Basics of Business Consulting

Consulting as a profession and a function within many organizations has transformed in recent years. Clients engage consultants for different reasons and expect outstanding results. Organizations use them for improving performance, growing their business, and making various organizational changes. This course will cover topics from the client and consultant view: required core skills, personal characteristics, the basic processes, engagement and risk management, variations in consulting companies, what to look for in using a consultant (internal or external), and ethics. Project managers frequently perform in the role of consultant, whether they are from within the organization or from an external firm. Understanding consulting processes will help project managers perform more effectively. Performing as the external consultant can be a different role than being a consulting from an internal department. While the general overall process is the same, there is a different style - both will be covered.