Did you enjoy the program? If yes, how?
I thoroughly enjoyed the program. Although I have substantial industry experience, the program forced me to look at aspects that I had ignored earlier – communication skills, presentation, storytelling etc. The main learning was the structured manner to approach problems, which I try to apply to my daily work as well.
Did the program meet your expectations? If yes, how?
Till now, the program is going on well for me. Since my situation is slightly different, being a lateral with major work experience, finding the right opportunity is taking time. So my struggle is far from over. However, I am quite satisfied with the feedback and direction provided by Michael and it has worked for me till now.
What was the most important learning’s from the program?
The importance of communication and presentation came as an eye opener for me. It is an aspect I ignored throughout my career.
Do you feel the program provided an advantage for you versus your own/other preparation? If so, in what way?
I could never have reached this level of confidence without the program. It is a definite advantage.
Can you recall any memorable moments?
In the beginning, I was really struggling, majorly on communication and to some extent on the content / analysis. The memorable moment for me was at the end of the 6th or 7th session, where I could feel significant improvement.
What would you like changed in the program?
When a new client is enrolled, you may want to consider having an induction session or sending a detailed note as to how the program will go about. For instance, the session may cover the initial focus on getting the resume correct, networking, followed by sessions once the interview is fixed, so as to give comfort to the client that there is a definite plan in place to complete the program. This will also act as an ice-breaker.
I think this induction session is especially needed for clients who join the program based only on the content of your website. Since Firmsconsulting does not advertise or seek publicity, such clients will need some initial confidence that their decision to invest their time and money in a program that is not well publicized is justified. It might not be required for current students or fresh graduates who have their peers enrolled into the program and have therefore heard about it.
Do you believe your coach was effective?
Michael is very effective. He is quite patient and encouraging. He gives very clear feedback which goes a long way in helping the client improve their performance. He is also a role model – the manner in which he speaks, and the amount of hours he puts in to ensure that his clients succeed!
His sincerity is one of the driving forces for me to keep focused on my objective on getting into a consulting firm.
Do you personally believe the sessions were tailored for your own development?
I think the program is quite comprehensive and covers every aspect of my development, right from approaching the problem to analysis, discussion, communication, presentation, closing the discussion etc
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The only problem I see for myself is shortage of opportunities in consulting, since I am a lateral with close to 14 years work experience. But I don’t think that problem can be addressed by any program design. It will have to be resolved by me and my coach through persistent effort.
We have published the most useful client feedback. Our commitment to confidentiality prevents us from disclosing the identity of our clients and other confidential information, and we may alter details to prevent such disclosure. Some client feedback may be lightly edited for grammar, spelling or prose, though we never alter or remove any information. Clients in our consultants coaching program are forbidden from sharing sensitive client data with us.