How do I obtain a consulting position in Chicago if I am about to graduate, but only have a 3.0?

Question

I have prior relevant work experience and have been extremely involved with numerous organizations, of which I was always an executive member.

Answer 1

You play up your strengths when you apply for any position. You should emphasize your relevant volunteer experience to the position and any course work which could help you to better understand the area in which you will be working. There are a number of different types of consulting positions. Try to relate to what is available at the company

Answer 2

I do not have a degree, but have held a few positions of importance here and there.

Listen to me:
The most important thing about your degree is that you have a degree. Sometimes, the degree is irrelevant, and your grades are mostly irrelevant as well. My experience has shown that what counts 95% of the time is that you have a degree. This will open the doors for you.

The most important thing about getting a job is how you present yourself. Business decisions are usually not made over your college transcript. In fact, I have never turned in a college transcript to any job I have had. (I have been Information Systems Manager for a couple of places.)

That being said, I recommend that you put your resume together - there's professionals that dedicate themselves to make sure that the resume looks spiffy, and can serve as a professional second set of eyes to make sure that your resume attracts attention in the right way, and find yourself a couple of headhunters and tell them what you want. Their job is to find the consulting job you want, and they will do most of the "selling of yourself" for you. They will also have quite a few contacts that you may not otherwise have. It's a good way to start, and one that doesn't require amazing amounts of effort.

If this is not an option, posting a good resume on hotjobs.com or other similar websites will eventually lead to good results. I know I have gotten quite a few interesting offers/proposals over job posting websites, some of which have materialized into wonderful jobs.

And it may sound old, but "networking, networking, networking." The best jobs I have had have been because the friend of my friend knew of this guy who knew of this job opening. Let people know what you're looking for, and be prepared with cards that have your contact information. Take advantage of the people you already know from the executive positions you have held, and let them help you find what is available. There might not be a position available where they work, but they might have a partner or a business relationship with someone who might just have the perfect job!!!

Good luck!

Answer 3

Honestly, most employers don't care about your GPA as long as you have the bachelor's degree and some relevant work experience. In my experience the only place your college GPA matters is if you are trying to get into Graduate School.