Creating the right expectations upfront is a good start for any relationship. This includes the professional relationship of a consulting assignment.
1. An advisor is not a friend
Consultancy is not a kindness among friends. If you only need a consultant to do exactly as you say, then you don’t need a consultant. The added value of external advise is precisely based on new insights and methods.
2. An advisor is not a colleague
An advisor does not solve problems; that’s up to you. That way you remain independent. Our co-operation should be based on translating the consultant’s models, theories and practices in order to implement them in your organisation. So an advisor is best referred to as a catalyst.
3. Do we click with each other?
Plain and simple. Do we hit it off enough to work together? Do we speak the same language? The extent of our co-operation mostly determines the success of the assignment. The more an advisor knows about your organisation, the more he will be able to understand you and help you.
4. Step by step
Change journeys are long-term assignments with ups and downs. ‘Slowly but surely’ is our motto. Don’t expect major leaps or big hits. Success is a consistent series of small victories.
