It should not be just technical; instead the consultant should possess certain character traits in order to be successful in his or her endeavors in the consultancy arena.
The author mentions four critical skills a consultant should develop. These skills are:
- Advisory
- Technical
- Business
- Communication
Advisory: Clients rely in the consultant advise in order to be successful in their business. Consultants are professionals like doctors, lawyers, and engineers; and just like they do, consultants spend a great amount of time explaining complicated concepts difficult to understand to others.
Technical: According to the author, technical advice in IT is a lifetime learning experience. These skills are the core of all training, certifications, and diplomas. Technical expertise is a process, not an event.
Business Skills: Currently it is common to find technical experts who lack an understanding of business issues. Sometimes IT consultants have never practiced any business techniques at all, and sometimes managers do not find these skills important to the IT function. Consultants who have some knowledge about the client's industry, business history, etc. create a positive impression of an experienced and competent professional.
Communication: Consulting is COMMUNICATION! Without a clear, open, direct, and effective communication between the consultant and the client, the consultation process cannot take place.
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