they require to maintain their proficiency levels in order to successfully return to the academic environment after their gap year.
What general advice would you give to a Change Management 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 Change Management 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 general advice would you give to a Change Management 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.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Change Management Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Jonelle Roth Ph.D.: -Delayed start dates
-Remote starts
-Challenges to LDP and PDP (rotational) type programs, which really depend on short term exposure to tasks and people. How do you really show what a HR plant job looks like in 3 months virtually?
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Change Management Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Christopher Andrews: One of the biggest trends we are seeing is that the pandemic is further exacerbating existing inequalities in the labor market. Highly educated workers in stable jobs that can telework have largely been able to carry on working remotely, while social distancing requirements have devastated blue-collar and working class jobs that require close, in-person contact. Large numbers of small businesses have also gone out of business, creating a knock-on effect that ripples through industries as well as communities.
The pandemic also revealed how interdependent business and industries are; when travel declined, so did jobs in entertainment, restaurants, and tourism. It also revealed the increase in precarious work: part-time, on-demand jobs that pay low wages and offer few, if any, benefits.
We also learned that many low-paying, low-status jobs are actually essential to our survival, including delivery persons, health aides, janitors, and grocery store clerks. Similarly, the shift to remote, online instruction highlighted the importance and value of teachers and day care workers. Many parents found it difficult to balance their children's schooling and manage their own work. I hope that as the pandemic recedes, Americans will not forget how important these jobs are in allowing parents to focus their time and energy on work.
Collectively, it's a bit like Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities; those with high levels of education in professional jobs have weathered the pandemic fairly well, if not prospered, while those with less education in blue-collar manufacturing and service jobs have found themselves either out of work or facing the possibility of working in conditions that increase their risk of infection.
On the upside, we observed some notable successes for workers: strikes by workers at Amazon, Instacart, and Whole Foods resulted in hazard pay and improvements in workplace safety, while workers successfully formed unions in difficult-to-organize tech companies such as Google and Kickstarter. Businesses may also expand or make permanent temporary flexible work arrangements that have been adopted during the pandemic, reducing commutes, traffic jams, and stress. Organizations have been forced to be creative in ways they previously haven't, and we may see changes in workplace policies that make balancing work and family a little easier.
What skills stand out on Change Management Consultant resumes?
Christopher Andrews: A combination of hard skills and soft skills. While hard skills include things like data analysis or experience using specific computer program applications, employers also value important soft skills such as attention to detail, time management, and teamwork. The latter might be implied or taken for granted but are critical nevertheless, especially for customer-facing jobs or those involving working with a group. While we're pretty good at defining and describing hard skills, I think we need to do better in helping students to articulate their soft skills and learn how to translate academic experiences and knowledge into things employers understand and value.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Change Management Consultants to find work opportunities?
Christopher Andrews: While many could've migrated away from cities during the pandemic, cities and metropolitan areas will probably also be the places that bounce back the quickest and on the largest scale. After all, that is where the majority of businesses and consumers are located. Areas surrounded by colleges and universities, places like Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York, will also benefit from the close proximity to a pipeline of college graduates. Students in places like these might very well find that their next job isn't too far from campus!
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Change Management Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Brian Noll: The pandemic, for the most part, has not had an impact on the job market for students graduating from Molloy College with an accounting degree. The students of ours that had commitments at medium to large (Big 4) accounting firms started their positions as planned, albeit in a remote capacity. We experienced only a few individuals that had start dates deferred for a few months. In addition, the majority of our accounting students have been successful in obtaining internships for the fall of 2019 and spring of 2020.
What Change Management Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Brian Noll: To study and pass the CPA Exam as soon as possible. Studies have shown that there is a higher likelihood of success on the exam when it is taken shortly after graduation. Once a graduate starts thier full time position they will have much less time available to focus on the exam. Most firms offer a bonus ($5,000 is the norm) for employees that pass the exam within one year of their start date, as having a CPA certification increases your future earning potential and grants a higher degree of upward mobility. One should consider taking a gap year towards passing the CPA exam to be a gift. In addition, students should continually sharpen their Excel skills. Having a CPA with strong Excel skills will make a graduate much more marketable.
What general advice would you give to a Change Management Consultant?
Brian Noll: To "put your head down" and do your work! Never complain about having to work additional hours as this is the norm in the accounting profession. Having a good work ethic is essential to success in your career. Lastly, stay off your phone! Your phone should be used for personal matters on your own time and not during work hours.