Some relationships in the professional world are all business. Others are more involved, including mutual interests, and shared experiences. Consultants have to practice reading the social style of their business partners in order to leverage their strengths, tailor interactions, and create a working relationship that reflects the style and needs of each individual customer.
Internal consultants need to have a systematic approach–We need to deliver consistent service, and excellent results, using tools and methods that build collaboration, buy-in and support. But to create trusting, working relationships with our customers, we need to deliver our products and services with a personal touch too. That’s where leveraging your strengths comes in.
In every consulting situation Howick Associates relies on our natural curiosity and willingness to ask questions to help us define the scope of work. But we use those skills to get to know our clients, and create relationships with them. By demonstrating our real interest with questions and dialogue, we can differentiate ourselves from others, and provide more personal service.
I’ve added a video link here to YouTube. This is a short, inspirational video on how one individual leveraged his strengths to create a more personal service, even though he was “just a bagger.”
Consider your natural talents, and identify one or two strengths you can use to make a difference in your professional relationships. Share your ideas with others through comments on this site!