What does a Business Consultant do?
Many businesses depend on consultants for profitable operations. Business Consultants often look at a company’s managerial structure, the quality of their products, the number of returns and customer complaints, the amounts of essential supplies on hand, and the efficiency of the supply chain. They let company executives know when they should negotiate lower prices with Contractors, adjust prices they charge to customers, change employee schedules, or take other actions to beat competitors. Some Business Consultants supervise Researchers, who look at financial and other company records. Business Consultants may also help executives predict which actions will be successful and efficient to avoid costly mistakes.
Business Consultant skills and qualifications
Successful Business Consultants are polite, friendly, persuasive, and professional. They can work with a wide variety of suppliers and employees, and they are creative problem solvers who can adapt quickly. They may also keep track of competing businesses to provide an analysis of their strengths and weaknesses. Some Business Consultants may need to communicate with clients in other countries where being bilingual or multilingual can be beneficial. Top skills and qualifications for Business Consultants include:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Outstanding organizational and time management skills
- Extensive understanding of services or products the business sells and its industry
- Ability to anticipate customer demand, and determine which products will be most profitable and popular
- Ability to negotiate with vendors
- Understanding of basic math, accounting, and budgeting
Business Consultant experience requirements
For most Business Consultant positions, candidates are required to have at least five years experience working as a Contractor either independently or as part of a business consulting firm. Ideal candidates will have worked in the same industry as the position, as they will have industry-specific knowledge which will reduce the amount of on-the-job training needed.
Business Consultant education and training requirements
Business Consultant jobs often require a bachelor’s degree in business administration, business, commerce, economics, or a similar subject. Many Business Consultants often have a master’s degree as well. In some provinces, a certification as a Business or Management Consultant is required by law. On-the-job training is usually needed as well.
Business Consultant salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Business Consultant in Canada is $65,711 per year. Individual pay levels vary depending on experience, education levels, the company, and the location.
Job description samples for similar positions
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