The Listening Advantage: Why Great Consultants Speak Last | Scott gelbard
In the world of consulting, where sharp insights and confident advice often take center stage, there’s a surprising superpower that sets the great consultants apart: listening . Not just hearing—but truly listening. And more often than not, the best consultants are the ones who speak last. Why? Because listening first allows consultants to fully understand the landscape before offering solutions. In fast-paced environments, clients are eager for answers. But diving in too quickly can lead to missed nuances, incorrect assumptions, and surface-level fixes. By holding back and taking time to absorb the full picture, great consultants unlock deeper insights that truly move the needle. Listening builds trust. When clients feel heard—when their concerns, experiences, and goals are taken seriously—they’re more likely to engage fully in the consulting process. This trust lays the foundation for meaningful collaboration. And collaboration, not dictation, is what drives lasting results. ...