ways to start as a Consultant

[Omarjeldrs]

Hello everyone! I am Omar From Morocco

I'm thrilled to announce that I've just earned my SAP Technology certification from an 8 month certification Course in Coursera and I'm ready to embark on an exciting new adventure as an SAP consultant!

I'm eager to get started, but I'm looking for advice on how to take my first steps in this field.

[Syed7861]

Hi Omar

Getting in the SAP as a consultant is not that easy as people think, what is your SAP Technology certification name, what did you do? Tell us more about your qualifications so we can help you more precisely.

Regards,

Syed

[Omarjeldrs]

Hi Syed,

Thanks for your response and for being upfront about the challenges of breaking into SAP consulting. I appreciate the honesty. You're right, simply having a certification isn't enough, and I understand it takes more than just classroom knowledge to succeed. I'm eager to learn what it takes to bridge that gap.

My SAP Technology Professional Certificate (from Coursera) covered a range of topics, starting with fundamental of SAP Technology then business concepts like enterprise environments, customer discovery, and engagement. It then delved into designing SAP solutions, including implementation strategies. Crucially, each module concluded with practical simulations and peer reviews, which gave me a taste of real-world scenarios and collaboration. While I know these simulations aren't the same as live projects, they allowed me to apply the concepts I learned.

Beyond the certification, I bring some valuable experience to the table. I've worked as a Project Manager, where I honed my skills in planning, execution, and stakeholder management. I've also worked as a Financial Consultant, giving me a solid understanding of business processes and financial data – crucial aspects of any SAP implementation. I believe this combination of technical training and practical business experience positions me well to learn and contribute quickly.

I understand that practical experience is key. What I'm really looking for is advice on how to gain that initial experience. Are there specific areas within SAP consulting where newcomers can focus? Are there opportunities for shadowing, internships, or even contributing to open-source projects (if such things exist in the SAP world)? Any guidance on how to start practicing the skills I've learned, even on a smaller scale, would be greatly appreciated. I'm a fast learner and I'm willing to put in the hard work. I’m eager to hear your insights.

[Syed7861]

Thanks Omar.

I know now that you have a financial background, so you should look for SAP S4 HANA Finance.

Create a LinkedIn profile if you do not have already.

Develop relevant skills in SAP S4 HANA Finance 

• https://www.sap-press.com/sap-s4hana-finance_5606/?utm_source=sappressblog&utm_medium=referral&utm_c...

You need to get involve in SAP Forums (SAP S4 HANA finance) and get recommendations.

Also get some training online and apply for the positions.

Once you get a project even a junior level, you will learn a lot.

Regards,

Syed

[Omarjeldrs]

Hi Syed,

Thanks again for the helpful advice. I'm actively working on the steps you suggested. I have a couple of clarifying questions as I move forward:

• Certification Path: When looking at SAP certifications, should I focus on "Associate" level certifications in S4HANA Finance as a starting point, and then progress to higher levels as I gain experience? Or are there other entry-level certifications that might be more suitable for someone with my background? I want to make sure I'm following the most effective path.
• SAP Financial Consultant Role: I understand you've recommended focusing on S4HANA Finance given my background. Does this mean I can realistically aim for a specialized role as an SAP Financial Consultant once I have the necessary skills and experience? I'm trying to visualize my career trajectory within the SAP ecosystem.

Your insights on these points would be greatly appreciated as I plan my next steps.

Regards,

Omar

[Syed7861]

Hi Omar

These are some points I would like to mention on your questions:

Certification Path:

Indeed, you should take start from Associate level certifications and progress to higher level as gaining experience.

• Take the C_TS4FI certification exam
• Certification can lead to career opportunities in the SAP field but if you do not have real experience, it's just a certificate.

SAP Financial Consultant Role:

In my opinion you should aim for an SAP Financial consultant once you have necessary skills and experience, first you need to find out the sources where you can get the training, depending on your budget, search online, when you find one, stick with it, as I told that go to SAP Community forums and get the recommendations from SAP FICO consultants, look for a support role even it's a Junior role, you will learn a lot.

Good Luck my friend😉

Regards,

Syed