The present paper is part of a larger study to determine problems of
concern to consultants; this study focuses on the importance of consultant
and client gender. Survey data were gathered from management con
sultants in the Los Angeles area. Data indicated that male and female
consultants are approximately the same in training, interests, strategies,
and other background aspects; despite comparable credentials, women are
concentrated in the lower ranks of consulting firms. Some data also suggest
that women may have more difficulty establishing their own firms. Women
are viewed as performing less credibly with clients than are their male
counterparts, although this effect appears to be minimized with female
clients. Overall, despite their preparation for management consulting,
women appear to be experiencing substantial discrimination when enter
ing the field.
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