In the ever-evolving world of consulting, knowledge is power. But beyond textbooks and case studies, some of the most profound insights come from the lived experiences of those who have walked the consulting path and emerged as leaders in the field. Interviews with consulting experts offer a rare glimpse into the strategies, challenges, and successes that have shaped their careers. These conversations are more than just Q&A sessions—they are deep dives into the minds of those who have redefined the industry.
This article brings together eight must-read interviews with consulting luminaries who have left an indelible mark on the industry. These interviews aren’t just informative; they’re transformative. They provide practical wisdom, candid reflections, and actionable advice that can elevate your consulting practice to new heights. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, seeking new strategies, or simply curious about the minds behind the success, these interviews are essential reading for any consultant.
So, if you’re ready to tap into the collective wisdom of consulting’s best and brightest, keep reading. Each interview is a treasure trove of insights that can help you navigate the complexities of the consulting world and achieve your own success.
The Strategic Mind: An Interview with Michael Porter
Michael Porter is a name synonymous with strategy. As the father of modern competitive strategy and a professor at Harvard Business School, Porter’s insights have influenced countless businesses and consultants alike. In this interview, Porter delves into the essence of competitive advantage and the importance of understanding industry forces.
Porter begins by discussing the core of his Five Forces Framework, a model that has become a staple in strategic consulting. He emphasizes that true competitive advantage is not just about being the best, but about being unique. Porter’s insights are particularly relevant for consultants who are helping clients navigate crowded markets. He advises that consultants should focus on identifying and leveraging their clients’ unique strengths rather than merely competing on price or efficiency. This approach can lead to sustainable success in any industry.
One of the standout moments in the interview is when Porter discusses the common pitfalls that companies face when trying to implement strategy. He points out that many businesses fail because they lack a clear understanding of their own competitive position. For consultants, this is a crucial lesson: before advising clients on strategy, it’s essential to conduct a thorough analysis of their competitive landscape. Porter’s advice is to dig deep, ask the tough questions, and ensure that the strategy is rooted in a solid understanding of both the industry and the company’s place within it.
Porter also touches on the future of strategy in an increasingly digital world. He acknowledges the transformative impact of technology but warns against the temptation to focus solely on digital innovation at the expense of a coherent strategy. According to Porter, the principles of competitive strategy remain as relevant as ever, even in a rapidly changing business environment. For consultants, this means balancing the excitement of new technologies with the timeless fundamentals of strategic thinking.
The Art of Client Relationships: An Interview with David Maister
David Maister is a consulting legend, known for his expertise in professional services and client relationships. In this candid interview, Maister shares his insights on what it takes to build and maintain strong client relationships—an area that is often the make-or-break factor in consulting success.
Maister begins by highlighting the importance of trust in client relationships. He argues that trust is not something that can be demanded or assumed; it must be earned through consistent actions. For consultants, this means delivering on promises, being transparent about challenges, and always putting the client’s best interests first. Maister’s emphasis on trust resonates deeply in an industry where long-term relationships are crucial to sustained success.
Another key theme in the interview is the concept of empathy. Maister believes that truly understanding a client’s needs and concerns is the foundation of effective consulting. He advises consultants to listen more than they talk, to ask open-ended questions, and to genuinely care about the client’s outcomes. This empathetic approach not only strengthens relationships but also leads to better solutions, as consultants are better able to tailor their advice to the client’s unique situation.
Maister also discusses the balance between being a trusted advisor and a candid critic. He acknowledges that consultants sometimes have to deliver tough messages, but he stresses that how these messages are delivered can make all the difference. According to Maister, it’s possible to be both honest and tactful, ensuring that difficult truths are conveyed in a way that fosters understanding rather than defensiveness. This balance is a skill that all consultants should strive to master.
Finally, Maister shares his thoughts on the evolving nature of client relationships in the digital age. While technology has made communication more efficient, he warns against relying too heavily on digital interactions at the expense of personal connections. Face-to-face meetings, even in a virtual world, remain essential for building the deep trust and understanding that successful consulting relationships are built on.
Navigating Change: An Interview with John Kotter
John Kotter is widely regarded as the leading authority on change management, a critical area of expertise for any consultant. In this interview, Kotter shares his insights on the dynamics of organizational change and the role of consultants in guiding companies through transformation.
Kotter begins by emphasizing the importance of urgency in driving change. He argues that one of the most common reasons why change initiatives fail is a lack of urgency. Without a sense of urgency, organizations tend to fall into complacency, which can derail even the most well-thought-out plans. For consultants, this means that part of their role is to help create and sustain a sense of urgency within the client organization. Whether through data-driven insights, compelling narratives, or strategic interventions, consultants must keep the momentum of change alive.
One of the most powerful moments in the interview is when Kotter discusses the concept of a guiding coalition. He explains that successful change initiatives require a diverse group of leaders who are committed to the change and who have the influence to drive it forward. For consultants, this means working closely with a cross-functional team of leaders within the client organization, ensuring that they are aligned and motivated to support the change. Kotter’s advice is clear: without a strong guiding coalition, change efforts are unlikely to succeed.
Kotter also highlights the importance of communication in managing change. He argues that one of the biggest challenges in change management is ensuring that the message of change is understood and embraced at all levels of the organization. For consultants, this means not only crafting a clear and compelling narrative but also ensuring that it is communicated consistently and effectively throughout the organization. Kotter’s insights underscore the critical role that communication plays in the success of any change initiative.
Finally, Kotter reflects on the future of change management in a rapidly changing world. He acknowledges that the pace of change is accelerating, making it more challenging for organizations to keep up. However, he also believes that the principles of effective change management remain constant. For consultants, this means staying grounded in the fundamentals of change management while being agile enough to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
The Power of Data: An Interview with Thomas Davenport
Thomas Davenport is a pioneer in the field of data analytics and its application in business strategy. In this insightful interview, Davenport explores the transformative power of data and how consultants can harness it to drive better decision-making and outcomes for their clients.
Davenport begins by discussing the evolution of data analytics from a niche discipline to a central component of business strategy. He argues that data has become the new currency of business, and those who can effectively leverage it will have a significant competitive advantage. For consultants, this means that data literacy is no longer optional—it’s essential. Davenport emphasizes the importance of understanding not just how to collect and analyze data, but also how to translate those insights into actionable strategies that drive business value.
One of the key takeaways from the interview is Davenport’s emphasis on the human element of data analytics. He argues that while data can provide valuable insights, it is ultimately humans who must interpret and act on those insights. For consultants, this means developing the ability to bridge the gap between data and decision-making. It’s not enough to present data-driven insights; consultants must also help their clients understand what those insights mean for their business and how to use them to make informed decisions.
Davenport also explores the ethical considerations of data analytics. He acknowledges that with great power comes great responsibility, and that the use of data must be guided by ethical principles. For consultants, this means ensuring that data is used in a way that respects privacy, avoids bias, and promotes fairness. Davenport’s insights highlight the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in the increasingly data-driven world of consulting.
Finally, Davenport discusses the future of data analytics and its implications for the consulting industry. He predicts that as data becomes more integrated into every aspect of business, the role of the consultant will increasingly involve helping clients navigate the complexities of data-driven decision-making. For consultants, this means staying at the forefront of data analytics trends and continuously developing their skills to provide the most relevant and impactful advice to their clients.
Leadership in Consulting: An Interview with Ram Charan
Ram Charan is a highly respected business consultant and author, known for his work with top CEOs and his expertise in leadership. In this interview, Charan shares his thoughts on what it takes to be an effective leader in the consulting industry and how consultants can cultivate leadership qualities in themselves and their clients.
Charan begins by discussing the unique challenges of leadership in consulting. He argues that unlike in a corporate setting, where leaders have formal authority, consultants must lead by influence. This requires a different set of skills, including the ability to build trust, communicate effectively, and inspire others to take action. For consultants, this means developing the ability to lead without relying on formal power structures, and instead, using their expertise, credibility, and interpersonal skills to guide their clients.
One of the standout moments in the interview is when Charan discusses the importance of adaptability in leadership. He argues that the most effective leaders are those who can adapt to changing circumstances and pivot their strategies as needed. For consultants, this means being flexible and open to new ideas, and being willing to adjust their approach when the situation demands it. Charan’s insights highlight the importance of being agile in a rapidly changing business environment.
Charan also explores the role of emotional intelligence in leadership. He argues that while technical skills are important, it is emotional intelligence that sets great leaders apart. For consultants, this means developing the ability to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. Charan’s advice is to cultivate empathy, self-awareness, and resilience, as these qualities are essential for building strong relationships and leading effectively in the consulting industry.
Finally, Charan reflects on the future of leadership in consulting. He predicts that as the consulting industry becomes more complex and fast-paced, the demand for strong, adaptable leaders will only increase. For consultants, this means continuously developing their leadership skills and staying ahead of the curve in terms of industry trends and best practices. Charan’s insights provide valuable guidance for consultants who aspire to be leaders in their field.
Building a Brand: An Interview with David Aaker
David Aaker is often referred to as the father of modern branding. In this compelling interview, Aaker delves into the principles of brand building and how consultants can help their clients create and sustain powerful brands in an increasingly competitive market.
Aaker begins by discussing the foundational elements of a strong brand. He argues that at the core of any successful brand is a clear and compelling value proposition. For consultants, this means helping clients define what makes their brand unique and how it meets the needs of their target audience. Aaker emphasizes the importance of consistency in branding, both in terms of messaging and customer experience. Consultants play a key role in ensuring that every touchpoint reinforces the brand’s core values and promise.
One of the key insights from the interview is Aaker’s discussion of brand equity. He explains that brand equity is not just about awareness or recognition; it’s about the emotional connection that customers have with a brand. For consultants, this means going beyond the surface-level aspects of branding and focusing on how to create deep, meaningful relationships between the brand and its customers. Aaker’s advice is to invest in building brand equity over time, as it is a key driver of long-term business success.
Aaker also explores the role of innovation in brand building. He argues that while consistency is important, brands must also evolve and innovate to stay relevant in a changing market. For consultants, this means helping clients balance the need for consistency with the need for innovation. Aaker’s insights highlight the importance of staying attuned to market trends and being willing to take risks in order to keep the brand fresh and relevant.
Finally, Aaker discusses the future of branding in a digital world. He acknowledges that the rise of digital channels has transformed the way brands interact with customers, creating both opportunities and challenges. For consultants, this means helping clients navigate the complexities of digital branding, from social media strategy to online reputation management. Aaker’s insights provide valuable guidance for consultants who are helping clients build and sustain strong brands in the digital age.
The Human Side of Consulting: An Interview with Ed Schein
Ed Schein is a renowned expert in organizational culture and leadership, with a particular focus on the human side of consulting. In this thought-provoking interview, Schein explores the dynamics of culture, leadership, and the consultant-client relationship, offering valuable insights for consultants seeking to make a lasting impact.
Schein begins by discussing the importance of understanding organizational culture. He argues that culture is often the invisible force that shapes how organizations operate, and that consultants must take it into account when advising clients. For consultants, this means going beyond surface-level analysis and taking the time to understand the deeper cultural dynamics at play. Schein’s advice is to be curious, ask questions, and observe how things are done within the organization, as these insights can provide valuable clues to the organization’s culture and how to effect change.
One of the most powerful moments in the interview is when Schein discusses the concept of humble inquiry. He explains that consultants often feel pressure to have all the answers, but that true consulting success comes from asking the right questions and being open to learning from the client. For consultants, this means adopting a mindset of humility and curiosity, and being willing to listen more than they speak. Schein’s insights highlight the importance of building a collaborative relationship with clients, where both parties are learning and growing together.
Schein also explores the role of leadership in shaping organizational culture. He argues that leaders have a profound impact on culture, both through their actions and their inactions. For consultants, this means working closely with leaders to help them understand the cultural implications of their decisions and actions. Schein’s advice is to focus on helping leaders develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence, as these qualities are essential for creating a positive and inclusive organizational culture.
Finally, Schein reflects on the future of consulting and the role of the consultant as a facilitator of change. He predicts that as organizations become more complex and diverse, the demand for consultants who can navigate the human side of business will only increase. For consultants, this means developing the skills and mindset needed to engage with clients on a deeper, more human level. Schein’s insights provide valuable guidance for consultants who are seeking to make a meaningful impact in their work.
Innovation and Strategy: An Interview with Clayton Christensen
Clayton Christensen, known for his groundbreaking work on disruptive innovation, offers a masterclass in strategic thinking in this interview. Christensen’s insights have not only influenced the consulting world but have also reshaped how businesses approach innovation and competition.
Christensen begins by discussing the concept of disruptive innovation, a term he coined that has since become a key framework for understanding how new technologies and business models can disrupt established industries. For consultants, understanding disruptive innovation is crucial for helping clients anticipate and respond to changes in their industry. Christensen emphasizes that disruption often comes from unexpected sources and that consultants must help their clients stay vigilant and adaptable.
One of the key takeaways from the interview is Christensen’s discussion of the Innovator’s Dilemma. He explains that successful companies often struggle with innovation because they are too focused on their current customers and markets. For consultants, this means helping clients balance the need to serve their existing customers with the need to explore new opportunities. Christensen’s advice is to encourage clients to invest in small, experimental projects that can lead to breakthrough innovations.
Christensen also explores the role of leadership in fostering a culture of innovation. He argues that leaders must create an environment where experimentation and failure are tolerated, as this is essential for innovation to thrive. For consultants, this means working with leaders to develop a mindset that embraces risk and encourages creativity. Christensen’s insights highlight the importance of leadership in driving innovation and ensuring that the organization is prepared to adapt to future challenges.
Finally, Christensen reflects on the future of innovation in a rapidly changing world. He acknowledges that the pace of technological change is accelerating, making it more difficult for companies to keep up. However, he also believes that the principles of disruptive innovation remain as relevant as ever. For consultants, this means staying ahead of the curve in terms of technology trends and helping clients navigate the complexities of innovation in the digital age. Christensen’s insights provide valuable guidance for consultants who are helping clients innovate and compete in a rapidly changing world.
Conclusion: Learning from the Masters—Applying Insights to Your Consulting Practice
The eight interviews highlighted in this article offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for consultants at every stage of their careers. Each conversation provides unique insights into the challenges, strategies, and mindset needed to succeed in the consulting industry. From understanding the dynamics of competitive strategy to navigating the complexities of organizational culture, these interviews cover the full spectrum of consulting expertise.
But the value of these interviews goes beyond just knowledge—they offer practical guidance that can be applied to your own consulting practice. Whether it’s adopting a more client-centric approach, leveraging data to drive better decisions, or fostering a culture of innovation, the lessons learned from these experts can help you elevate your work and deliver greater value to your clients.
As you reflect on the insights shared by these consulting luminaries, consider how you can integrate their wisdom into your own practice. What changes can you make to improve your client relationships? How can you stay ahead of industry trends and continue to develop your expertise? The answers to these questions will not only help you grow as a consultant but also ensure that you remain competitive in an ever-evolving industry.
The journey to consulting excellence is one of continuous learning and adaptation. By drawing on the experiences and insights of those who have walked the path before you, you can navigate the challenges ahead with confidence and purpose. So, take the lessons from these interviews to heart, apply them to your work, and continue to seek out new opportunities to learn and grow.
The future of consulting is bright, and with the right mindset and tools, you can shape your own success story. Keep exploring, keep questioning, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in your consulting practice. The insights you gain along the way will not only benefit your clients but will also help you build a legacy of excellence in the consulting world.
