I still panic before every new engagement because each one is different, and I never feel confident that I’ll nail it. It always feels like I’m going to screw it up. Anyone else in the same shoe? I’m tired of consulting and pretending I know what I’m doing. Any suggestions to calm me down?

likesmart
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at
Highlighted IconHIGHLIGHTED

6 years in consulting and I also feel the same way. A stomach full of butterflies before I start every project. Imposter syndrome hits hard and I honestly don’t know what advice to give except to lean on what’s true…that you’ve survived every project thus far and have managed to perform well enough to stay at your company and keep doing what you’re doing.

likehelpful

I have been an online RTT hypnotherapist specializing in transforming anxiety into confidence in one session. My clients vary in range from entrepreneurs, supervisors, managers, employees, and spouses. We are all affected by our past experiences. We can learn how to effectively permanently release negative self-talk and incorporate better, constructive ideas to inspire a fabulous future.

like

30 years of consulting. Same. Every project whether leading, sole doer, or using staff or contractors. Welcome to the world of consulting and change and caring about serving others well!

Now, remember you have a head on your shoulders. Not every project with be a great fit for you. Figure it out. Communicate. Work hard.

Good luck!

like
Recent IconRecent

Try reading/rereading Meditations by Marcus Aurelius before each new engagement.

like

When you enter a new client environment:

* You don’t control the culture, politics, or prior decisions
* You don’t control how competent or difficult the team may be
* You don’t control unclear requirements or shifting expectations

But you do control:

* How you interpret ambiguity
* How quickly you judge people
* Whether you react defensively or stay objective

like

Only the paranoid survive

likefunny

Some things that help me:
-No one is dying if I do a bad job. I’m not saving lives here.
-What are positive outcomes from my fears?

Once I run through them, I’m not consumed by dread. Examples below.

Making a mistake: Builds character and I learn/remember more about the subject than if I’d aced it.

Get laid off: What do I dislike about this job? What would be great about suddenly not working here?

TL;DR
I remind myself that this job is not important. Removes the paralysis and fear of failure.

like

This is similar to what my dad used to say to me when i would get stressed over work earlier in my career.

He'd say, "what's the worst that can happen? So long as you're not in communist China, it's not like they're going to drag you out into a field behind the building and have you executed by firing squad "

Always made me feel better

like

No one truly knows what they’re doing. Everyone is learning and figuring things out.

Your value lies in your availability to think beyond the day-to-day grind and understand the bigger picture. Unlike your clients who have a day job, you’re dedicated to solving complex problems and finding solutions.

Clients don’t hire you because you’re smarter or an expert in a specific field. They hire you because you’re capacity allows you to take on an initiative. In that sense, they should provide you with the space and time you need to think and develop solutions. Use this opportunity to listen, understand the current situation, and let the solution emerge naturally.

likesmart

Maybe this depends on the type of consulting. For example, with implementation work, clients definitely expect expertise.

likesmart

It's like this on every job:
- lean into relationship building and talking to people first - seniors, your client, peers. It will help break the ice and more importantly get you oriented on where the project is and where you might fit in. Replay back your understanding of the project and what the client needs in your work stream.
You want to spread the uncertainty and not feel like you are holding the bag/on the hook for delivery and a single point of failure, but sharing your concerns, your understanding, be realistic about what might be achievable.

- Lean into your technical strength areas from here. Areas where you can speak confidently as that will build your credibility in the team and give you confidence.

- if you are a credible expert, then this is the point you shape and influence what your work should actually look like, rather than letting the client decide. You've done the discovery bit on your workstreeam, you've talked to key stakeholders. You tell them the best way to go about the outcome. That's what they pay you for. Network, speak to colleagues to test your approach.

Best of luck. This is normal. Consulting is the only job where your entire team and boss (client in this case) and can change every few months. That's unsettling by nature but you can develop strategies to soft land the first couple of weeks.

likeupliftingsmart

Consulting is an industry founded on insecure overachievers. You just have perfectly normal imposter syndrome!

likefunny

Nature of the job

like

Your post made me smile because I am always working on transformation. I have been a Rapid Transformational Therapist since 2019 and my clients transform their anxiety into confidence in just one session.

Sadly, clients expect experienced expertise for the top prices they pay consultants. Too often consultants are learning on the job which is a complete disservice to clients. It’s the consulting way. Glad I’m out of it.

like

From a person who got laid off and who has lost out on multiple round interviews recently and can't catch a break. I would much rather have your stress than the one I do right now. So hope that makes you feel better. :) At least you have an opportunity to be useful. Your attitude determines your days. Chin up and take it one day at a time. It's not that deep. Start your day as an interested person. Consulting is interesting if intentions are aligned. Clear communication and manage your own expectations with yourself. It's navigating the corporate bureaucracy that drains you. Find your bottom necks to success and mitigate them. Be kind to yourself. It's Contagious.

like

Thanks! Just sent a DM. Lmk.

like

At manager level, give yourself some more credit! You wouldn’t have gotten there if you weren’t decent at your job. 20 years in consulting and I finally got a few things I’m an expert in (during the last 3 years), but I do get a little anxious when I’m doing something other than those. Sounds like you’d benefit from some confidence and imposter syndrome coaching.

like

Look at it this way: its not that you don't enjoy what you do, but when you do it at home for friends and family and you do it at work it starts tu blur the lines a bit and then the benefits no longer outweigh the drawbacks of the position. As far as getting nervous... maybe a bit but I know its essentially all in my head, and he'll, the advice I'd give myself or someone else is just act like you've been there before. Head up chest out, you do it right and no body will ever know the difference.

like

It's just stage fright. It's pretty common, and it's perfectly healthy. If anything, it's probably more worrying if you feel each new engagement is utterly routine and predictable; every day should be a school day, and if you've not learned a new skill or perspective at the end of each project, you're at risk of stagnating.

Don't think of it as imposter syndrome. Think of it as an awareness of your current limitations and areas of growth.

Also, consider engaging with a coach if there's a particular area where you feel stuck. The right coach can be transformational.

like

(Forgot to mention they get results in one session.)

It does get better with time.

like

11 years in a Big 4. I feel the same but I've learned to reign it in, earlier the feeling would last for hours but I try to focus on looking at the big picture, understanding the business, the deal parameters and key hypothesis we want to prove and break it down into key questions and that immediately lifts the feeling.
It's natural, you're dealing with a lot of unknowns, eyes are on you and the weight of responsibility to deliver is what causes the feeling.
As someone here has said, you've got the experience, you've been through the grind, just try the above next time you feel the same.
Beat of luck

like

I think if you don't feel that way then you are either incredible at your job, you have done this project before or you have got complacent. It is a totally normal feeling.

like

You will discover pattern recognition over time. For now, take the above advice and always focus on basics: what does success look like, how is it measured, what are the levers we need to pull to drive that success, when are we gonna do it

Yep. Its more about anxiety. Gotta practice getting that under control. Worry about stupid stuff because its new people, you just have to recognize those moments and the walk yourself down. If you can, meet with a therapist to practice to recognition and regulation skills

Yes. I have been an online confidence coach and hypnotherapist since 2019. My clients typically gain results after a single 2-hr session and a month of transformative actions.

Related Posts

Can we get some experiences from people for Microsoft Federal consulting? Specifically the account delivery roles? Things like work life balance, time remote vs on client sites, compensation, etc? Would you say it is more like "Microsoft" or has that part of the company just replicated Deloitte, Booz Allen, etc?

likesmart

What are your best tips for traveling? I’ve found a few LS clubs in project cities, but usually only open on the weekends. I’ve had the best luck with Tinder/OkCupid (I date singles and couples)

Best books to give to new young client who genuinely wants to grow and develop his interest & understanding of finance, doesn’t want to be bored, & cares about his investment accounts?

like

Hi fishes,

My friend in Dxc getting calls for libertymutual , does this project is good pick

Yoe - 3.5
Tech stack - Java dev

likefunny

As a M / SM, how did you go about growing contacts outside of project work? For contacts that did not know via previous project work, how did you transition into how you (or firm) can help them?

helpful

I applied for a job and received an offer from my client. 15k+ bump in salary, better benefits/remote work, and responsibilities will give me exposure to all areas of the organization (start up). The problem is that they’re looking to staff me as a Senior when I’m currently a Manager at DT. They said they’re flexible on title, but curious to hear how others have navigated similar situations. I would report directly to the controller and have 1-2 staff reporting to me...

like

Any specific place where I can find good PM templates for like Project plan, release plan, product roadmap etc? Of course there’s a way to create plan from JIRA if thats your ALM software but wondering what everyone at FAANG is using

like

Travel reimbursement…what’s the rule of thumb for when a client is considered out of town? Mileage, distance etc?

And, what’s required to be covered? Been out of the traditional consulting model for a few years now…

like

Please do not show to client before Partner review!

Post Photo
likefunny

I have a Q that I worry is going to make me sound like a jerk, but want some opinions. I do strength training 2x/wk with a trainer who was assigned to me at a gym where I bought a pack of sessions. I don’t really consider myself “his” client bc the relationship is managed by the gym… but lately he keeps saying like “I can’t wait to see what my clients give me for Christmas” and I find it super awkward. I pay $150 per session for these workouts (cont’d in comments)…

likehelpful

Really want to attend a diversity conference on Monday but have a client meeting Tuesday. Think I could do it? Both are super important to me so trying to figure out what I can do

likehelpful

Hi all,

Please help in referring to infosys Chandigarh...
Yoe - 8.4
Domain - Network infra, cloud consultant, Infrastructure project management, project management

Thanks

like

Hi all, I have 3 years of experience in project management and looking for new opportunities.

Hi Fishes,

I wanted to know if project change is smooth in
Nagarro after finishing 1.5years in allotted project.

Also anyone working in good angular/ionic based projects ?

like

Looking for advice on business trips. My boss kindly asked me if I want to go meet a client out of state along with business folks. It will be my first visit to a client. What do you think are the benefits of these trips? I’m fairly new in my career and in-house so would appreciate any thoughts. Thanks!

like

White & Case About to lateral into the project finance team of White & Case. Thoughts on the culture / dos and don’ts?

like

How many project rejection are normal in nagarro. I have been mapped with different stack due to which have been rejected twice for proposed projects.

like

How is the wlb in Deloitte India for mulesoft Project

like

Consultant role in Deloitte USI (F&EP Team) Vs KPMG Global Services (IT Advisory- EPM Team)

Deloitte USI: 13L + 4L JB
KPMG KGS: 17L + 1L JB

YoE: 4.5
Tech Stack: EPM

Which one will be the better choice In terms of:
1. Bonus and Increments
2. WLB
3. Type of work (back-end/client-facing)
4. Professional growth
5. Any other relevant factors

Please share your experiences?

More Posts

Hi All, I’m thinking about getting certified in change management but not sure if I should go the Prosci route or CCMP route. CCMP is a lot cheaper compared to Prosci but would it measure up just the same?

I guess it would be similar to the discussion of the SHRM-SCP vs SPHR.

like

Any insights on what is the compensation range for regional managing director role at coinbase?

like

Hi,

Working as Business Analyst in VMware with 16.5LPA and having 7.6 YOE.

Am I getting under payed

Please suggest

like

👋🏾

Currently at a Tier 2 Strat shop, looking to lateral to MBB PEG/PIPE in the next 3 quarters.

Anyone ok for me to DM?

like

Tmrw is my joining date with optum when will I receive joining formalities and onboarding procedure

like

Anyone have any recommendations for an affordable (10k or less initiation fee) country club in GA? Don't mind at all if it's a bit of a drive from Atlanta proper. Just looking for an oasis away from the city life.

like

28M. First time solo travel 3 week trip to Spain coming up. Flying Royal Air Maroc from US. They’re allowing 2 check in bags and 1 carry on. However, I want to travel light and am trying to avoid check in bags completely. What carry on backpacks do you recommend to buy that would be enough for 3 week trip but also be allowed as a carry on? Also need to buy packing cubes.

like

Can anyone who currently holds the CoS title share what the pathway looked like for them to get there including prior roles and education background as well as the organization you work for (if comfortable) as this title seems to be rapidly phasing out. Would be super insightful for those still trying to get there to understand what the path could look like and where opportunities still exist besides government

like

Besides salary is there any additional bonuses, stock options, etc to expect as you advance to SVP and EVP?

like

Agency Producer Day Rate?

Los Angeles (Hollywood), I have 15 years experience on high-end/budget narrative feature and documentaries. Have only about 2 years agency exp...

How much should I contribute to a 401k?

like

How is DTICI as an organization. Does it fall under the same umbrella as Mercedes ?
How is the appraisal and hike percentages for good performers. Is the variable component fully payable?
Also wanted to know about the T6 band. Is it apt for a 10 years and 6 months experienced candidate.

like
like

Are there any roles at Google that would consider someone coming from Private Equity Ops (with consulting background) or is that too far removed? About to take a PE position but would like to know if it hurts my chances at moving to Big Tech one day - thank you

LTI-Larsen & Toubro Infotech is Hiring
*DM your EMAILID with JOBID to Apply*
All LTI Location!!

Post Photo

“Isn’t meth, like, so early 2000’s? Does anyone do that anymore?”

likefunny

On a Zoom call:
Colleague A: *begins talking*
Colleague B: *begins talking at the the same time as A*
Colleague B: "I'm sorry, A. Go ahead"
Colleague B: (said with much attitude) "No, B. You go ahead. I'm sure what you have to say is more important anyhow."
Everyone else on the call: *Stunned silence....*

funnylike

I got variable pay of 1 lack, two times after April's appraisal (so total 2 lack). I didn't had variable component mentioned in offer letter, but it was showing up in hr portal. Now payroll people are calling me and asking me to return the 1 lack saying it was done by mistake. What should I do?

Unfit for the office.

Post Photo
likefunnysmart

Additional Posts in Consulting

Planning to do a PRM or FRM qual. How useful is it to move from Big 4 Risk and reg consulting to industry? Finding it hard to get anything other than non-PM roles

like

Anyone have advise for juggling a new relationship and maintaining friendships (esp. w single friends)? Given how much we travel, time feels so limited

like

If it has an F in front of it, I probably love it - except Florida, that place is terrible.

like

Last day on a travel project and looking forward to spending some much needed time with the wife and kids. Flying home for good, ya'll! ✈️

like

What can I do outside the office to boost my resume and be a substantially more attractive candidate for top consulting firms in ~12 months time. Working in disputes and valuation role but want to go into management consulting next year (post MBA role). I feel like my job isn’t enough because skills aren’t considered as transferable outside this field.

like

Bain & Company How come the application process for Bain is very general? For example, I can only apply to “Consultant” roles instead of “Healthcare consultant”? Bain & Company

like

Getting really tired out from all the travel

like

The 'MAR-A-LAGO' act..!these Dems are on a roll!

like

Tired of hearing all the news. Can anyone give a REAL update on Hurricane Matthew near West Palm to Miami area? Thanks.

like

Looking for recommendations on time management books or apps , tips in general. Have been feeling overwhelmed with all the tasks and projects lately.

like

Hey all, new hire here! Going to receive a $250 wfh credit; any recs on what I should get to build out my home office?

like

All I want to do is curl up in bed with hot tea and a good book. Recommendations for if I ever achieve said dream?

like

Question on external resume- are you supposed to put roles on individual projects at your firm or just list high level things accomplished?

like

CFA or CAIA?

Anyone else ever feel like a completely inadequate consultant? I'm struggling with performance quality on this project because I just feel dumb and it demotivates me to really strive to improve. Possibly also impacted by burnout because I performed well on other engagements and enjoyed my teams more. Just not sure where to go from here to get where I need to be.

like

Badgers, badgers, badgers, badgers badgers, badgers. Mushroom! Mushroom!

like

Will you buy the iPhone 7? Do you care about the rumored bt only headphones?

like

ACN folks: I'm a sr. analyst in tech but can switch into strategy (md backing, good business case, etc.) but I am hesitant since there are not many strategy projects / roles. What should I do?

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal