The Hunger Games Survival Lessons for Consultants

 *First contribution by Ananda*

Do you have what it takes to be a successful consultant?

If you live in a cave and never heard of The Hunger Games before, check out the hunger games FAQ.

Like 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who fought her way to victory in the 74th Annual Hunger Games, newbie consultants are widely regarded by hiring managers as underdogs in today’s consultant market.

Let’s face it, in our current economic climate, if you’ve got gaps in your resume, went to a lower-tier school or are too old/young, you are not as likely as other consultants to be called in for a project. Consultants must make sure that the odds of obtaining that interview are “ever in your favor” by using all of the tools at your disposal to stand out to potential project managers.

 

  1. Volunteer. 

Katniss volunteers to participate in the Hunger Games in place of her sister, Prim. She is the first-ever volunteer from District 12, and her selflessness endears her to the Capitol. There is some debate among consultants regarding whether or not it pays to work for free, but many experts believe that volunteering at a company provides important connections, experience and encouragement to discouraged consultants.

 

2. Become the “Girl on Fire.” 

Katniss becomes “The Girl on Fire” after making a powerful first impression with potential sponsors at the opening ceremony of the Hunger Games. An interview is your first opportunity to present yourself to a potential project manager dynamically. Make sure that you remain confident and you dress appropriately. You want people to remember you.

 

3. Shoot a squirrel in the eye. 

Peeta can throw a heavy bag of flour over his head as a result of working at a bakery for his whole life. Katniss is an expert with a bow and arrow – shooting her prey in the eye to make a clean kill. Make sure that you, too, are emphasizing your unique skills in your SAP career. What can you bring to a potential project that no one else can?

 

4. Remember they already love you; just be yourself. 

 Katniss’ mentor, Haymitch, cannot decide how to present her to the public. In response, her stylist tells her just to be herself. As your consultancy career progresses, you may find yourself frustrated by the specific demands of potential projects – and you may feel obligated to start applying for jobs that are not an exact fit for your skill set. Keep in mind that the best job for you is one that is challenging, that makes use of your skill set, and that allows you to learn and excel. Wait for that job – or create it for yourself and pitch the benefit to your favorite companies.

You’ve probably already heard that The Hunger Games grossed $152.5 million during its opening weekend – making it Hollywood's third-biggest opener of all time. And if you saw the movie, you probably cheered for Katniss as she worked to perfect her image, navigate a seemingly impossible situation and to survive.