Consulting is a highly demanding job, and research by Consultancy, United Kingdom, shows that consultants usually work between 50 to 80 hours a week to meet the expectations of their role. It all depends on the length of the contract; for long-term commitments, I never worked more than 40 to 50 hours a week. On the other hand, short-term tiger teams can require up to 80 hours of work. Boutique firms tend to have slightly better working conditions, with only 67% of consultants working beyond their contractual hours.
The pressure to finish projects within a certain time frame can lead to excessive consulting hours at certain periods. The type of project also affects the number of hours worked; on average, shorter projects require more hours. Consultants surveyed reported working 9.3 hours a week more than they are paid for, and strategic consultants often work up to 100% overtime with an average of 20 extra consulting hours. Male consultants in positions of responsibility work the longest, with an average of 9.9 and 12.4 hours; this figure is comparable to the average overtime of partners in the consulting sector. It is important to note that these long hours come with risks such as poor work-life balance and burnout. To maintain a healthy balance between your professional and personal life, it is important to choose your projects wisely.
Domestic help can also make it easier to work longer hours by improving the quality of time spent at home. At the end of the day, if it takes many hours for the project to be successful, I put my seatbelt on and I do it because I work as a team. As an experienced consultant, I can tell you that it is possible to manage your time efficiently and still get the job done without sacrificing your health or personal life. It is important to set realistic goals and expectations for yourself and your team, and to take regular breaks throughout the day.
Additionally, it is essential to have a good support system in place so that you can rely on your colleagues when needed. In conclusion, consulting is a demanding job that requires long hours in order to be successful. However, with proper planning and organization, it is possible to manage your time efficiently and still get the job done without sacrificing your health or personal life.
