Qualities of a Consultant

What makes you call yourself a consultant?

Presumably, many of the following traits apply, in no particular order

1. A great deal of confidence. An ability to plunge into waters of unknown depths, an ability to know that if you don't know something, you can find a way. An ability to size up any situation very quickly, and respond appropriately to client concerns, at all levels.

2. The ability to draw lessons. This looks similar to a problem I encountered elsewhere - let me draw parallels and work towards a solution.

3. Extraordinary communication skills. This means outstanding writing skills, incredible listening skills, the ability to draw out someone, a non-threatening body-language vocabulary.

4. A confidence in a basic domain.

5. The ability to demonstrate thought leadership in that domain using Items 1, 2 and 3

6. The willingness to handle change - problems, clients, team, engagement status and so on.

7. Understanding that travel is essential.

8. Active developing of a vast network

9. A willingness to share knowledege, resources and more.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Welcome!

OK, I've just started this blog to focus on ideas and thoughts about Consulting Research.

Whats consulting? Who is a consultant? What makes for a successful consultant? What are - or should be - their competencies at various levels?

What about methodology and checking on an engagement's progress?

I am the Head of Consulting Training and Research at a Large Well-known firm. I'll give my two cents here and hope to interact with those sharing this interest.


All the best!