What's Changed in Consulting? Reflections from 15+ Years on the Job
A lot has changed—but the essentials still hold
Hi there,
As someone who started consulting back in 2008, I’ve had a front-row seat to how the field has evolved. And recently, I’ve found myself reflecting on just how much things have changed—especially during conversations with younger colleagues who entered the profession during the pandemic or after.
It’s easy to assume that the way we work now is how it’s always been. But the truth is, the consulting world I stepped into back then looked very different: we worked almost entirely from client offices, saw long and linear projects as the norm, and rarely talked about things like psychological safety or career paths outside the partner track.
Now? Everything from how we deliver to how we collaborate has shifted—mostly for the better.
This post isn’t about nostalgia. It’s about noticing how the culture, expectations, and tools of our profession have matured. And while not everything was better in the old days (far from it), it’s useful to pause every once in a while and see just how far we’ve come.
So here’s my take on what’s changed in consulting over the last 15+ years—and what’s stayed the same.
What’s Different in Consulting Today—A 15-Year Retrospective
1. Remote Work Became the Norm
Back in 2008, being a consultant meant being on-site—either at the client’s office or commuting there from your own firm’s premises (often by taxi). Today, most work happens remotely over Teams. Being physically present is no longer the default, it’s the exception.
2. Expectations Rose—And Engagements Became Smaller
It used to be more common to work in long, large projects with a single client. Now, clients expect faster results, closer collaboration, and measurable impact—but are also less willing to commit big budgets upfront. We have to earn trust in increments, often working in smaller, agile phases.
3. Tools Changed, But the Core Stayed the Same
Yes, we now use a wider range of tools, frameworks, and delivery models. But the fundamentals haven’t changed: understand the client’s situation, solve the right problems, and help move things forward in a way that sticks.
4. Behavioral Standards Rose
Fifteen years ago, poor management, harsh communication, or even outright inappropriate behavior could be dismissed with a shrug in some organizations. Today, those things are taken seriously. People won’t just “put up with it” anymore—which is a good thing.
5. There Are More Career Paths
There used to be one assumed direction: up the ladder toward leadership or partner roles. Now, specialist and hybrid paths are more accepted and respected. You can grow deep instead of just high.
6. Wellbeing Is on the Agenda
Back then, 150 % utilization was sometimes seen as a badge of honor. These days, wellbeing is (finally) part of the conversation—and taken seriously in many firms. Burnout is recognized for what it is: a risk, not a rite of passage.
7. Culture of “Fun” Evolved
Years ago, being a “fun employer” often meant corporate parties, champagne, and VIP events (sometimes even helicopter rides). Today, it’s more about meaningful shared experiences, psychological safety, and simply being able to relax and be yourself.
8. Diversity and Responsibility Matter More
In 2008, the successful consultant archetype was narrow: loud, confident, and extroverted. Today, we value different personalities, communication styles, and lived experiences. Diversity, equity, and responsibility are no longer “nice to have”—they’re part of how we work.
Final Thoughts
In many ways, the culture of consulting has become more human. We’re more thoughtful, more inclusive, and (hopefully) more balanced than we were 15 years ago.
And yet, the essentials haven’t changed:
🧭 Trust.
🤝 Collaboration.
🚀 Helping people move forward with clarity and results.
That’s the heart of consulting—and it will be for the next 15 years, and more.
👉 What’s one change in work culture you’ve noticed over the past 10–15 years?
Best,
Eetu Niemi
IT Consulting Career Hub