Friday, 22 January 2010

Book Review: The Secrets of Consulting

Written by Gerald Weinberg, this book provides memorable rules, laws and principles for becoming a successful consultant. Since the language is quite witty, it's fun to read this book. There are more than 100 laws, a list of which is provided at the end of the book. But it's important to read these laws in the flow of the book though a list makes a good reference. Out of these laws, I found following laws quite useful. Please note that this is personal selection and to appreciate these laws, one will need to read the book (or the chapter which contains it).

  • If you can't accept failure, you'll never succeed as a consultant
  • In spite of what your client will tell you, there is always a problem.
  • If they didn't hire you, don't solve their problem.
  • We can do it – and this is how much it will cost.
  • Things are the way they are because they got that way.
  • It may look like a crisis, but it's only the end of an illusion.
  • You'll never accomplish anything if you care who gets the credit.
  • Pricing is not a zero-sum game.
  • Set the price so you won't regret it either way.
  • The best marketing tool is a satisfied client.
  • The trick of earning trust is to avoid all tricks.
  • Never be dishonest even if the client requests it.
  • Spend at least one day a week getting exposure.
  • Never promise more than 10% improvement. If you happen to achieve more than 10% improvement, make sure it is not noticed.

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