What a Project Manager at Accenture wishes they had known before entering the consulting industry
Steven, a Program/Project Manager at Accenture, learned that "it's okay to not know everything," a crucial lesson for navigating client expectations; the key is demonstrating a proactive approach to problem-solving, as shown by "I don't have the answer, but I will figure it out."
Project Management, Communication, Problem-Solving, Industry Realities, Overcoming Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Steven Smith
Program/Project Manager
Accenture
University of Georgia, 2017
University of California, Los Angeles & M.B.A
Finance
Consulting & Related Professional Services
Operations and Project Management
Pell Grant Recipient, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. It's okay to not know everything; clients value problem-solving skills and follow-through.
2. Don't be afraid to say you don't know the answer, but commit to finding it and following up.
3. Clients appreciate genuineness and openness, combined with a strong work ethic
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
Something I wish I knew is that it's okay to not know everything. Clients understand that you don't know everything, and that's perfectly fine. They don't expect you to have all the answers.
What they do expect is for you to know how to figure things out and find information. The best piece of advice I've learned through experience is to be comfortable telling clients, "I don't have the answer right now, but I will figure it out and get back to you by the end of the day or tomorrow."
This shows genuineness and openness, while also demonstrating your work ethic and follow-through skills. Clients, especially experienced ones, will know you don't have all the answers, whether you try to hide it or not. As long as you can figure things out or know where to find information, you'll be just fine.