Why is being authentic in consulting important?
The importance of authenticity in consultancy cannot be over-emphasized. From the sheer perspective of a consultant’s own integrity, clients value honesty and dependability and therefore are highly likely to offer return business to a consultant they know is being truthful and fair. As Block (2000) puts it, authentic behavior is the willingness to be who you are, which is one of the most powerful tools in the consultant’s repertoire that helps to establish ongoing and meaningful relationships with his or her client. For example, trying to be too ‘clever’ or over-confident will undermine or mask your authenticity. Authenticity also involves being committed to the goals and purposes of the project, because being genuinely interested and invested in its outcomes shows a level of realism and authenticity that a consultant’s client will value.
What is the promise of flawless consulting and what does it mean to you personally ?
The promise of flawless consulting is based upon some fundamental principles of consulting that, if followed, can just about guarantee your delivery as a consultant. Being competent in the contracting phase, the discovery phase and then the full feedback loop between yourself an your client are the key underpinning strategies. As Block (2000) outlines, the establishment of collaborative relationships. solving problems effectively, and making sure that you (as a consultant) remain attentive to the project and the relationship with your client are fundamental. A consultant also needs to recognize the vulnerability that he or she may face as a result of external forces such as economic downturns, or tricky co-workers, but this is all the more reason to ensure he or she remains authentic and true to task.
This is important to me personally because I recognize the value of a strong relationship with a client, and that it is imperative that I do everything in my professional power to ensure that I establish and maintain good relationships. Block (2000) made a point which struck a chord with me and that is, consulting can’t be done well without genuinely caring for your client. Thus, in my mind, is the foundation of flawless consulting and the hallmark of an authentic consultant. It is important to me as I will strive to incorporate this into my professional life when dealing with clients.
What is the business of the contracting phase? What are the 8 competencies?
This phase involves several competencies. All of which are vital, as any failures during this phase can be fatal to the project. Setting up the initial meeting with client, determining their needs and requirements and attempting to establish what the problem is (all the while being mindful, as the consultant, what the solution or solutions might be). From there, determining if you are the appropriate consultant for the job is imperative. For example, do you have the right skill-set? Are there any conflicts of interest that you would need to resolve or declare before taking on the work ? This phase is very important as it sets the groundwork for a successful consultant/client relationship and is the opportunity to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Fees should also be discussed as part of the contracting phase.
Going forward, a full inventory of the client’s requirements and expectations needs then to be established and shared in a collaborative manner so that everyone involved can agree this list. At this stage it is also useful for the consultant to set out his or her expectations and a draft timeline for the project (in particular the starting date).
Works cited
Block, P. (2011). Flawless consulting: A guide to getting your expertise used. John Wiley &
Sons.
