The consulting industry stands at the cusp of a profound transformation, driven by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and changing business landscapes. Here are 5 things consultants need to know about adapting and thriving in the future of 2035.

We Discuss:

• How will the role of consultants change by 2035?
• Is there a historical analog for the current pace of change in consulting?
• What should individual consultants do to prepare for these changes?
• Will AI completely replace human consultants?
• How might consulting firms change their investment strategies?

Key Highlights:

• The discussion focuses on a Strategic Foresight Study for 2035 produced by 2b Ahead, a German research firm, examining emerging trends in consulting (00:01:10)
• There’s increasing uncertainty and “fog” in the business world, making navigating uncertainty a key value proposition for consultants (00:06:09)
• AI and automation are impacting knowledge work and consulting more than previously expected, potentially displacing roles like legal and medical professionals (00:23:44)
• The pace of technological change and dissemination of information is accelerating, leading to faster development and adoption of new tools (00:15:02)
• By 2035, consulting firms may need to invest more in AI hardware rather than just hiring more consultants (00:29:29)
• Consultants should focus on recording their work in AI-accessible formats and developing “original thought” that AI currently can’t replicate (00:31:40)
• To remain relevant, consultants should actively use and understand AI tools to improve their work and potentially create new business models (00:35:47)
• The potential impact of AI on consulting ranges from incremental improvements to transformative change if AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) is achieved (00:34:34)
• Embracing uncertainty and adapting to new tools is key for consultants’ future success (00:40:18)

5 Takeaways:

1. The consulting industry is facing increasing uncertainty and complexity, making the ability to navigate ambiguity a crucial skill for future consultants.
2. Artificial intelligence and automation are impacting knowledge work more significantly than anticipated, potentially displacing traditional consulting roles and requiring consultants to adapt their skillsets.
3. By 2035, consulting firms may need to invest more heavily in AI hardware and capabilities rather than solely focusing on hiring human consultants.
4. To remain relevant, consultants should actively use AI tools, focus on developing “original thought” that AI can’t replicate, and look for ways to make their services more accessible and scalable.
5. The future of consulting will likely involve a symbiotic relationship between human expertise and AI capabilities, with successful consultants leveraging both to provide unique value to clients.

Here is the link to the full report, Strategic Foresight 2035 by 2b Ahead. https://2bahead.com/en/zukunftsstudie-kundenkommunikation2030-1

Patreon subscribers get the full document as well as the summarized set of slides.

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Episode 72 – Audio Only