Top 10 Interview Questions for Consultants

As a consultant, you’re always on the lookout for new opportunities. Whether seeking a full-time position or looking to freelance, nailing the interview questions for consultants is crucial to landing the gig. But what questions should you expect? And what can you do to prepare for them?

To help you out, we’ve outlined a list of the ten most common questions asked in consulting interviews—along with expert tips on how to answer each one. Keep reading to learn more!

Interview Questions for Consultants

1. Tell Me About a Period You Had to Solve a Complex Problem.

When answering this question, it’s essential to focus on the steps you took to solve the problem rather than the actual outcome. Consulting is about finding creative solutions to complex challenges, so your interviewer will look to see how you think on your feet and handle pressure.

2. Can You Share a Project That You Spearheaded During Your Time at XYZ Company?

This question is designed to test your leadership skills and see how you handle project management. When answering, be sure to highlight not only your successes but also any lessons learned along the way. After all, consultants always look for ways to improve their processes and deliver better client results.

3. What Do You Think Sets Consulting Apart From Other Industries?

This is a great question highlighting your knowledge of the consulting industry and what it takes to succeed. When answering, be sure to touch on the importance of problem-solving, creative thinking, and strong communication skills—all of which are essential for any good consultant.

4. Why Do You Want to Become a Consultant?

You have to answer this question, but the most important thing is, to be honest. If you’re passionate about consulting and excited about helping businesses solve complex problems, say so. But if you’re looking for a high salary or flexible hours, it’s best to be upfront about that.

5. What Do You Think Are the Biggest Challenges Faced by Consultants Today?

This is another great question to show off your industry knowledge. When answering, you might touch on topics like the war for top talent, the ever-changing landscape of technology, and the need for consultants to learn and adapt to new situations constantly.

6. Can You Share When You Dealt With a Difficult Client?

As a consultant, you’ll inevitably run into challenging clients from time to time. When answering this question, focus on how you took care of the situation professionally and what steps you took to resolve the issue.

7. What Is the Most Crucial Trait of a Successful Consultant?

This is a great question to highlight your strengths and qualities. You might touch on topics like resilience, adaptability, resourcefulness, and being a lifelong learner when answering.

8. Can You Share a Time When You Had to Go Above and Beyond for a Client?

Working long hours and going the extra mile is all part of being a successful consultant. When answering this question, focus on a specific instance where you went beyond the norms for a client and what the result was.

9. What Do You Think Are the Most Significant Benefits of Consulting?

People enter the consulting field for various reasons, so this is a great question to highlight your motivations. When answering, you might touch on topics like the variety of work, the opportunity to learn and grow, and the chance to impact the lives of others.

10. What Do You Think Are the Biggest Challenges Faced by Consultants Today?

This is another great question to show off your industry knowledge. When answering, you might touch on topics like the war for top talent, the ever-changing landscape of technology, and the need for consultants to learn and adapt to new situations continuously.

What to Avoid During Your Interview As a Consultant

• Don’t come across as arrogant or cocky. The consulting industry is all about collaboration and working together to achieve results, so it’s essential to be a team player.
• Don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something. No one expects you to be perfect at everything, so it’s okay to say that you need to research or ask for help from others.
• Don’t badmouth previous employers or clients. This will only make you look rude and difficult to work with.
• Don’t talk over other people or interrupt them when they’re speaking. This shows a lack of respect and makes it difficult for others to have their voices heard.
• Don’t forget to ask questions! Asking questions shows that you’re interested and engaged in the conversation and allows you to learn more about the company and the role.

Conclusion

As you can see, you should expect a variety of questions during a consultation interview. By preparing for these questions in advance, you’ll be able to showcase your knowledge and skills while also putting your best foot forward. Good luck!