Long time reader, first time poster. Thanks for the great work guys!So here goes: I am currently working at a major technology company as an engineer - with some responsibilities in product management. Management however seems to be a difficult wall to crack through as a full time role due to flat hierarchies and so on.In the meanwhile, I have received an offer from a top tier consulting firm on technology consulting, giving me manager level and 20% pay rise.I am seriously considering this offer to turbo boost my career into management, and then return to industry in a few years time frame. What I am not sure of though is, if breaking away from traditional technology company is a good idea for a career boost. As in when I return, i will definitely have less technology (operations) knowledge, but more management and sales experience.Also, which kind of roles can I target once I return to industry.It would be great, if you guys can offer some advice.Nillyz!

Very good question. I think it would definitely be good for your career, but consider the cost in terms of job security and the long hours too before making your decision. Consultancy can be a truly dreadful experience if you find yourself placed in a team full of morons, so choose wisely!

Thanks.If I may ask, why is consulting any more insecure than a regular tech company job? In fact isn't consulting more secure?On another note, any suggestions on general fields to get back to, when done with consulting?

Consultants are the first to be canned when cutbacks need to be made. Furthermore, projects typically only last a few months - and then you basically have to find yourself a new "job" within the firm (or make one for yourself if you are senior...) and if you stay "on the bench" for too long, it won't be long before you reach your next appraisal and suddenly find that you aren't meeting expectations. Plus, if you're unlucky enough to find yourself in a company with an up or out policy, you ought to start applying for new jobs externally around 4 months before each appraisal, just in case (as the saying goes, "it could be you"...)