11 tips for consultants on assignment

Here are insights and guidance for those considering a career in consulting, as well as for current consultants. What should you consider when you’re out on a consulting assignment? Is it a smart move to start your career as a consultant right after graduation? And what does it really mean to go “the extra mile”?

This is my second blog post out of two. In the first, I shared insights about the consultant role today and in the future.

Is it possible to start your career as a consultant?

Absolutely! I believe it’s the best career path for a recent graduate. Why? Because you get to try out a variety of assignments, perform different tasks, familiarize yourself with various workplaces and corporate cultures, and meet many people. Plus, you get to network. This way, you can find your niche and what suits you best.

When you’re on assignment, it’s a good idea to take the opportunity to study the company’s operations and see what the different departments do. For example, what does procurement work on? What does the after-sales department do? What tasks do those working in quality management have? And the next time you arrive at a new company, you can get acquainted with the new operation as well. This gives you a better understanding of the different departments and makes it easier to find your niche and discover what you find interesting and enjoyable!

What should a consultant be like, and what is good to keep in mind?

While it’s essential to be yourself, there are several important considerations to keep in mind during an assignment. Here are 11 key points to remember as a consultant on the job.

1. Personal Qualities/Behaviors

It’s beneficial to be self-driven, proactive, flexible, curious, a relationship builder, a problem solver, goal-oriented, eager to learn, attentive, and inquisitive.

• Proactive: During slower periods in your assignment, proactively seek out tasks that might benefit the client or team. For example, this might involve suggesting improvements to workflows or creating manuals for new team members (of course, this should not interfere with your regular responsibilities).
• Curious, Eager to Learn, and Inquisitive: One major reason clients hire consultants is for fresh perspectives, so it’s useful to question things (in a positive way, of course). Ask why things are done a certain way, why a particular program is used, or if there’s a better approach.
• Networking and Building Relationships: Integrating into the team is crucial. Don’t sit alone during breaks; join others. Talk to your colleagues and team members, get to know them, and ask about their weekends. Suggest after-work activities or organize an evening event. One of the best parts of being a consultant, in my opinion, is the opportunity to attend after-work events with both your consulting colleagues and the client’s team. How awesome is that?
• Self-Driven: It’s always advantageous for the client if you can work independently and tackle problems on your own or at least make an effort to solve issues by yourself. For instance, if you need access to a certain program, contact IT support directly instead of just informing the client that you can’t start the program.
• Flexible: Being flexible is a significant advantage because it allows the client to place you where reinforcement is needed. If you communicate that you are willing to help wherever necessary, the client will greatly appreciate your adaptability.

2. The Willingness to Go the Extra Mile

One principle I’ve always embraced in my consulting assignments is to go “the extra mile.” But what does this mean, and how can you implement it?

When you’re settled in with your team and familiar with your environment, consider doing something extra, like organizing a breakfast or a coffee break. Or why not hold a seminar or a lecture on a specific area where you feel the team could benefit from more expertise?

However, going the extra mile doesn’t always have to involve organizing a breakfast or seminar. It could also mean taking on additional responsibilities that fall outside your original scope. This might include tackling tasks that others in the team haven’t had time for or addressing observed inefficiencies.

You might be thinking, “Why should I take on extra tasks? I’m not getting paid for that.” While you might not receive immediate payment for these extra efforts, you gain valuable learning experiences and the opportunity to interact with new people. Additionally, there’s significant potential for the client to want to work with you again in the future.

3. Leverage the Expertise Within Your Consulting Firm

If you encounter a challenging issue at work or come across a software you’re unfamiliar with, seek help from your colleagues within the consulting firm. There’s likely someone who can assist you with your challenge.

Additionally, I want to highlight the importance of being a mentor, coach, or sounding board for others within the consulting firm. It’s a rewarding experience for both parties involved.

4. Be Eager to Learn and Stay Updated

As a consultant, it’s important to stay current with the latest technology and software, and to be one step ahead of the client.

5. Keep a Journal – In Case the Project Leader is Absent

If you’re on assignment and notice that the client is not sufficiently present, it’s a good idea to keep a journal on a weekly or monthly basis and send it to the client. Document what you’ve done, observed, learned, and contributed, among other things. With many people working remotely today, updating the client on your activities can be very helpful.

6. Promote Yourself and Your Consulting Firm

Another important aspect to keep in mind is that you represent not only yourself but also your consulting firm. For example, if you and your consulting company organize a breakfast in the break room, employees from other departments might notice and think, “How exciting that this company is hosting something. Who are they?” This way, you are also promoting your consulting firm.

7. Ask for Feedback Regularly

Continuously seek feedback and provide it to the client as needed.

8. Own Your Professional Development

As a consultant, you are responsible for your own professional growth. Take initiative to learn and stay updated on new technologies and software. Consider enrolling in an evening course or an online course to enhance your skills.

9. Plan for the future

As a consultant, it’s important to plan ahead for the next three to five months in terms of your assignments. Where do you want to be in five months? It’s easy to become focused on your current assignment, but always keep looking forward and strive for new goals. Consider what you want your next assignment to be like.

10. Evaluate After Each Assignment

Assess your performance after each assignment. What did you do well? What could you have done better? What lessons can you carry forward to your next assignment?

11. Keep Up with Industry Trends

Pay close attention to the client’s challenges. You might have ideas on how to assist them. By listening closely and staying attuned to the latest developments you can uncover new business opportunities.

As a consultant, you’re on-site and interacting with the client daily. Since you have the best understanding of the situation, consider helping the consulting manager with insights and information you gather.