The consulting profession offers a unique mix of challenges, autonomy and influence. It can also come with ambiguity around roles, evolving expectations, and work-life balance. For many HR professionals, the question is not whether consulting is interesting but whether it is the right fit at the right time.

In this candid panel discussion, seasoned HR consultants reflect on their own career journeys, the realities of their current roles, and the lessons they wish they had known earlier. Panelists will explore how consulting careers evolve over time and how a consulting role can align with both professional goals and personal priorities. The conversation is equally valuable for those already in consulting and for professionals considering a transition into the field.

The session will be moderated by Dr. Steve Safier, an HR leader with four decades of experience spanning consulting, internal HR leadership, and operational roles. He currently serves as Director of the MS in Human Capital Management program at Columbia University and brings a grounded perspective to guiding this discussion.

Key Takeaways:

• A realistic view of what consulting actually looks like across career stages
• Insight into common challenges consultants face and strategies for managing expectations and boundaries
• Guidance on assessing readiness for consulting and identifying the right type of consulting role for your goals
• Practical career advice for building fulfillment in a consulting career