Good consultants do not hide findings and recommendations from the client because they fear a negative reaction. It is a consultant’s ethical duty to report the whole story of their analysis and all findings from an objective stand-point.
Some clients have a tendency to “shoot the messenger” when they hear a less-than-stellar finding from a consultant. That comes with the territory, so don't take it personally. Nobody likes bad news, but a mature client who is truly focused on improvement and progress will listen carefully and take the consultant’s message and recommendations to heart. Mature clients will not use a finding of weakness or "opportunity for improvement" as an opportunity to blame the consultant.
Not reporting the whole truth or falsely reporting only “roses and candy” may gain approval and smiles for the consultant in the short-term, but will likely result in the long-term in project failure and a zero return for the client on their investment. Practice full disclosure and you will sleep better at night. If your client attacks you for a negative finding, know that "it's not you, it's them".
No comments:
Post a Comment