As the consultant industry grows and gains more attention, consultant jobs are becoming more competitive. It is because of this that you must make yourself stand out. The respected consultant, the ''go to'' guy, is the star, the one with the answers. In consulting jobs throughout the various fields, the ''go to'' consultants consistently displays a certain set of behaviors, regardless of the discipline.
The ''go to'' consultant is an expert in their field. Consultant careers are very competitive and have little true regulation. Therefore, the ''expert'' in the field will rise to the top when it comes to being sought after for jobs. The ''go to'' consultant wears many hats and can do so with finesse. It may be necessary to shift gears from time to time, multi tasking and getting the job done. The ''go to'' consultant has all the answers, regardless of the question or crisis. Creativity in problem solving is a hallmark trait as is the ability to quickly and effortlessly change directions on a dime.
The ''go to'' consultant is adept at conflict resolution. With powerful skills in objectivity, explaining the viewpoints of others and persuasion, they have their clients' complete trust. The ''go to'' consultant understands that success or failure resides solely within their own actions. They are constantly challenging themselves, reaching higher, running farther and working harder than the rest of the pack. The ''go to'' consultant embraces change. This consultant sees change as an opportunity to grow instead of a hurdle to overcome. They maintain exceptional performance standards and continue to rise.
The ''go to'' consultant is a motivational force. Consulting jobs are part hard work, part implementation of knowledge and experience; and part inspiration. Without the three parts working together, the total picture is incomplete. Motivation and inspiration adds passion and color to ideas and dreams, driving their conceptualists and dreamers to bring them into reality.
Consultant jobs are plentiful and the aspiring consultant can pretty much have his or her pick of industry and field. However, the lackadaisical consultant, the one who is lukewarm and not willing to jump in with both feet, giving it their all, will likely not rise to the top as a ''go to'' person. They will sit on the sidelines, watching the world pass them by. So, when you are considering consultant careers, ask yourself this question: Do you want to be a star or a benchwarmer? The choice is yours. It is all a matter of trust.
