Enduring Bonds of Consulting Journey

Today, I finished my 10 years with Deloitte. For someone who left 6 jobs in first 18 months at the beginning of his career, this is simply remarkable!! And yes, I have earned my stripes to be emotional and a LinkedIn post!

Introduction: In a world where careers are often characterized by transient connections and loose affiliations, the consulting life stands apart as a testament to the enduring power of relationships. The camaraderie that blossoms within the confines of consultancy is a breed apart from any other job I have experienced (except for brave soldiers who fight a war, which I have not experienced). It is a bond that transcends the confines of the workplace, a connection that roots itself deep within the hearts of those who tread this professional path. As a consultant, I stand here today to share the profound emotional journey that has shaped my life, and the everlasting bonds that have defined my existence.

The Journey Begins: 26 years back, when I embarked on my journey as a consultant, it was a mean to compensate for the lost income for the million of years I spent as a poor graduate student and get some stability fast! I could hardly have foreseen the profound impact it would have on my life. The consultant's life is one of perpetual motion, where every new project heralds a fresh adventure, and every day is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow. The variety of challenges we face is both exhilarating and demanding, and it is within these shared experiences that the most enduring bonds take root.

What they don't teach you in school: From the first day at a new project (I was thrown in front of a client in Canada to come up with a solution to optimally cut paper for a paper mill, which I had to idea how to solve), the initial awkward introductions and the flurry of acronyms and jargon, to the late nights spent collaborating on intricate solutions, a profound transformation followed. Colleagues cease to be mere coworkers; they become comrades in arms, allies in the ever-evolving battle of knowledge and innovation. We share our successes and failures, celebrate milestones and commiserate over setbacks. We become not just colleagues but friends, and confidants. Strangely, clients who initially looked at us as funny, modified grad students, become our friends.

Outstanding Colleagues: As a consultant, I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the brightest minds and the most dedicated professionals. These individuals have become an integral part of my life, extending beyond the confines of the office and stretching into the tapestry of my existence. We have laughed together, cried together, and faced countless professional and personal milestones together. These shared moments have become the threads that have woven the fabric of my personal and professional life.

Life beyond work: The emotional richness of a consultant's life lies not only in the shared accomplishments but also in the deep connections that transcend the boundaries of work. The friendships formed in this profession are enduring and unyielding, providing a safety net and a source of unwavering support in times of personal crisis. Whether it's celebrating a colleague's wedding, supporting each other through difficult times, or simply sharing a cup of coffee to reflect on life's twists and turns, the bonds formed in consultancy stand the test of time.

In summary: The journey of a consultant is a unique and transformative one. It is a path that not only enriches our professional lives but also leaves a permanent mark on our personal journeys. The emotional essay I write on behalf of a consultant is a tribute to the enduring bonds that define our lives. These relationships are the true currency of our profession, a treasure that we carry with us throughout our days. The friendships forged in the world of consultancy are not just for a season or a reason but for a lifetime. They are a testament to the profound and lasting impact of this noble profession.