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?