What a Strategy Consultant at Accenture Wishes They Knew Before Consulting
Audrey, a Strategy Consultant at Accenture, learned that "an outside perspective...is just as valuable as the perspective of an expert," a realization that significantly impacted their early career by allowing them to confidently contribute creative solutions and "make their voice heard."
Communication, Problem-Solving, Confidence, Overcoming Challenges, Industry Realities
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Audrey DeVaughn
Strategy Consultant
Accenture LLP
Yale University, 2017
UCLA Anderson, MBA, 2023
Economics
Consulting & Related Professional Services
Consulting
Scholarship Recipient
Video Highlights
1. The value of an outsider's perspective: Audrey highlights that her fresh perspective as a young consultant was highly valued by senior executives. This contrasts with her initial anxiety about lacking industry experience.
2. Overcoming self-doubt: Audrey initially doubted her ideas due to her age and lack of experience. This highlight emphasizes the importance of confidence and advocating for one's perspectives.
3. The importance of a strong voice: Audrey received feedback that she has good ideas but needs to be more vocal. This emphasizes the need for clear communication and assertive self-promotion in the consulting industry.
Transcript
Audrey, what have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before you entered the industry?
One thing I learned on the job is that an outside perspective, or a third-party view, is just as valuable as the perspective of an expert in the industry or function.
I came into this role pretty anxious about being very young and having to advise senior executives on their business, which they had been building for several years. However, my value-add was actually having that outside perspective. That naivety helped a lot in coming up with creative solutions.
They really valued my voice, and a lot of the feedback I've gotten is that I have good ideas and I need to make my voice heard. I wish I would have known that before coming in and hadn't second-guessed all my ideas.