TNF #003: Complexity is your friend, my friend

Welcome Professionals…

…sometimes we get overwhelmed by the complexity of our tasks. We are problem solvers, we want to cut complex problems into single digestable chunks and align them in a well-structured framework. But wait a minute – do not jump to conclusions here.

First, we want to make sure to possess the right mindset for a top management consultant. Complexity is our friend! If the problem was not complex enough, the client wouldn’t have hired us in the first place, right? It is important to make this statement to yourself and to your team everytime you get overwhelmed with complexity.

Second, take pride in the complexity. Do not jump into solution approaches and simplifying frameworks too quickly. Take your time to lay out the full complexity in a discussion with your client first. Why? For two reasons. Because on the one hand the client might feel misunderstood, when you simplify his complex project that has driven him to hire an expensive consultant. On the other hand because you want to widen the gap first before you offer ways to close it. Complexity is the fog, making it hard to go from starting point to the target. You want to position yourself as a guide to lead through that foggy complexity.

In conclusion, complexity is the essence of our business in helping clients succeed. No matter where complexity stems from, it is the one main reason to get external support. Look for complexity and you will find new business opportunities. Complexity is your friend!

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