7 IT Consulting Rules to Master

IT consulting gurus understand the business isn’t all about golfing and happy hours. Expert IT consulting services involve thankless work, unexpected detours, and changing goals.

However, as an IT consultant or IT economist, the job can be fulfilling as you improve your client’s bottom line. While there’s no exact guidebook for IT consulting, here we’re gathering a few pro tips and ideas to enhance your IT consulting services and gain the respect of clients.

1.    The Client Defines Success – Not You

Each project brings its own IT consulting hurdles and challenges to deliver the right solution on time and on budget. But keep in mind, with each contract you sign, the client is the hero and they define success.

As a consultant, your role is a mentor. The goal is guiding your clients to ensure they succeed on their terms. You may be held to a definition of success made by multiple parties involved in the project – the IT manager, the production manager, inventory specialists, CFO, and more. Every person may have a different goal in mind.

2.    Actively Listen to All Vantage Points

Each player in a project has an issue to be solved. Actively listen to understand the role and environment of each person.

At the same time, be discerning. Some feedback may be speculation and fantasy. Be aware, but don’t dwell on them. Take note of unusual or unexpected issues that come up. These could double as a problem and an opportunity.

3.    Respect Your Client’s Privacy and Reputation

Never mention your client’s name to others without permission. They may not want other groups, including their competitors, knowing they work with you. Talking about other clients who use your IT consulting services can sometimes come back to haunt you.

4.    Keep Up the Momentum

Certain stages of a project may be technical and require more time to absorb. Give yourself and the client time, but be mindful of momentum.

Don’t wait too long to connect. Take smaller steps if needed to keep moving in the right direction.

5.    Maintain Great Communication

Connections stay strong through effective and responsive communication. Don’t waste anyone’s time with unnecessary meetings and don’t waste a client’s time with unnecessary requests. Above all, don’t waste your own time doing nonproductive activities, even when requested by the client.

6.    Always Be Truthful

Speak the truth, even when they don’t want to hear it. The truth should be a window of opportunity, not a hammer.

While no one wants to receive bad news, especially if it results from their actions, the news still needs to be delivered. Remember, it’s not your job to shield your client from unpleasant facts.

7.    Turn the Other Cheek

Regardless of if the project ends as planned or unexpectedly, be grateful for the trust and work received. Make sure the client has everything they need to continue without you and always keep a professional and helpful demeanor.

Looking for professional IT consulting services? We can help. Get in touch with Advanced Systems Group to learn more.