The Consultant's Role as a Catalyst for Positive Change

Change is not just inevitable, it's necessary for growth. When founders find themselves at a crossroads, a consultant’s guidance can be the catalyst for positive change.

If it’s not working, don’t be afraid to pivot and don’t leave it too late. Guiding founders through fundamental changes in direction is a primary role for the consultant.

However, change is not easy and not always welcomed. People often fear leaving their comfort zones and resist new ways of doing things. By understanding the dynamics of change and acknowledging the fear and uncertainty it brings, a consultant can help navigate the path between the known failures and proven successes.

Striking a balance between logic and emotion is key. While data and rationale are important drivers of change, the founder’s instinct or gut-feel that drove their original belief in the business, should not be ignored but more harnessed and guided towards the new direction.

Changes may not need to be wholesale either. Small changes can often deliver significant results. When these changes hit the mark, it's important to scale them effectively and reinforce their impact.

In leading the charge, the consultant needs to look over his shoulder to see if the troops are actually behind him. It's not just about dictating new strategies; it's about garnering buy-in and commitment from all stakeholders.

In essence, a consultant serves as a guide, mentor, and strategist in managing change for the better while respecting the emotional journey that comes with it. Ultimately, a consultant's impact as a catalyst for positive change lies in their ability to steer you away from what they already know doesn't work and towards what does.

Feel the need to pivot? Drop me a line…

Norm Wilkinson

CEO and Principal Consultant

norm@influentialsales.co.uk