Remember the signs that will help you distinguish a successful and in-demand consultant from an amateur.
Sign 1. Shows knowledge about the client's company status and problems.
A competent consultant will conduct preliminary research and be aware of the client's main issues and concerns before starting to work with the company.
Among other things, they will have a good understanding of the company's activities and knowledge of market specifics.
Sign 2. Considers and remembers the client's opinion without ignoring objections.
A good specialist always considers and keeps in mind the client's opinion like a number in a mathematical calculation. The client's "pain" is important to them.
An experienced consultant will always listen to your objections and either agree with them or provide well-founded arguments against them. Defending their own viewpoint is not an end in itself for them. The important thing is to solve the client's problem.
Sign 3. Organizes different work areas and provides information about their specifics.
A successful consultant works in several directions at once and moves on all fronts. At the same time, they do not neglect to inform the client about their activities.
A consultant who cannot be seen or heard is a bad one. A professional always communicates and is ready to explain the stages and algorithms of their work to the client in detail.
Sign 4. Talks and asks questions.
A professional consultant is not afraid to ask questions and express their point of view. They are not afraid of being seen as intrusive, overly energetic, or even annoying. Their task is not to please the employees but to improve the client company's operations.