Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Business Model Canvas • Operating Model • Risk Assessment

Gap Analysis

Term from Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Gap Analysis is a business review method that helps companies identify differences between where they are now and where they want to be. Think of it like comparing a company's current situation to their ideal future goals, then figuring out what's missing. Consultants use this tool to help businesses improve their performance, processes, or skills. It's similar to doing a before-and-after comparison, but with specific steps to identify what needs to change. Other terms for this include "needs assessment," "performance analysis," or "current state assessment."

Examples in Resumes

Conducted Gap Analysis for Fortune 500 client resulting in 30% efficiency improvement

Led team in performing Gap Analysis and Needs Assessment to identify process improvements

Developed strategic recommendations based on Gap Analysis findings for retail clients

Typical job title: "Business Consultants"

Also try searching for:

Management Consultant Business Analyst Process Consultant Strategy Consultant Change Management Consultant Operations Consultant

Where to Find Business Consultants

Professional Associations

Online Communities

• LinkedIn Consulting Groups
• Reddit r/consulting

Professional Networks

• LinkedIn Consulting Professionals
• Consulting Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a complex Gap Analysis project you led and what were the outcomes?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show experience managing large-scale analyses, ability to handle stakeholders at executive level, and measurable business results. They should mention leading teams and implementing recommendations.

Q: How do you handle resistance to change when presenting Gap Analysis findings?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should demonstrate experience with change management, stakeholder communication, and ability to build buy-in at all levels of an organization.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to collect data for a Gap Analysis?

Expected Answer: Should mention various data collection methods like interviews, surveys, document review, and observation. Should also discuss how to validate and analyze the information gathered.

Q: How do you prioritize gaps identified in your analysis?

Expected Answer: Should explain approach to ranking findings based on business impact, cost, time to implement, and organizational readiness.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic steps in conducting a Gap Analysis?

Expected Answer: Should be able to outline the fundamental steps: identifying current state, defining desired future state, measuring the gap, and developing action plans.

Q: What tools do you use to document and present Gap Analysis findings?

Expected Answer: Should mention common business tools like PowerPoint, Excel, or similar software, and basic understanding of how to present findings clearly to clients.