30 North Michigan Avenue
Suite 824
Chicago, IL 60602
voice: 312-558-4700
fax: 312-558-4797
© 2006 Dynamic
Management Solutions, Inc.
- A proven track record of success at the top levels of the business world
- The ethics of a judge
- The insights of a psychologist
- The tact of a diplomat
On top of that, you need to find them approachable with your most difficult business issues.
To find a management consultant who is a good fit for you, ask yourself if he or she has the following traits:
Business
Acumen
Has the consultant been there and done that – at the top levels of
business – for at least five to 10 years? It’s the only way they’ll
know what you’re facing in your work and how to successfully navigate
it.
Emotional
Intelligence
Does the consultant listen well, and know how to deal with difficult
personalities -- bullies and people-pleasers alike? Is your
consultant empathetic to what you are going through – and know how to
advocate on your behalf?
Trust
You need confidentiality with your high-level, confidential business
and personal information – and the confidence that your consultant will
tell you exactly what you need to hear, no matter how difficult.
Political
Astuteness
In complex political situations, your consultant needs to have an
intimate understanding of the dynamics and strategies for dealing
effectively with them. Your consultant must understand the
context of your business in order to advise you effectively.
Flexibility
Textbook answers don’t work for real-life situations, so a business
consultant needs to know how to tailor advice for you
personally. When your situation changes, can the consultant
be flexible to change strategies and suggestions on the spot?
Accountability
One of the greatest benefits of consulting is having someone else -
besides yourself - measure the progress of your goals. A lack of
accountability is what makes most New Year's resolutions fail within
the first few days... because if you never told anyone about your
resolutions in the first place, you're off the hook if you break them.
Your consultant should be there to ask “why” if you don't meet your
objectives. Then, your consultant should help you understand what needs
to be done to get back on track.
Unflappability
Can your consultant keep his or her cool
under the tremendous financial, political and lifestyle pressures we
face in our lives – and teach you to do the same?
Insightfulness
Wisdom comes from experience, and insight
is the added ability to convey that wisdom to you on both your
individual goals and the goals of the organization. Insight
doesn’t come from a textbook but from having been there – and knowing
how to apply principles to your situation.
