Engineering consultancy: the period between projects, a lever for development for consultants

The HR minute
•  Publié le
Thursday
17
July
2025

In the world of engineering consultancy, periods between projects are a natural and frequent part of a consultant’s career. Too often perceived as ‘dead time’, these moments between two projects are in fact a real opportunity for professional and personal development. With the right support, these phases can become powerful levers for development, learning and commitment.

In practical terms, what happens when a consultant enters a period between projects?

What is the period between projects in engineering consultancy?


The period between projects is the interval between two customer projects. This phase can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the business sector, market or profile. It generally occurs at the end of a project or during organisational readjustments with a customer.

Rather than being seen as a period of no interest, this period represents useful and constructive time for the consultant.

A good time to build skills


The period between projects often offers a slower pace, enabling consultants to:

  • Train in new technical or methodological skills
  • Build on expertise already acquired
  • Prepare for certifications or follow e-learning modules
  • Monitor business line or technology developments
  • Rethink their career plan

Chez agap2, a training programme is offered to consultants to help them develop their skills.

Ongoing contract and benefits


During the period between projects, agap2 consultants retain their full employment contract, including salary and benefits. This means they can tackle this transition phase with confidence, while actively preparing for what’s to come. HR teams and managers work in synergy to quickly identify new projects that are in line with the aspirations and skills of each consultant.

A constant link with the agencies and teams


Between projects, the agap2 offices remain open. Any consultant can come here for training, to exchange ideas with colleagues, to meet their manager or simply to benefit from a stimulating working environment. This close relationship fosters team cohesion and reinforces the feeling of belonging.

A time dedicated to commitment to good causes


agap2 also offers initiatives for good causes between projects with the Vendredi platform, enabling consultants to get involved in civic or community initiatives. These one-off assignments, lasting a few hours or a few days, are an opportunity to put their skills to work for meaningful causes.

It’s in this context that Agapian consultant Laura Vergerolle chose to get involved with a group of refugees, helping them to create their CVs to facilitate their return to the world of work. She also took advantage of this period to follow a training course on the Climate Fresco, a strong personal commitment.

agap2 answers your questions on video!


To take things further, agap2 has launched a series of monthly videos in which we answer your questions about the world of engineering consultancy and our internal practices.

In this latest episode, agap2 consultant Laura explains how the period between projects can become a real opportunity for development.

Follow us for more advice and analysis on engineering consultancy recruitment!