I worry that my skills are not keeping up with the pace of business and management. My consulting business is good, but when I see the list of emerging management techniques, there are a lot that I don't know anything about. How do I get back up to speed?

We can be lulled into a false sense of security by a steady stream of clients asking for our services. However, client appreciation of what we provide is not the true test of value. It is whether we are providing what our clients need.

When was the last time you took a real inventory of your skills and services? I know, I know, you are too busy chopping down the next tree to stop and sharpen the axe. But how do you really know whether or not your services are in line with where business and management are going?

One way is to take advantage of research and surveys of what executives think are the most useful (or at least the most popular) management tools. You might look lists such as those published by Bain Consulting, who conducts an annual survey of which techniques are growing or declining in importance. Are your services at the "in" or the "out" end of the list?

Tip: You will find Bain's 2009 survey of Global Management Tools and Trends quite insightful. Are your emerging skills the same as those most in demand by your clients?

© 2011 Institute of Management Consultants USA