Congratulations on securing a summer internship at a top consulting firm! This is a significant achievement and an invaluable opportunity to learn, grow, and demonstrate your potential. For many, this internship is a critical step towards securing a full-time offer in a highly competitive industry. Let's dive into the strategies that can transform your internship experience into a successful career launchpad.

Tip 1: Demonstrate a ‘Can Do’ Attitude

Your team knows you’re an intern, often without prior consulting experience. They don’t expect you to carry the project but they do appreciate a positive attitude.

• Proactively Seek Work: Consultants and managers are busy. If you find yourself without a task, approach them and ask for more work. Show a willingness to learn and contribute.

• Take Ownership: Independently manage your tasks. Understand the big picture, your role, and the expected outcome. Schedule periodic feedback sessions to avoid constant interruptions.

• Show Positivity: Consulting can be stressful. Maintain a positive attitude, smile, and be approachable. Offer to help others and take feedback constructively.

Tip 2: Grasp the Big Picture, Set Right Expectations & Create Support

Understanding the broader context and setting the right expectations can make a huge difference.

• Grasp the Big Picture: Attend project kick-off meetings. If joining midway, ask for a briefing. Understand how your tasks align with client objectives and share insights to demonstrate your understanding.

• Set Expectations: Discuss your skills with your manager and confirm the scope, deliverables, and deadlines for every task. Provide regular updates and raise any challenges immediately.

• Create Support: Know the official support available (e.g., coaching, graphics team). Arrange informal meetings with team members from different functions and stay connected with other interns to share best practices.

Tip 3: Do Your Homework

Before starting on the consulting project, there are a few must-read documents.

• Project Proposal: Understand the project’s scope, goals, plan, and deliverables.

• Client’s Latest Reports: Gain insights into the client’s financial health and strategic priorities.

• Industry Primers: Familiarize yourself with industry trends and challenges.

• Functional Primers: Learn key concepts, frameworks, and best practices in specific functions like strategy or operations.

• Team Member Profiles: Know your team’s backgrounds and expertise to leverage their strengths and build rapport.

Tip 4: Master Key Excel and PowerPoint Functionalities

Excel and PowerPoint will be your best friends. Mastering these tools will save you a lot of time and effort.

• Excel Proficiency: Functions like split windows, IF, SUM, VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, and conditional formatting are essential.

• PowerPoint Skills: Learn to draw charts, format axes, create issue trees, group objects, align and distribute objects, and use slide master and basic animations.

Tip 5: Pass the 'Airport Test'

It’s crucial to be someone your colleagues enjoy being around.

• Be Approachable: Smile and greet everyone warmly. Engage in small talk and ask open-ended questions to show genuine interest in others.

• Be Conversational: Stay updated on current events and share personal interests to encourage others to open up.

• Show Interest: Listen actively and remember personal details to build trust.

• Balance Professionalism and Fun: Be serious about your work but also join team activities to show you’re a well-rounded colleague.

Tip 6: Know Your Evaluation Criteria

Understand what you’ll be evaluated on to align your efforts with the firm’s standards.

• Problem Solving: Show analytical thinking and informed decision-making.

• Managing Work: Prioritize tasks efficiently and be resourceful.

• Communication: Convey ideas clearly and listen actively.

• Teamwork: Collaborate effectively and adapt to team needs.

Tip 7: Adopt the 'Every Draft Final Draft' Mindset

This ensures your work is polished and professional from the start.

• Clarify Expectations: Understand the goals, requirements, and audience for your work.

• Bounce Off Ideas: Discuss your approach with a mentor before deep diving.

• Thoroughly Review: Check for accuracy, coherence, and completeness.

• Seek Feedback: Get feedback from a team member before submitting to the manager.

• Iterate Quickly: Reflect on feedback and make necessary changes promptly.

Tip 8: Leverage the Feedback Culture

Effectively utilizing feedback can be a game-changer.

• Set Up Regular Feedback Sessions: Schedule weekly or fortnightly feedback time with your manager.

• Be Open to Immediate Feedback: Accept on-the-spot feedback and demonstrate adaptability.

• Take Feedback Constructively: Focus on how feedback can help you grow.

• Communicate Improvement Plans: Show your commitment to development by sharing your improvement plans.

• Showcase Improvement: Implement feedback and demonstrate progress in your work.

Tip 9: Network Effectively

Building a strong network can provide valuable insights and open doors.

• Be Genuine: Show authentic interest in others’ roles and experiences.

• Schedule Informal Meetings: Arrange coffee chats or informal meetups.

• Follow Up: Maintain contact by sending follow-up messages and staying engaged.

• Leverage Internal Events: Attend firm events and training sessions to meet new people.

• Offer Help: Engage in reciprocal networking by offering assistance and sharing insights.

Tip 10: Evaluate Your Consulting Career Fit

Assess if consulting aligns with your career goals and personal preferences.

• Discomfort with Ambiguity: If ambiguity stresses you out, consulting might not be the best fit.

• Struggling with Workload: If the long hours and intense workload overwhelm you, reconsider the consulting lifestyle.

• Disinterest in Client Interaction: If client meetings are unfulfilling, consulting might not be your path.

• Aversion to Travel: If frequent travel disrupts your personal life, you might prefer a more stable career.

• Lack of Passion for Problem-Solving: If complex problem-solving feels like a chore, consulting may not be your ideal career.

Conclusion

Your internship is a chance to showcase your skills, adaptability, and commitment. By following these tips, you can excel as an intern and significantly increase your chances of securing a full-time consulting offer. The effort you invest now can set the foundation for a rewarding career in consulting. Stay proactive, seek feedback, and continuously strive for excellence. Your journey to becoming a star intern and future consultant starts with the steps you take today. Best of luck!