The Internal Consultant: Fundamentals of Consulting Skills

Course Duration: 3 Days

Course Overview:

The role of internal consultants within organizations has become increasingly crucial. Internal consultants serve as trusted advisors who provide valuable insights and solutions to address complex business challenges. This comprehensive training course, offered by McTimothy Associates, is designed to equip participants with the fundamental consulting skills necessary to excel in the role of an internal consultant. Through interactive sessions, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will develop the knowledge and capabilities needed to deliver strategic value to their organizations.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the role and responsibilities of an internal consultant.
• Apply fundamental consulting frameworks and methodologies.
• Develop strong client relationships based on trust and credibility.
• Gather and analyze data to diagnose organizational issues.
• Formulate and communicate effective recommendations.
• Navigate challenging consulting situations and client dynamics.
• Implement change management strategies for successful projects.
• Continuously improve consulting skills and adapt to evolving client needs.

Course Outlines:

Day 1: Introduction to Internal Consulting

Module 1: The Role of Internal Consultants

• Defining the internal consultant’s role and responsibilities.
• Differentiating between internal and external consulting.
• Building credibility and trust within the organization.

Module 2: Consulting Frameworks and Methodologies

• Overview of fundamental consulting frameworks.
• The consulting process: from problem identification to solution implementation.
• Understanding the client’s perspective and needs.

Day 2: Consulting Skills and Client Engagement

Module 3: Data Gathering and Analysis

• Techniques for gathering and synthesizing data.
• Analyzing information to diagnose organizational issues.
• Developing data-driven insights and recommendations.

Module 4: Effective Communication and Presentation

• Communicating findings and recommendations persuasively.
• Presenting complex ideas in a clear and concise manner.
• Handling client questions and objections effectively.

Module 5: Managing Consulting Projects

• Project planning and scoping.
• Risk management in consulting projects.
• Time and resource management for successful project delivery.

Day 3: Navigating Challenges and Implementing Change

Module 6: Handling Challenging Situations

• Dealing with resistance and skepticism.
• Managing difficult client dynamics.
• Conflict resolution within consulting teams.

Module 7: Change Management and Implementation

• Strategies for successful change management.
• Monitoring and measuring the impact of recommendations.
• Closing out consulting projects and ensuring sustainability.

Module 8: Continuous Improvement in Consulting

• Self-assessment and development planning.
• Staying updated with industry trends and best practices.
• Building a network of internal consulting peers.

Methodology:

• Interactive lectures and presentations
• Group discussions and case studies
• Role-playing and simulations
• Practical consulting exercises and project work
• Feedback and peer review sessions
• Assessment and evaluation through case presentations and discussions

Target Audience:

• Internal consultants
• Managers and professionals aspiring to become internal consultants
• Project managers
• HR professionals involved in organizational development
• Any individuals seeking to enhance their consulting skills within an organizational context.

Certification: Participants who successfully complete the training course will receive a certificate of completion, recognizing their proficiency in fundamental consulting skills as internal consultants.

Note: This course outline provides a general framework and can be customized to align with the specific needs and goals of your training program.