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Not just talking, see me walking.

[May 14, 2010]

I feel it’s important as a consulting professional to not just ‘talk the talk’, but to ‘walk the walk’.

I meet a lot of consultants when networking, and always am impressed by the ones whom are straightforward in the areas they excel. For me, I appreciate hearing about two things… what they’ve done, and where they are excited to grow. Both those things say a lot.

What I am not impressed with is a consultant who has a ‘superhero’ complex and sound like they have all the skills and can solve any problem. Let’s be honest it isn’t true, and even if they try, is it really what’s best for the client; of course not.

True Story: Recently I was considered for some work and was given the opportunity to see the resumes/references of a few other candidates. What struck me in this circumstance was seeing these impressive resumes, filled with loads of worldly experience, every acronym and adjective you could want. But when it came to their references (where they could show the walk they have talked); I saw what appeared to be experience different, unrelated, and not representative of the experience they presented. Is it a personal branding issue, or a bit of over-polishing in the resume? Doesn’t really matter.

And here’s the walk: I am now thinking and working on presenting not only what I can do, but what recently I have done, and where I am excited to grow

. I want it visible, to everyone (including current and potential clients).

I am very interested in any thoughts, responses, or suggestions related to this article and undertaking. Have you seen this done well? Please drop me a message via the contact form or my email chad[at]redpointrisk.com.

Thanks as always for reading and responding.