Do we consult? Technically, yes. 

However, when I started this business, I made an active decision to describe what I do as ‘unconsulting’.

Because frankly, there is a lot of really subpar consulting happening out there that I didn’t want to be associated with. 

To be downright blunt, a lot of consultants suck at consulting.

The consulting world is an easy target for big egos, copy & paste solutions, and resting on your laurels. Consultants are the ones who come in when you’re waving the white flag. They are the new kid in class, with little understanding of the core issues. 

And these issues? They needed to be fixed yesterday, adding further urgency to an already pressing situation.

This “just do what ya gotta do” approach to consulting might suit some organizations just fine. Or they might not even notice until months later when the same issues resurface and the consultant in question has long since moved on to their next victim.

The truth: There’s a better way.

Unconsulting is about diving deep into client needs and delivering operational solutions that truly make a difference. Here are three crucial tips every consultant should embrace to excel and build robust client relationships.

Check Your Ego at the Door

Consultants often feel like superheroes, swooping in to save the day, clean up unseen messes, and make things (themselves included) shine. It’s no wonder this can lead to egos that dominate the room. But remember, consulting isn’t about the consultant; it’s about the client.

Instead of assuming they have all the right answers, consultants should be focused on asking the right questions. They should embrace silence to allow for thoughtful responses.

Consultants should not rush to fill the void with their own ideas but rather actively listen to their clients’ insights.

Respond Instead of React

Once a consultant has gathered all the necessary information, they need to take time to assess it thoroughly and explore all possibilities. Remember, the client holds the decision-making power, not the consultant. A consultant’s role is to provide clients with the insights and tools they need to make informed decisions.

My advice to consultants: Avoid reacting impulsively. Acting on impulse may lead you to suggest the first idea that comes to mind, rather than what is truly required. Instead, focus on creating customized strategies that thoughtfully and intentionally respond to the clients’ unique challenges and goals. This approach helps build trust and establishes a path forward that aligns with their needs.

Find Creative Solutions

Every client is unique, and their problems demand customized solutions. Meaningful and revolutionary change hinges on consultants getting out of their own way. 

Here’s an example. Imagine a small restaurant in a city known for its innovative food scene. The restaurant has a prime location and a talented team of chefs, but it’s been doing the same thing for years, and business is going downhill.

On top of that, the local health and safety codes are strict and expensive to comply with, making it tough for them to evolve in ways that could bring in new customers and reinvent their image, like having an open kitchen or setting up outdoor cooking stations.

Within the restaurant’s management team, two camps emerge. One says, “Rules are rules; there’s nothing we can do about them, and it’ll be too hard to find a way.” They’ve resigned themselves to the situation, believing there is nothing they can do.

The other group, however, starts thinking differently. They ask, “If we can’t change the rules, can we change how we play within them?” Instead of seeing the regulations as a roadblock, they seek creative solutions. They start exploring ideas like pop-up events and tasting menus that not only comply with the regulations but also offer something special and memorable to guests.

The more cautious team members are skeptical. They worry these new ideas are impractical or too risky. But the more adventurous group doesn’t give up. They show that by reimagining their approach and being innovative, they can still create new experiences that attract customers and keep the restaurant buzzing — even when stuck in a web of red tape.

When you can’t change the rules of the game, you can change the way you play. With a little creativity and a willingness to try new things, you can transform the situation and find success. It’s all about being adaptable and thinking outside the box.

The Showpiece Difference: Flipping Traditional Consulting on Its Head

Effective consulting is about building trust, understanding client needs, and crafting solutions that leave a legacy.

By embracing humility, active listening, and a commitment to personalized strategies, Showpiece Solutions has been able to achieve encore-worthy results for our clients.

Is this the approach that your business needs? Partner with Showpiece Solutions and experience the difference. Reach out to us today to start building solutions that create lasting success.