What “on the beach” means in consulting (and why it’s not always a vacation)
If you're new to consulting or considering it as a career path, you might come across the phrase “on the beach”. Despite how it sounds, it doesn’t mean sipping cocktails by the ocean. In the consulting world, being on the beach (also known as "bench time") refers to the time when a consultant is not actively assigned to a client project.
Being on the beach is a natural part of the consulting life cycle. It can last days or weeks, depending on the firm's project pipeline, your skills, and your level of seniority. For junior consultants, bench time often occurs between projects. For senior consultants or partners, it might be less frequent but still happens, particularly when they’re between major client relationships or roles.
What do consultants do during beach time?
In most consulting firms, especially larger ones, there are always more consultants than projects at any given time. The firm needs to be ready to staff up quickly when new projects come in. That means sometimes consultants are between assignments—waiting to be staffed. This varies by firm, but here are some common activities:
- Internal projects: You might work on internal initiatives like knowledge management, recruitment, marketing, or process improvements.
- Training and development: Beach time is often used for professional development — taking online courses, attending firm-sponsored trainings, or earning certifications.
- Business development: Mid-level and senior consultants might assist with proposals, pitches, or researching potential clients.
- Networking: Building relationships internally can help you stay top-of-mind when new projects are staffed.
- Job Searching (quietly!): Let’s be honest—if you're on the beach for too long, you may start considering your options.
Is being on the beach good or bad?
A stretch of time on the beach might sometimes feel a bit uncertain, but remember, it really depends on your unique situation. Think of it this way: this downtime can actually give you some fantastic chances to supercharge your career, even if it sometimes feels like a bit of a bump in the road. So, let's explore both the bright spots and a few things you might want to keep in mind.
Pros:
- A welcome breather after a demanding project.
- A chance to reflect, reset, and skill up.
- An opportunity to explore internal initiatives or connect with leadership.
Cons:
- Extended bench time can signal low demand for your skillset.
- It may impact performance reviews if perceived as underutilisation.
- You could be at risk during layoffs if beach time drags on.
Tips for Making the Most of Beach Time
You can definitely make this time work for you. Here are some ideas to help you get the most out of it:
- Be proactive: Let staffing managers know you’re available and interested. Don't just wait—advocate for yourself.
- Stay visible: Engage in firm-wide initiatives or help out other teams informally.
- Upskill strategically: Use the downtime to close any skill gaps, especially in areas that are in high demand.
- Maintain a positive attitude: Beach time isn’t always within your control. How you handle it reflects your professionalism.
Final Thoughts
Being on the beach is a normal part of the consulting experience. Rather than viewing it as idle time, treat it as a strategic pause—a chance to grow, contribute in new ways, and prepare for your next challenge. In a career as fast-paced and unpredictable as consulting, knowing how to make the most of every phase—including the beach—is part of the game.