Michael Negendahl’s Post

After more than a decade of consulting experience, I've found this to be the one skill that separates the strategic from the technical. It sounds obvious and simple. And you'll probably think that it isn't revolutionary or groundbreaking. But this is the one thing I've noticed sets great consultants apart from the rest: Clear communication. After more than a decade of consulting to the largest organisations, I've learnt that being able to clearly communicate your point is what separates strategic advisors from technical specialists. This is not about who knows more about a topic. It's not about being the loudest and most confident. It's not about having 'the answer'. It's about being able to take on multiple perspectives - sometimes conflicting - and being able to clearly state what needs the most attention and why. Can this be misused and misapplied? Of course it can, just like anything can be. But in my experience, the most effective advisors all share this skill. The ability to clearly communicate a point to someone so they understand how to move towards their objectives. Simple in concept, remarkably difficult in practice, but definitely critical to be the one someone listens to.