Consulting is changing faster than many firms realize.

In this episode, Dean McMann and Anthony Paluska step back from the headlines to explore several signals they’re seeing across the consulting world, from hiring trends to new expectations around productivity and how consultants actually get work done.

Some firms are rethinking how they build teams. Others are experimenting with how they measure performance. And across the industry, there’s a growing question about what future consulting careers will actually look like.

What happens when the traditional consulting pyramid starts to shift?
How will consultants develop the experience they need to lead clients?
And what capabilities will matter most as organizations become leaner and more selective about when they bring in outside help?

Dean and Anthony share observations from conversations with consulting leaders, compare notes on what they’re seeing inside firms, and debate what the next version of consulting organizations might become.

The answers aren’t fully clear yet—but the direction of change is starting to emerge.

If you’re building a consulting career or leading a professional services team, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.