The Practice of Professional Consulting by Edward G. Verlander

by Edward G. Verlander

The Practice of Professional Coaching Change is the life-blood of consulting just as organizations endure only through successful change. The reality of this mutual need lies at the heart of what consulting is all about. Consultants solve problems created by the powerful forces of change in an organization's environment and in so doing, create change themselves. The Practice of Professional Consulting is a comprehensive examination of what has been called "the world's newest profession." In this practical resource Edward Verlander offers an overview of the industry and includes the most useful processes, tools, and skills used by successful consultants to produce solutions for their clients. The book also reveals why consulting is a growing and attractive career option. The best practices used by leading consulting firms are included in the book as well as the capabilities skillful consultant use in each stage of engagement. Verlander also recommends ways to ensure a consultant can solve a client's problems in a systematic, professional way. At the very heart of the book is the emphasis he puts on what is needed to become a truly trusted consultant. Filled with a wealth of must-have information from a wide range of consulting professionals, the book a model of the consulting cycle; a diagnostic instrument for assessing consulting roles; ideas of how to develop political intelligence to navigate client organizations; tools for managing consulting meetings, risk assessment, and skills transfer; techniques in communications, emotional intelligence, presentations, and listening; and much more. Written for anyone wishing to start a consulting business, new employees at established consulting firms, facilitators of consulting training programs, and faculty at business schools, this important resource provides an easy way to understand the stages, roles, and tasks of consulting found in any type of consulting and it provides simple and easy-to-use techniques and templates for implementation.

Unknown Binding

First published September 28, 2012

Reviews

[Sharriette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since this book helped me earn a grade of A in a Human Resources Consulting course I completed, then I rate the book 5-star. Really, this is a good and helpful book. Though I'm still growing in understanding, this book provided a solid foundation for effectively pulling information together in the most presentable way for a final group project. The advice in the book is sound and it works, even when there is resistance. Yes, this book even offered advice on how to navigate resistance. I recommend it.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book for every business person to own!

[Leona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent.