By Beleyou Kebede
“So, wait, what do you do again?” my best friend, who works in the medical field, asked me the other day. I gave her a quick synopsis of what it means to be a consultant, the day-to-day tasks, the problem-solving, the client interactions. When she still didn’t get it, I turned to Instagram memes that joked, “PowerPoint, Spreadsheets, Repeat.” While these memes provide comedic relief, I’ve learned in my first 90 days as a client-facing consultant that the role is so much more than just slide decks and data. It’s about fully supporting the client, a principle deeply embedded in Simatree’s values. It’s also about delivering the highest level of service. Here are a few key lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Building Strong Client Relationships is Key
One of the most important aspects of consulting is relationship management. While technical skills and industry knowledge are essential, trust and credibility with clients are just as critical. From day one, I learned that successful consulting isn’t just about providing expert solutions; it’s about understanding the client’s unique challenges, aligning with their goals, and becoming a trusted partner in their success.
Clients appreciate it when consultants take the time to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and demonstrate genuine investment in their concerns. Building a rapport early on leads to more effective collaboration and ultimately better results. Whether through regular check-ins, prompt responses to emails, or simply remembering small personal details about clients, showing that you care about them as individuals goes a long way.
Communication is Everything
Effective communication is at the core of being a successful consultant. From presenting findings to drafting reports to leading meetings, clear and concise communication is essential. One of the biggest takeaways from my first 90 days is that how you deliver a message is just as important as what you say.
For example, when discussing complex data or strategic recommendations, breaking information down into digestible insights ensures that clients understand and can act on the advice given. Additionally, strong written communication skills are just as vital, whether it’s crafting an email, developing a proposal, or summarizing a meeting, ensuring clarity and professionalism is key.
Another critical component of communication is knowing when to listen. Often, clients don’t just need a consultant to provide answers; they need someone who actively listens and adapts solutions to their specific needs.
Adaptability and Problem-Solving are Essential
No two consulting engagements are the same, and the ability to adapt quickly is crucial. The first 90 days taught me that consultants must be comfortable with ambiguity, as client needs can shift rapidly. Whether dealing with changing project scopes, unexpected challenges, or new stakeholders, flexibility is essential.
For example, I have been assigned tasks where the client’s priorities changed midway through. Instead of resisting the shift, I worked with stakeholders to reassess and deliver new solutions that aligned with their evolving needs. This experience reinforced the importance of being proactive, open-minded, and resourceful when faced with new challenges.
Attention to Detail Makes a Difference
In consulting, the small details matter. Whether it’s formatting a PowerPoint deck, double-checking calculations in a spreadsheet, or ensuring consistency in client deliverables, precision is key. One minor error in a report or misalignment in a slide deck can impact the client’s perception of the work.
Early on, I learned the value of quality control. Taking the extra time to review and refine work products before sharing them with clients helps maintain credibility and professionalism. Additionally, developing a habit of checking and learning from feedback from managers and team members has helped me improve the overall quality of my work.
Continuous Learning and Growth are Part of the Job
One of the most rewarding aspects of consulting is the continuous opportunity for growth. Each project brings new industries, challenges, and skill-building experiences. While I may be junior in my career, I quickly realized that my ability to learn, adapt, and contribute is just as valuable as years of experience.
Consulting requires staying informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies. At Simatree, I’ve been encouraged to ask questions, seek mentorship, and take ownership of my learning journey. Whether through on-the-job experience, training sessions, or self-guided research, the ability to keep learning is what enables consultants to stay ahead.
Conclusion
My first 90 days as a client-facing consultant have been filled with invaluable lessons. From building strong relationships and honing communication skills to developing adaptability and attention to detail, I’ve learned that consulting is as much about people as it is about problem-solving. While I may not have decades of experience, I now understand that my contributions, whether in insights, execution of tasks, or fresh perspectives hold real value.
Moving forward, I’m excited to continue growing in this role, embracing new challenges, and finding innovative ways to support clients. If there’s one thing I’ve taken away from these first few months, it’s that consulting isn’t just about providing solutions, it’s about becoming a trusted partner in the client’s journey to success.
