Skip to content

Aren’t we all dynamic, focused consultants?

Clive
— 1 min read

Consultancy speak.

We all do it. Some more than others.

Projects framed as … digital transformation … blue sky thinking …

Results described as ... strategy into action … creative collaboration ...

And tired words about our work … dynamic … focused … agile ...

These words don't impress clients.

After all aren’t we all dynamic, focused consultants moving strategy into action with agile blue sky thinking and creative collaboration?

See what I mean?

No. No. No.

These words put clients into a ‘what the heck are they talking about’ trance.

Clients won’t buy what isn’t clear.​

Take a look though your emails, Powerpoint slides, website, and proposals. Look for the big fat consultancy words. Here’s an example:

Business transformation. What is that?

Clients want results and value. Increased revenue. Improved market share. Costs cut. Higher customer satisfaction … or the ability to do different things.

Saying Business Transformation moves us away from describing this value from our contribution. And that’s a pity.

The mini-mission

Check yourself for consultancy speak.

What phrases do you use?

How will you change those to bring more value clarity?

Rethink. Rework
​


The bottom line:

Get real: Consultant speak masks your value.
​Get prepared: Rework consultant speak into results and value.
​Get savvy: Remember clients buy results and value, not buzzwords.

Thanks as always for reading, please consider sharing.

The Influence Briefs

Related Posts

Members Public

Talking too much

I was in a meeting once where I said a lot. Frankly… I just talked too much. Good points. Clear insights. People nodding (off). Afterwards, my boss pulled me to one side and said, “You didn’t hear half of what the client said, did you?” She was right. I’

Members Public

The deluxe service

If you’ve stayed at a posh hotel you may already know about the deluxe services that are available … if you have enough money. And, I’m not talking about a bigger room and well-stocked the mini-bar. That’s nice but with the deluxe service comes a suite

Members Public

What did you try this week that's different?

Just take a moment to answer this question. What did you try this week that's different? And I'm not meaning eating Hákarl (although kudos if you did). I'm meaning a different way to have impact or influence. Most candidates applying for coaching haven'