What makes good consultant

First, consider what the definition of a consultant is. Sounds like a fairly simple definition. However, taking this definition to look at job searches can make the simple definition a much more complicated task. In addition to the numerous types of consulting, there is also the need to consider the size of the consulting firm to join. They range significantly from small niche firms of less than 50 people up to the Big 4 that employ thousands.

Again, the choice here stems from what the applicant deems as the best fit for them. However, no matter what type of consulting area a person would like to enter or what firm they would want to work for, there are several key characteristics that every successful consultant should possess: Having self-confidence, be a good listener, be a team player, easily cultivate and gain client trust, exhibit humility, have good communication skills, and be able to showcase expert knowledge.

Have Self-Confidence When meeting with clients, be sure to not show or sound uncertain in the responses to their questions. Speak with authority. Undoubtedly, as I work with a client, I develop my own opinions about how things ought to be. It is tempting, at times, to push the client to agree with my opinion. My job, and how I add value, is by advising my clients of their options and to offer expert guidance during their decision-making process. Speak The Hard Truth.

In advising my clients, there are always situations that arise where I am placed in a position of delivering unpleasant news. When I was younger and just beginning to work as a consultant, I tried to whitewash these unpleasant topics. Having grown older, and having seen other consultants at work, I realize there is tremendous value in speaking the hard truth even if it is never a fun conversation and even if the hard truth means I lose the client.

Despite how hard the conversation may be, helping the client see the truth helps the client make a change that will ultimately benefit their business. Speak To The Real Problem. As I dig into their situation, though, I may find as I often do that their problem has nothing to do with the design and everything to do with something else like the technical structure, the information architecture, the customers targeted, the content of the website, the price of their product, etc.

It is my responsibility, and the responsibility of any good consultant, to identify the real problem and help the client address that problem. Part of the nature of consulting is going into businesses where there are established ways of doing things, and challenging the status quo. Business priorities can change and adapt at hyper-speed, especially in fast-moving fields like technology or social media. Thinking fast and being able to let go of existing ideas and soak up new ones is invaluable in the consulting industry.

The ideal personality traits for this part of your role? Creative, spontaneous and lively. It sounds so simple, but it can take real effort to listen well. As a consultant, you need to take in a huge quantity of new information before you can begin to do your job. A good consultant is his or her own brand, with an established ethos and approach.

Collateral like Flyers , Postcards and even Stickers are a great way to cement your brand identity, as well as market yourself to new clients. Self-promotion is crucial to become a successful consultant. Create unforgettable Business Cards and Letterhead to make a lasting impression. Keep in touch Get design inspiration, business tips and special offers straight to your inbox with our MOOsletter, out every two weeks.

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