From Grad to Consultant – what we’ve learned since day one

Starting out in consulting can feel like a big leap – there’s a lot to take in, plenty to learn, and more than a few moments where you’ll be pushed outside of your comfort zone. But it’s also an incredibly rewarding way to kick off your career. What we’ve learned is that your mindset matters just as much as your skillset. At Escient, we’ve been encouraged from day one to stay curious, lean into the unknown, and take time to reflect – because that’s how real growth happens.

As part of our Escient Graduate Program experience, we picked some valuable lessons that we hope will help anyone thinking about starting a career in consulting. Here are three things we’ve learned that might just help you hit the ground running.

Self-doubt is normal

Starting something new is exciting, but let’s be real, it can also be a little daunting. It’s completely normal to have moments when you wonder, Am I good enough? Can I keep up? You’re not alone – we’ve all been there and so have the people ahead of you.

The truth is that those feelings of doubt aren’t a sign that you’re not cut out for it. They’re a sign you’re growing. You’re stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new things, and figuring it all out as you go. Of course that’s going to feel uncomfortable sometimes. What matters is how you respond. Use these wobbly moments to get curious, focus on learning and back yourself to keep building the skills you need.

• You’re not expected to have all the answers. A big part of consulting is asking smart questions and being open to learning as you go.
• Talk to your team. Sharing how you’re feeling can take the pressure off – and chances are, someone else has been through something similar and can offer some helpful advice.
• Back yourself. You were chosen for a reason – by people who know what it takes to succeed. They saw your potential, and you should too.
• Treat challenges as a chance to grow. Every tough moment is a chance to build your confidence, sharpen your skills, and broaden your perspective.

Perfection isn’t the goal, progress is

In consulting, you’re often dealing with complex problems that don’t have easy answers. The path to a great outcome is rarely smooth, and that’s okay. Mistakes, challenges, and a few wrong turns are all part of the process.

What matters most is how you respond. Every tough moment teaches you something – not just about the work, but about how you think, adapt, and grow. Over time, these moments build your confidence and shape your approach. The best consultants don’t chase perfection, they focus on getting better every day. It is progress that really counts.

• Stay curious. Keep your curiosity alive. The more you explore, the more you’ll learn.
• Celebrate the small wins. Take time to notice your progress – even the little things. It’s a great way to stay motivated and see how far you’ve come.
• Ask questions and seek out advice. Tap into the experience of others. Try questions like How would you tackle this? What worked well when you were in my shoes? People are usually more than happy to share what they’ve learned.

Work-life balance matters

Work-life balance isn’t about getting the perfect 50/50 split – it’s about knowing what you need, when you need it.

Some weeks will be full-on and require more time and energy. Others will be quieter, giving you the space to recharge. The important thing is to recognise that balance isn’t fixed – it shifts depending on what’s happening in your life and your work, to do your best work and feel good doing it, you need to tune in to what keeps you energised. Sometimes that means going all-in during a busy week, and sometimes it means slowing down and giving yourself a break. Both are equally valid.

• Protect your personal time. Boundaries help you bring your best to work without burning out. Rest is productive too – you can’t pour from an empty cup.
• Pause when you need to. Step away from the laptop and make time for the things that recharge you. Go to that friend’s birthday party, make it to your usual Pilates class, or simply unwind with some ‘me time.’ 
• Balance takes practice. It’s not always easy to get it right, and that’s okay. You’ll find your rhythm with time (and if we’re being honest, we’re still figuring it out too!)

Starting a career in consulting is a huge milestone, congratulations!

This journey will stretch you, surprise you, and reward you in ways you might not expect. So, embrace the learning curve, stay open to new ideas, and back yourself every step of the way. Keep these lessons in mind as you find your feet – they’ll help you build a career that’s not only successful but genuinely fulfilling.

We’re cheering you on from the sidelines. Now go for it – dive in, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to dream big!