The breadth of skills competencies of an effective consultant to management go well beyond just technical or disciplinary skills and an an industry perspective. This market capability and knowledge is necessary but insufficient to provide sound business advice. Professional consultants also bring a range of consulting competencies that include the ability to work with a client and build and sustain a trusted advisor relationship, plus skills in diagnostics, project management, and evaluation. Finally, professional consultants bring a range of behaviors that set them apart from individuals with technical skills an experience alone. These include analytical thinking, ethics, awareness of broad technical, political, legal, and social issues, and other aspects of the business environment that influence consulting advice and outcomes.

The Competency Framework is is being extended in spring 2008 and aligned with teh Body of Knowledge, which will be published by our partner the American Management Association later this year.