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6 common myths about life sciences consultancy

Considering an exciting career as a life sciences consultant, but still in doubt? In this article, we debunk 6 myths about consultancy to help you decide!
6 myths about life sciences consultancy

A job in life sciences consultancy offers plenty of challenges, variety, career opportunities, and growth, but it is still shrouded in myth and mystery. Considering an exciting career as a life sciences consultant, but still having doubts? In this article, we debunk 6 myths about consultancy to help you decide!

We asked Loís Dewaele, Ludovic Corbineau and Chris Nieuwkoop – QbD Ambassadors and top-notch consultants – what the most commonly discussed myths about consultancy are. They came up with 6 persistent myths and shared their insights based on their professional experience. Discover them below!

Ludovic

Ludovic

Myth 1: consultants are always working crazy hours

Some people who don’t know what it’s like to be a consultant see it as being an external employee for a client, who has to extend his working day indefinitely. This, of course, is not true.

Sure, every consultant must be able to cope with a certain amount of work overload for a short period of time… but we always keep a good balance between our professional and private lives.

As a consultant, you are not the slave of the client, but you are seen as a true partner who supports the client in a realistic and manageable situation.

Chris

Chris

Myth 2: consultants need to travel throughout the whole country

This is a common consultancy myth that does not necessarily need to be true!

Within the QbD Group, consultants can choose between two main pathways, depending on their desired lifestyle. 

A consultant can choose to work on one big project for one main client OR work on multiple smaller projects for various clients. Depending on what you choose, traveling may be limited.

Conversely, if you wish to, you can sometimes even choose to work and travel internationally. In any case, the consultancy job can be as flexible as you like!  

"As a consultant, you are seen as a true partner who supports the client in a realistic and manageable situation."

Ludovic

Ludovic

Myth 3: consultants are not considered part of the client's team

Usually, it is the opposite. (smiles) The client needs you because he does not have the necessary capabilities or resources internally. So you usually get the same treatment as an internal employee… or even better.

Also, as a consultant, you are not limited by the client’s organization, so you can reach different hierarchies more easily.

Lois

Loís

Myth 4: consultants have a very limited connection with their actual employer

At the QbD Group, I feel very connected as a consultant thanks to the many internal events where you can get in touch with each other.

This year, we went to Rotterdam during the ‘QbD weekend‘ and got to do many fun activities, such as ice sculpting. The QbD Group also organizes knowledge cafes where you can learn more about a specific topic within life sciences.

Another great example is the cycling event during the summer – the ‘Transalpes cycling trip’ – where we cycle together for a week and conquer the French Alps.

There is always an event for every QbD employee, which creates opportunities to meet new people within the organization.

Ludovic

Ludovic

Myth 5: consultants lead an irregular life

As a consultant, you have very diverse clients, projects, and experiences, but that is not the same as leading an irregular life! Sure, you’re less likely to sit at the same desk in the same location for 10 years…

…but more diversity means that you will always have the opportunity to go the extra mile and increase your experience faster than in any other type of job.

"As a consultant you have very diverse clients, projects and experiences, but that is not the same as leading an irregular life!"

Chris

Chris

Myth 6: a job in consultancy offers limited career opportunities

Consultancy offers you the opportunity to grow your skills exponentially in a short period of time. There is a big world out there for you to discover, and what better way than to be active in multiple projects and pursue your professional passions.

In consultancy, there are more career opportunities than you can count. Just keep your eyes open, and be ready to jump into new adventures when the opportunities arise!

Want to work at QbD?

Does QbD look like the company you want to work for? We are always hiring, so do check what we have to offer and apply!

Need help and advice?

Fresh out of school and eager to gain job experience? Enroll in the QbD Academy: a combination of working, learning, and training!

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