8 characteristics of great consultants: do you have what it takes?

Consulting offers a world of variety, new challenges, and unique opportunities to expand your expertise, network, and professional horizons. But what does it take to thrive in this dynamic environment? What sets great consultants apart from the rest?

At Pauwels Consulting, we believe that being a consultant is not just about your technical skills. It is about embracing certain characteristics that can help you excel, connect with clients, and create lasting value. In this blog, we will walk you through 8 key traits of successful consultants and how you can assess if you have them in your DNA.

The foundation of a great consultant

Consulting might seem like a fast-paced, results-driven career. However, it is not just about getting the job done. It is about how you engage with your clients, your colleagues, and the challenges you face. Great consultants share certain traits that make them adaptable, reliable, and indispensable to their clients.

Now, let us explore the 8 characteristics that define a great consultant.

1. Great consultants are flexible

Adaptability is at the core of consulting. Whether you are stepping into a new project, adjusting to a different work culture, or collaborating with new teams, the best consultants adjust effortlessly. They come in ready to learn and fit into diverse environments, delivering exceptional results every time.

2. Great consultants have great discipline

Great consultants understand the importance of both hard and smart work. They know how to balance deadlines, overcome obstacles, and stay focused. Discipline in consulting is about finding effective solutions quickly while maintaining the highest standards of quality and professionalism.

3. Great consultants are confident

Confidence is key, but not in an egotistical way. The best consultants are sure of their skills and expertise without letting their egos take the lead. They foster trust through collaboration, putting the needs of the team and the client above their own. Confidence allows them to navigate challenges and lead by example, always remaining open to others’ perspectives.

4. Great consultants are persistent

Persistence is a defining trait of successful consultants. They do not back down when faced with challenges. Instead, they embrace them, learning from setbacks and continuing to push forward. Great consultants are resilient, always analyzing and refining their approach to ensure continuous improvement.

5. Great consultants are studious

The world of consulting is ever-evolving, and great consultants are always learning. They stay updated with industry trends, new methodologies, and the latest innovations. This continual learning ensures they are equipped to tackle any challenge and provide their clients with the best possible solutions.

6. Great consultants are resourceful like MacGyver

Think of the resourcefulness of MacGyver. He was able to solve any problem with creativity and the tools at hand. Great consultants share this ability. They bring knowledge, experience, and innovative solutions to each project, adapting to any situation with a resourceful mindset. Whether it is an unexpected hurdle or a new project challenge, resourceful consultants make it happen.

7. Great consultants see the bigger picture

Great consultants have a knack for seeing both the forest and the trees. They bring a fresh perspective to every challenge, helping clients identify opportunities for improvement that others might miss. Their ability to see the big picture enables them to develop solutions that not only address immediate needs but also align with long-term goals.

8. Great consultants are sociable

The best consultants know that success in this role goes beyond technical expertise. It is about building relationships. They listen first and speak second, making sure they understand their clients’ needs before offering solutions. Their ability to build trust and create lasting connections is what truly sets them apart.

A diverse range of consultants

It is important to remember that not all consultants will possess every characteristic to the same degree. We are all human, and we all have unique strengths and areas for growth. The beauty of the consulting world is that it is made up of individuals who bring different experiences, perspectives, and qualities to the table. What makes a consultant truly great is not perfection, but the willingness to learn, adapt, and continually improve. We are grateful for the diversity within our team, as each consultant contributes in their own way, making our work richer and more impactful.

Are you ready to become our next consultant?