Elevate Your Consulting Game
Understanding the Intricacies of Consulting and Management through the Lens of Strategy and Performance Consultant Ryan Schaffer
The world of management consulting is dynamic and ever-evolving, offering a unique blend of challenges and opportunities for those who dare to venture into it. In a recent episode of the Schmidt List podcast, host Kurt Schmidt delves into this intricate field with Ryan Schaffer, a seasoned strategy and performance consultant. Let's explore the wealth of insights shared throughout this enlightening conversation.
Defining the Role of a Management Consultant
Kurt Schmidt begins by asking Ryan Schaffer about his journey into management consulting. Ryan is a "rentable chief operating officer" who seamlessly adapts to various client needs. His journey wasn't a result of a master plan but rather a series of seemingly random transitions between consulting and executive roles. According to Ryan, this fluidity is essential as it allows professionals to build solutions and bridge gaps in industries that need innovation.
For those new to consulting, Ryan explains the distinct roles within the industry: the independent contractor and the team-oriented management consultant. Contractors often work solo, while management consultants like Ryan collaborate with various specialists to develop comprehensive solutions for clients.
Why Companies Turn to Consultants
One intriguing aspect of consulting discussed is why companies opt for external consultants instead of hiring in-house. According to Ryan, companies often reach for consultants during crises such as mergers, leadership changes, or significant market disruptions like the advent of artificial intelligence. Consultants can serve as extra hands, thought partners, or booster rockets, helping businesses navigate these challenges effectively.
However, Ryan warns against over-reliance on external help, stressing that consultants lack the organization's deep-rooted knowledge and culture. As he puts it, while consultants can be fast and efficient problem solvers, the onus of long-term success lies in the company's DNA and internal people.
The Intersection of Change Management and Consulting
Much of the discussion is dedicated to change management, which Ryan initially viewed skeptically. Over time, he realized the human aspect of change management is critical in ensuring the success of any solution. For consultants, gaining buy-in from a client’s team by genuinely listening and respecting their contributions is key. As Ryan emphasizes, empathy plays a crucial role here; understanding the culture and the fears of those involved can make or break the effectiveness of the solutions proposed.
The Role of Consultants in a Company’s Journey
Interestingly, Ryan discusses the appropriate moment for consultants to leave a project. One mark of a successful consultant is determining when their value has been fully realized and when it's time for the company's internal team to take the reins. As Ryan states, "I think the best consulting shops are good at working themselves right out of the job."
Advice for Aspiring Consultants
For those contemplating a career in consulting, Ryan offers thoughtful advice. He highlights the importance of determining whether one prefers independent work or thrives in a team-dependent environment. Understanding the personal and professional trade-offs between internal and external roles is critical.
Ryan also highlights the inherent nature of consulting as a form of mercenary work, where consultants help solve problems but rarely see the long-term impact of their efforts within an organization. Therefore, one must assess if problem-solving is inherently satisfying even without witnessing the long-term results.
Conclusion: Embracing Both Challenges and Rewards
Venturing into consulting offers a set of unique challenges but also substantial rewards. As highlighted in the conversation between Ryan Schaffer and Kurt Schmidt, the role requires a delicate balance between confidence, curiosity, strategy, and empathy. Those willing to embrace these attributes find consulting a thrilling and fulfilling career path.
Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on the Schmidt List, where industry leaders share their journeys and lessons. Whether you're a potential consultant or an organization considering consulting services, there's always something new to learn from the diverse voices featured on this podcast.
Connect with Ryan! linkedin.com/in/ryanschafer77
