You’re interested in project management. How can you develop your skills in Consulting?

1 Understand the client's needs

The first step to becoming a better consultant is to understand the client's needs, expectations, and objectives. This means asking the right questions, listening actively, and clarifying any assumptions or gaps. You also need to understand the context, culture, and constraints of the client's situation, and how your project fits into their broader strategy and goals. By understanding the client's needs, you can tailor your approach, scope, and deliverables to meet them and create value.

2 Apply a structured framework

The second step to becoming a better consultant is to apply a structured framework to your project. A framework is a set of tools, methods, and principles that help you organize your thinking, analyze the problem, and generate solutions. There are many frameworks available, such as SWOT, PESTEL, Porter's Five Forces, or McKinsey's 7S. The key is to choose a framework that suits your project's objectives, scope, and complexity, and use it consistently and rigorously throughout the project.

3 Communicate effectively

The third step to becoming a better consultant is to communicate effectively with your client and other stakeholders. Communication is essential for building trust, rapport, and credibility, as well as for sharing information, feedback, and recommendations. You need to communicate clearly, concisely, and persuasively, using appropriate language, tone, and style. You also need to communicate frequently, timely, and transparently, using various channels and formats, such as emails, reports, presentations, or meetings.

4 Manage the project efficiently

The fourth step to becoming a better consultant is to manage the project efficiently. This means planning, executing, monitoring, and controlling the project activities, resources, budget, and timeline. You need to use project management tools and techniques, such as Gantt charts, work breakdown structures, risk registers, or agile methodologies. You also need to manage the expectations, scope, and quality of the project, and handle any issues, changes, or risks that may arise.

5 Deliver value and impact

The fifth step to becoming a better consultant is to deliver value and impact to your client. This means delivering the project outcomes and outputs that meet or exceed the client's requirements and expectations. You need to measure and demonstrate the value and impact of your project, using quantitative and qualitative indicators, such as cost savings, revenue growth, customer satisfaction, or employee engagement. You also need to ensure the sustainability and transferability of your project results, by providing documentation, training, or support.

6 Learn and improve

The sixth and final step to becoming a better consultant is to learn and improve from your project experience. This means reflecting on your project performance, identifying your strengths and weaknesses, and seeking feedback from your client and other stakeholders. You need to use the feedback to improve your consulting skills, knowledge, and processes, and to address any gaps or areas for development. You also need to celebrate your achievements, recognize your contributions, and share your learnings and best practices.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?