The episode opens up the 'listener mailbag', where the hosts respond to questions from both novice consultants and seasoned veterans. Listeners asked us about moving fast vs. slowing things down, handling politically sensitive findings, avoiding 'paralysis by diagnosis' and even the idealism of 'humanity in consulting' - what a notion!

In this episode, Mike and Ian continue their Strategic Partner series, focusing on the indispensable skill of critical thinking as it pertains to developing viable solutions. They advocate for a methodical evaluation of problems, coupled with a creative exploration of potential solutions that account for the complexities of organizational dynamics. The hosts elaborate on several techniques, such as brainstorming divergent options and employing stakeholder-centric mapping, which facilitate the generation of innovative ideas while ensuring alignment with the broader organizational mission. Through their insightful dialogue, listeners are encouraged to adopt a mindset that values incremental improvements and collaborative efforts, thereby enhancing their capacity to influence positive change within their respective environments. This episode serves as a vital resource for any consultant aspiring to elevate their practice by integrating human-centric approaches into their strategic methodologies.

This episode delves into the intricacies of strategic partnerships and the essential skill of problem diagnosis. Through a deliberate examination of the concept of 'Understanding before Being Understood,' Ian & Mike explore the significance of diagnosing issues prior to formulating solutions. They draw from established frameworks, such as Stephen Covey's principles, to underscore that effective problem-solving requires a comprehensive grasp of the underlying causes rather than merely addressing superficial symptoms. The episode is replete with illustrative anecdotes, including a case study of an operations manager who discerned the real issues impacting productivity, thus shifting the narrative from reactive problem-solving to proactive strategic thinking. This shift not only enhances one’s professional standing but also cultivates indispensable partnerships within the organizational milieu, ultimately leading to greater efficacy in achieving desired outcomes.

Authors mentioned in this episode:

• Stephen Covey
• Albert Einstein
• Malcolm Forbes
• Eli Goldratt