Book Description

Year after year, the Annuals provide thousands of trainers, consultants, facilitators, and managers with new ideas and solutions for information about making organizations more effective. You will get three types of powerful tools in every volume of the Annuals:

• Experiential Learning Activities: These exercises and activities are the engaging training framework necessary to make learning dynamic and involving.
• Inventories, Questionnaires, and Surveys: These instruments, which stimulate evaluation and reflection, lead participants to enlightening conclusions.
• Presentation and Discussion Resources: These essays, provoking ideas and potential solutions, offer the theoretical background all practitioners need in order to advance an organization.

  
  ... Read more

Book Description

Lessons from the leading financial consulting firm
What is good financial service? Being knowledgeable. Keeping in touch. Knowing your client's needs. For the past twenty-five years, senior executives of professional financial services firms have relied on the experience of Greenwich Associates in establishing their strategy to attract and keep a committed client base-the core of financial services consulting. Based on work they have done at virtually all of the world's leading professional financial services organization, this book shares the techniques developed and lessons learned in the Greenwich Associates' proprietary research and experience consulting for over a quarter of a century. ... Read more

Book Description

Could there actually be a reason to cheer being downsized? Surprisingly, yes! With the help of Six Figure Consulting, readers can parlay their business experience into a highly rewarding second career.

This upbeat and motivating book explains how attractive the consulting lifestyle can be. It helps readers tap into what they already know -- but didn't think they did -- and outlines skills and attitudes necessary for success. Readers will learn about all aspects of consulting, including:

** the psychology of consulting
**marketing their consulting services
**packaging their know how, and more.

Using the author's action plan, readers will be able to make the transition from company cog to free wheel. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Practical and Doable Advice
To get into the spirit of things, Dr. Goodman starts with a discussion of the lifestyle and credentials of consultants. The energetic and informative way he talks about it is contageous. He does not ignore the downside (every worthwhile venture has one) but he is enthusiastic in talking about all the advantages associated with the work.

From this initial foundation he goes on to talk about marketing one's skills is which perhaps the major challenge faced by consultants new to the enterprise. He offers a number of options on getting one's name known.

This is a book for serious, hands-on people who want to enter the field. For veterans it is a useful reference book. I recommend it highly. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A gem of a book for understanding organization IN DEPTH!
As consultants in the field of organization design and change, we have long valued this author's "Organizational Diagnosis," a classic work now out-of-print. The current volume brings this original volume back, but fully updated and highly streamlined. The book takes a diagnostic approach influenced by a psychoanalytical background and psychosocial framework. It is a robust manual for assessing an organization in depth, and outlines a mode for gathering information. Rather than plunge into some recipe for organizational change, this book shows how to understand an organization from many perspectives. Based on this knowledge, a strategy for change can be developed. In addition to examples of proposals, letters to employees, interview questions, and feedback reports, the book presents an excellent assessment outline for use on-site. The work is built on extensive research and is ideal for external and internal consultants and graduate-level students. This book is a gem!-a one-of-kind work that is extraordinary in its comprehensiveness and depth. ... Read more

Book Description

Persuade Cleints to See Things Your Way Here's a fool-proof, hassle-free way to get clients to accept and implement your ideas in any consulting engagement. In Client-Centered Consulting: Getting Your Expertise Used WHen You're Not in Charge, consulting gurus Peter Cockman, Bill Evans and Peter Reynolds give you hands-on, practice-proven tools to influence, inspire and motivate even the most reluctant people to follow your advice, and work together to solve organizational problems. You'll discover powerful, easy-to-master techniques to help you: Build your reputation as a master communicator; Hone razor-sharp observation and feedback skills; Deal effectively with anxious, angry and threatened employees; Fine-tune your ability to identify problems and generate creative solutions; Develop strong and effective teams; And much more. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Unfulfilling
The authors have taken a pick and mix approach to a variety of theories and have come up with a half baked product. If you want counselling theory look up some Rogers; for organisational models try some Weber; for Transactional Analysis refer to Berne or Harris; the list could go on. In this work you will get selections from a number of sources but some key points are overlooked, mis-interpreted or badly applied. Without presenting evidence to support the basis for this editing of other (better) material Client Centered Consulting does not hold water. ... Read more

Book Description

As a private consultant you can turn the expertise and knowledge you already have into a successful business.And this easy-to-use guide shows you how—from marketing yourself and billing your time to planning for taxes and much more.Everything you need to know to become a well-paid consultant including:

Overviews of the top 20 consulting businesses thriving today, with answers to commonly asked questions.

Proven tips and advice for assessing your skills and creating your niche,

finding and keeping clients, deciding what to charge, developing a winning style and more.

Step-by-step instructions for creating marketing and business plans, obtaining financing, promoting your business, keeping records, and much more.

Free Ultimate Financial Forecaster software for easily creating P&Ls, cash flow statements and balance sheets.

Printable charts, checklists, work sheets and sample forms.

Plus a special bonus CD featuring inspirational and informative audio

profiles of successful entrepreneurs and American business pioneers from the renowned "Dream Warriors" radio series.

For more than 25 years, Entrepreneur magazine’s Start-Up Guides have helped thousands of entrepreneurs start and run their own successful businesses. Now these acclaimed guides are available in an audio format--perfect for busy entrepreneurs who want and need information on the go.Don’t wait another minute.Pick up this guide and start on the path to entrepreneurial

success today! ... Read more

Book Description

As their financial security, dreams and peace of mind became victims of the crisis in corporate responsibility, friends of investment banker, Wendy Stevens, sought her help in understanding what was happening and who to trust. Try as she might, she was at a loss to find a believable cause or solution to the crisis. In frustration she telephoned her friend, retired financial officer, Sam McAllen. Over dinner in Chicago's suburbs, Sam shared insights into the real cause of the continuing corporate crisis. He helped Wendy identify the vested interests that were abusing Shareowners' money, and he helped her to recognize why the populist ideas of "greedy people doing bad things" weren't the real cause of the crisis. Sam then suggested the grand deception at the heart of the corporate crisis... Wendy was astonished... It was so obvious.

Over breakfast the next morning, they explored a national solution to the corporate crisis as well as a "quick fix" that Wendy's friends could personally use until the national solution was implemented.

When they parted, Wendy knew she had answers that would help her friends regain their confidence in stocks and perhaps some of their lost financial security.

Reviews (4)

An insider look on the real causes and possible solutions
Expertly and knowledgeably written by Will Marshall (an experienced businessman whose corporate and financial expertise includes twenty years as Treasurer of the 2.5 billion Nalco Chemical Company), Money Ain't Free: The True Cause Of The Crisis In Corporate Responsibility is a hands-on, insider look on the real causes and possible solutions to modern-day crises in corporate fiscal responsibility. Portraying the financial woes of corporations as a far more complex problem than simply the blind greed of a few highly placed individuals, Money Ain't Free is a down-to-earth guide portraying its concepts via example for ease of comprehension. Informed and informative, Money Ain't Free is very highly recommended reading for non-specialist general readers wanting a more complete and comprehensive understanding of the current and continuing crisis in corporate management -- and what can be done about it.

Practical insight
The book provides useful insight into the motivations of management, advisors, accountants and other professionals. By "following the money", one can appreciate the motivation of individuals who can impact valuation and modify their approach to investing accordingly. The book is written in a conversationalist style that allows the layperson to stay engaged. A good, thought-provoking read.

A MUST READ BOOK FOR THE INVESTOR
THIS BOOK IS EASY TO READ AND OFFERS A FRESH APPROACH TO EVALUATING THE PERFORMANCE OF A PUBLIC COMPANY.IT IS A MUST READ FOR ANY INDIVIDUAL TRYING TO EVALUATE HOW TO INVEST THEIR HARD EARNED MONEY IN THE STOCK MARKET.THE AUTHOR POINTS OUT HOW OUR CURRENT ECONOMIC METRICS DO NOT PROPERLY EVALUATE MANAGEMENTS PERFORMANCE AND AS SUCH CAN MISLEAD INVESTORS.THE BOOK PROVIDES EASY TO USE METRICS FOR COMPANY PERFORMANCE AND MANAGEMENT EVALUATION.

Good Financial Guide
I enjoyed reading Will Marshall's "Money Ain't Free: The True Cause of the Crisis in Corporate Responsibility". It is thought provoking, timely, and educational. Part of the book outlines the problems with basic financial measurement systems and financial "distractions" and how those problems have created an environment in which recent financial scandals can take place. It argues for changes in those measurement systems and a new financial report - the "Valuation Statement" which would help investors more easily evaluate corporate performance. On this level, the book is a call to action for change in corporate governance and oversight. What takes the book to another level is Marshall's application of the lessons of Enterprise Value and their use in the selection of stocks. The basic premise is if you can calculate the Enterprise Value of a company and its projected rate of growth, you can identify undervalued - and overvalued - stocks with a much higher degree of reliability than using conventional methods. Unlike many books on finance, Money Ain't Free is written for the non-finance person, using a conversational style. The style may take a little getting used to, but the book is very readable. Both finance and non-finance people would benefit from the book. I would recommend it both to people who want to understand current events in the market and to those who are looking for tools to help them invest in the stock market. ... Read more

Book Description

The owner's manual for the independent sales consultant

Aspiring sales consultants will learn the latest in presentation and training skills, designing and planning campaigns and special promotions, writing sales literature, arranging publicity, and much more.

Herman Holtz (Wheaton, MD) is the author of the bestseller How to Succeed as an Independent Consultant and has been a consultant to such companies as IBM, GE, Dun & Bradstreet, and Chrysler. ... Read more

Book Description

As a consultant you will have the power to make your own schedule, work at your own pace, and pursue the clients that will be most beneficial to your business. But protecting yourself from liability is a priority. A Legal Road Map for Consultants will teach you how to maintain a safe and legal enterprise in a clear, easy to understand format.You will learn how to choose a good business lawyer and what kinds of liability you may face. You will also find out how to protect yourself, why you should maintain professional liability insurance, why you should be using consulting contracts, and how the Internal Revenue Service will determine your tax status.

A Legal Road Map for Consultants uses real-life examples to explain these issues, and includes sample consulting and subcontractor agreements. While most guides for consultants focus on generic business laws, this book hones in on what you need to know to maintain a profitable and protected business. It is not a substitute for professional legal advice, merely a clear-cut guide to help you head off potential legal encounters. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An Excellent Roadmap To Follow
Judy Gedge provides a very easy to understand explanation of the legal issues I need to know about as I build my business practice. The examples she uses are very realistic and her explanations are clear and to the point. This book has saved me significant time and future legal headaches.

Important information for all consultants to know.
This book is a must read for any individual thinking about getting into the consulting game.

The author explains potential liability, and the ins and outs of forming a Corporation, LLC, or LLP without putting you to sleep.

Learn how to protect your assests no matter how small or big they may be. Unlike the many unfinished business books I have bought in the past this book is an easy read and will leave you truly knowing what's important for surviving the consulting business.

This book could easily save you big bucks down the road. ... Read more

Book Description

A popular aphorism suggests that in the end, no one ever regretted not spending more time in the office. Yet during our lives and careers we often seem to confuse our priorities, shifting our focus so that we end up with clients whom we know extremely well and families who are de facto strangers. In this book, widely renowned consultant Alan Weiss— cited as "a worldwide expert in executive education" in Success Magazine— tells how to blend life, work, and relationships in a way that will help anyone to work smarter and live better.

Weiss draws on scores of interviews and vignettes with highly successful consultants to offer nontheoretical, pragmatic advice on living a balanced life, including how to:

• Work smart and not hard
• Have time to fulfill your passions
• Build on success, not on correcting weakness
• Give yourself short- and long-term personal rewards
• Take risks and reinvent yourself (again and again)
• Play to win— but ignore the score and reward the effort
• Influence others while surrendering the need to control
• Visualize the future

Reviews (1)

At last, a book about enjoying success
Despite all of Alan Weiss's books, consulting, workshops, newsletters and the rest of his success, or perhaps because of it, a couple or bitter reviewers seem to follow his listings to plant a single star where everyone else plants five. But that my be the price of success when bitter people are upset at their own failings.

This is a wonderful book which deals with escaping from tasks and deliverables. There are several sections on how to create more discretionary time. Weiss includes formulas for stress relief and establishing personal rewards. And he talks about personal mastery. The book is dvided into work, rest, and relationship sections. It is based on his popular newsletter, Balancing Act, and his workshops on life balance. (And I noted that it's published by a major publishing house, so the criticism of the size of the font is hardly relevant to the author or the quality of the material.)

Buy this book if you want to give yourself permission to succeed and enjoy life. ... Read more

Book Description

Great Consulting Challenges: And How to Surmount Them shows how consultants can use the wisdom gleaned from Weiss's own practice and from other seasoned members of the profession to help overcome persistent problems and next-level challenges. Weiss explains that as consultants' careers develop and become more sophisticated and complex, so do the challenges they encounter. For example, the question of price competition occurs at every level of the consulting business, yet the techniques for astutely resolving the issue can be vastly different for the veteran consultant as compared to the novice who is merely trying to establish a new business. In this book, Alan Weiss discusses the great consulting challenges in key areas such as marketing, selling, delivery, and practice management and offers practical advice for overcoming common problems and learning to thrive as a consultant. ... Read more

Book Description

With over 70,000 copies in print--this is the classic guide tosuccess in the demanding world of consulting.

A consultant is an entire company all rolled up into one person! A consultantacts as marketer, salesperson, subject expert, legal adviser, accountant,negotiator, and more! In other words--consultants need help!

That's why HOW TO MAKE IT BIG AS A CONSULTANT keeps selling and selling. Writtenby a veteran consultant (with hundreds of consulting engagements to his credit),this up-close-and-personal guide is filled with highly-focused, detailed adviceon every aspect of starting up and maintaining a highly lucrative consultingcareer.

Completely updated, the third edition includes new chapters on how to doeffective research, and how the Internet can provide a multitude of businessopportunities. All the basics that make this book a favorite are still included,such as how to:

* Understand what clients think they need (and analyze if it's what they reallyneed)* Market the business--both directly and indirectly* Create the structure for an assignment (proposals, pricing, contracts,scheduling)* Solve clients' problems (using the Harvard Case Study Method)* Structure and run the business (all the legal, tax, and insurance issues)* Grow and evolve to become an outstanding consultant--one that clients turn toagain and again. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

poor overview
This book is just poor. The information is just light weight, the suggestions on how to sell yourself will make you come across as either an amateur or scam artist. What should be the most important section on contracts is severely lacking. This book is not for people who are actually serious about going into contracting.

A consolidated course in entrepreneurialship.
This book covers the basics for starting your own service based business; concept clarification, proposal development, promotion, entering into contracts, fincial record keeping advise. It was fun to read and I am going to systematically work my business idea through the steps before hanging my shingle. ... Read more

Book Description

A book that is filled with excellent advice, tips and real experience. It should serve as a real aid to all who want to succeed in the rapidly growing role of the internal consultant.-Bie De Graeve, director, Tias Business School, University of Tilbur ... Read more

Book Description

Keith Merron believes that most consultants follow a consulting model that may make a lot of money, or add value, without making a real and enduring difference. In Consulting Mastery, he argues that the most powerful element in making that difference is the consultant's inner stance — those attitudes, assumptions, beliefs, goals, and strategies that underlie his or her consulting practice. Each of the book's five sections guides the reader through a journey of self-exploration fueled by the wisdom of master consultants. Section one, Understanding Consulting Mastery, lays the conceptual foundation of the book. Sections two through four explore different aspects of Mastery in Action, from how to create a mutually satisfying, empowering relationship, to how a master consultant applies knowledge, to utilizing self-awareness in consultancy. Section five provides a road map for learning — guidance for readers who want to deepen their ability and become not only more successful, but more masterful. ... Read more

Book Description

In today's economy, more and more professionals are thinking of setting up their own consulting business. Regardless of whether you are just starting out, or have an established practice and are looking for ways to improve your earnings, you want clear, concise answers to your questions.

The Independent Consultant's Q & A Book offers hundreds of detailed answers, in an easy-to-use, question-and-answer format, to virtually all of your consulting dilemmas. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Answers to tricky questions. Invaluable resource.
This 300 page book is aimed at communicating ideas that consultants can implement to solve their everyday problems. In 15 chapters, the author follows a Question and Answer format to suggest these everyday solutions.

All the way from getting ready to start a consulting business and how to get good clients to charging the right price and getting clients to pay, this book leaves almost no stone unturned. I honestly can't think of anything else the author could have addressed for a book of this nature.

I found Chapter 11: Painless Paying, Chapter 13: Financing a Consulting Business, Chapter 7: Charge the Right Price, and Chapter 15: Hanging it Up the most beneficial for my particular situation and experience. My favorite chapter was Chapter 11: Painless Paying that addresses what to do to get your clients to pay.

Overall, this is a fantastic purchase for the price. If you are a new consultant don't hesitate and just get the book. Even if you have been a consultant for a few years, you will still find some ideas worth the investment. Good luck! ... Read more

Book Description

This WetFeet Insider Guide offers an inside look at Accenture, a top-notch consulting and technology services firm. Perfect for anyone considering working at Accenture, this book discusses how Accenture stacks up against the competition, typical responsibilities and day-to-day life for analysts and consultants, what employees love most and like least about Accenture, the workplace, and the recruiting process. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The Contract and Fee-Setting Guide for Consultants&Professio
The best guide for all the consultants in the world. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Applied Emotional Intelligence for the Consultant!
I reviewed this book for the 7EQ.com newsletter. Here is what I wrote: Whether you are working as a consultant or are planning to become one, this book is for you! It really covers all aspects of what it means to be a consultant. Maybe that's why this book ended being 375 pages thnk, in stead of the initially announced 250 pages. Carol Harris knows what she is talking about: she has been an independent consultant for the last 15 years and wrote 4 other books. The first and second chapter discusses the kind of competencies and attitudes a consultant needs. Chapters 3 to 6 discuss what is means to set up as an independent consultant, how to promote yourself etc (maybe you conclude from these chapters that you would be better of to be working for one of the consultancy agencies). The rest of the book teaches you skills related to practical aspects of being a consultant, such as self-management, helping other to develop, writing skills, etc. In short in this book you'll find what a consultant needs to demonstrate in order to be successful. Of course, I cant resist mentioning that for other areas of live, my book "7 steps to emotional intelligence" will be complementary! ... Read more