Have you ever considered helping companies solve real-world problems, offering expert advice, and making a tangible impact on their business growth? This is what a business consultant does; their tasks are related to this, ranging from improving operations to shaping business strategies.
To become a business consultant after an MBA, you need a mix of strong problem-solving skills, industry awareness, and effective communication. Most firms prefer candidates with an MBA from a recognised institute, supported by internships, relevant projects, or certifications like Six Sigma or Business Analytics. This combination helps you stand out in a competitive field.
In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step through how to become a Consultant after MBA, covering essential skills, resume tips, interview preparation, and the top firms hiring consultants in India.
Who Is a Business Consultant?
A business consultant is a professional who helps companies solve problems, improve operations, and helps them to grow more effectively. They act as strategic advisors offering insights, identifying challenges, and recommending solutions that match the company’s goals.
Whether it’s launching a new product, cutting costs, or entering a new market, consultants play a key role in guiding businesses through smart and sustainable decisions.
Business consultants often work on short- or long-term projects, collaborating with different teams across marketing, finance, operations, or HR. They don’t just suggest ideas, they back them with research, data, and practical strategies. This makes consulting a dynamic career, where every project brings a new challenge and learning opportunity.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Business Consultant
- Understand the client’s business problems and goals.
- Conduct research and analyse data to find insights.
- Identify issues and suggest practical business solutions.
- Develop strategies to improve business performance.
- Create reports and presentations to explain findings.
- Work with client teams to implement solutions.
- Track progress and make changes if needed.
- Help businesses save costs, grow, or work more efficiently.
- Stay updated with market trends and industry best practices.
- Build strong client relationships through trust and communication.
Eligibility Criteria to Become a Consultant in India
- You must have an MBA degree from a recognised university in India.
- Specialisations like Strategy, Marketing, Finance, or Operations can be helpful, especially for targeted consulting roles.
- You must have a strong academic background helps during campus placements and interviews.
- Internships or live projects related to consulting improve your profile.
- Good communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills are essential.
How To Become A Business Consultant After MBA?
Step 1: Pursue a Relevant Academic Qualification
The first step is to complete an MBA degree from a recognised university or B-school. Choose a specialisation like Strategy, Finance, Marketing, or Operations, as these are closely linked to consulting. Studying at top institutes like IIMs or ISB helps, but students from other colleges can succeed too with the right preparation and mindset.
Step 2: Gain Practical Industry Experience
Consulting is a hands-on field, and companies look for candidates who can apply their learning to solving real business problems. During your MBA, try to pursue some internships, live industry projects, case competitions, or research assignments related to business strategy or operations. These experiences help you develop a problem-solving mindset.
Step 3: Develop Core Consulting Skills
To succeed in the consulting field, you need to have strong analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills. Focus on improving your problem-solving ability, critical thinking, and structured communication. Learn how to interpret business data, design effective PowerPoint presentations, and confidently explain your ideas. Group discussions, mock interviews, and business case practice can help sharpen these skills.
Step 4: Obtain Professional Certifications
Now you need to pursue some professional certifications; however, it is not mandatory, but it can boost your resume, in case you don’t have any prior consulting experience. Some of the popular courses, like Six Sigma, Business Analytics, Lean Management, Financial Modelling, or PMP (Project Management Professional), will help you build domain knowledge and give you an advantage to handle the job smoothly.
Step 5: Build a Strong Professional Network
Start networking early by attending industry events, joining consulting clubs, and staying active on LinkedIn. Connecting with alumni and professionals already in consulting can open valuable opportunities and guidance.
Step 6: Effectively Market Your Profile
Make sure your resume highlights your achievements, leadership experience, and consulting-relevant skills. Build a professional online presence, engage with content related to consulting, and apply actively to both on-campus and off-campus opportunities.
Required Skills And Qualifications For A Business Consultant
- Analytical Skills
As a business consultant, you will often deal with business reports, data, and complex situations. That’s why having strong analytical skills is important. It helps you break down problems, find useful patterns, and come up with clear, logical suggestions that work in the real world.
- Communication Skills
Consultants work with clients, teams, and senior professionals, so having communication skills is very important. You should be able to explain your ideas clearly, whether you are writing a report or speaking in a meeting. Good communication also builds trust, which is a big part of consulting.
- Problem-Solving Skills
Solving business problems is at the core skill of consulting. You will need to think through situations carefully, ask the right questions, and suggest solutions that are practical and result-driven. A structured approach always makes a strong impression.
- Business Awareness
Understanding how businesses function is a must. You should know the basics of departments like marketing, finance, HR, and operations. Keeping up with business news and industry trends also helps you give relevant and updated advice.
- Expertise in Business Management Tools
You should be comfortable using tools like Excel, PowerPoint, Tableau, or Power BI. These tools help you analyse data, make presentations, and explain your ideas more effectively, which is a big part of a consultant’s job.
- Teamwork and Collaboration
Consultants rarely work alone. You’ll be part of teams, often working on tight deadlines. It’s important to listen, share ideas, and support each other to complete tasks smoothly. A good team player always stands out.
- Time Management and Multi-tasking
Consulting can get hectic with multiple projects running at once. Managing your time well, setting priorities, and staying organised helps you stay focused and deliver quality work without last-minute stress.
Professional Certifications for Consulting Profile
1. Business English Communication Skills Specialization- By University of Washington
This course helps you speak, write, and understand English confidently in professional settings. You will learn useful vocabulary and communication techniques for meetings, phone calls, emails, and presentations.
Here is more about the course
Course Duration | 3 Months |
Course Fee | Free |
2. Consulting Presentations and Storytelling- By Emory University
In this course, you will understand how to structure a final presentation, align with project goals, explain your approach, and present insights. The course also teaches you to create clean slides, use visuals effectively, and deliver your message with confidence.
Here is more about the course
Course Duration | 6 hours |
Course Fee | Free |
3. Consulting Tools and Tips- By Emory University
This course helps you develop the essential skills needed in management consulting. You’ll learn how to quickly understand new industries, ask the right questions, and gather insights through interviews, surveys, and benchmarking. With hands-on learning, you’ll build the confidence to handle real client projects across different sectors.
Here is more about the course
Course Duration | 7 Hours |
Course Fee | Free |
4. SAP Technology Consultant Professional Certificate- By SAP
This program offers expert-level training directly from SAP, helping you build real-world skills through practical projects. You’ll earn a certificate that’s recognised by employers and can add value to your resume. By the end of the course, you’ll be ready for roles like Technology Consultant, Technical Business Analyst, or Technical Consultant.
Here is more about the course
Course Duration | 7 Months |
Course Fee | Free |
Business Consultant Salary In India
Business consultants in India typically earn between ₹2,16,000 to ₹2,88,000 at the entry level, especially after an MBA. Graduates from top B-schools may receive higher offers from firms like McKinsey, BCG, or the Big 4. With experience, salaries can grow to ₹5,00,000–8,00,000, and senior consultants can earn ₹25 LPA or more. Many firms also offer bonuses, allowances, and other benefits, making consulting a high-growth, well-paying career option.
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Last Words
If you are still wondering about how to become a consultant after MBA, then don’t worry, as you can read this blog again. Becoming a business consultant is a great choice as this career relates to a dynamic field that offers exciting challenges, different industry exposure.
While the path may seem competitive, with the right skills, certifications, and mindset, you can build a successful career in this field. Stay focused, keep learning, and take each step with confidence—your consulting journey starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is an MBA necessary to become a business consultant?
Ans. It’s not mandatory, an MBA, especially with a relevant specialisation greatly improves your chances of entering the consulting field.
Q2. Can I become a consultant without work experience?
Ans. Yes, many firms hire fresh MBA graduates. However, internships, live projects, or certifications can strengthen your profile.
Q3. What specializations are best in MBA for consulting?
Ans. Strategy, Finance, Marketing, Operations, and Business Analytics are commonly preferred for consulting roles.
Q4. Do certifications really help in consulting?
Ans. Yes. Certifications like Six Sigma, PMP, or Business Analytics can add credibility and improve your job prospects.
Q5. What is the average salary of a business consultant in India?
Ans. Entry-level consultants typically earn between ₹2–25 LPA, with higher salaries for those from top B-schools or firms.
