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The Skillset of Internal Consultants: A Comparative Analysis


Introduction

In the organizational landscape, the role of internal consultants has gained prominence due to the increasing complexity of business problems and the need for specialized in-house expertise. While many skills required for internal consulting overlap with those of external consultants, there are distinct abilities that set them apart. This article aims to compare and contrast these skill sets to provide a clearer understanding of what makes an effective internal consultant.

Skills Common to Both Internal and External Consultants

Problem-Solving

Both types of consultants need to excel at identifying issues and creating viable solutions. Critical thinking and analytical skills are paramount for dissecting complex situations and recommending actionable strategies.

Communication

Excellent communication skills are a must for any consultant. Whether it’s making a presentation to stakeholders, writing a report, or simply discussing ideas with a team, effective communication is key.

Business Acumen

A deep understanding of business fundamentals such as market trends, financial analysis, and organizational behavior is essential for both internal and external consultants.

Project Management

Both roles require the ability to manage projects efficiently from initiation to completion, including task delegation, time management, and financial planning.

Skills Unique to Internal Consultants

Organizational Savvy

Internal consultants have the advantage of intimate knowledge of the organization’s culture, politics, and structure. This requires a skill set oriented towards navigating these internal complexities effectively, often called "organizational savvy."

Relationship Building

Long-term relationships are more crucial for internal consultants because they are permanent employees. They need to excel at building and maintaining relationships across different departments and hierarchical levels.

Change Management

As permanent members of the organization, internal consultants often have a role in implementing the changes they propose, requiring a deep understanding of change management principles.

Influencing Without Authority

Internal consultants usually do not have direct authority over the units or individuals they are advising. The ability to influence without formal power is, therefore, a critical skill for internal consultants.

Skills More Emphasized in External Consultants

Objectivity and Independence

External consultants are valued for their objectivity. Unlike internal consultants, they are not part of the organizational culture or politics, allowing them to offer impartial recommendations.

Specialized Expertise

External consultants are often hired for their specialized knowledge in a particular industry or field, which may not be available in-house. This specialized expertise is a crucial part of their skill set.

Adaptability

Working with multiple clients across various industries, external consultants need to adapt quickly to different organizational cultures, structures, and challenges.

Sales Skills

External consultants are often required to pitch their services to potential clients, a skill less emphasized in the internal consulting role.

Conclusion

While internal and external consultants share foundational skills like problem-solving, communication, business acumen, and project management, they differ in their specialized requirements. Internal consultants benefit from their deep organizational knowledge, relationship-building skills, and a focus on change management. In contrast, external consultants need to emphasize objectivity, specialized expertise, adaptability, and sales skills. Understanding these unique skill sets is crucial for aspiring consultants and organizations seeking to utilize consulting services effectively.

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