What do you do if clients are seeking key skills and qualities in a freelance Business Innovation consultant?

In the dynamic world of business, innovation is the key to staying ahead of the curve. As a freelance Business Innovation consultant, you're often the catalyst for change, helping clients navigate new terrain. But what happens when clients are specifically looking for certain skills and qualities in a consultant? It's crucial to understand the landscape and be prepared to demonstrate your expertise in the most sought-after areas.

1 Expertise Depth

To thrive as a Business Innovation consultant, you must possess a deep understanding of various business models and strategies. Your ability to analyze market trends and translate them into actionable insights can set you apart. Clients expect you to not only be knowledgeable but also to have a proven track record of successful innovation initiatives. This expertise is what will give clients the confidence that you can guide them through uncharted business waters with competence and creativity.

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Dr. Sebastian Bartel

Unternehmensentwickler | Think about things differently!
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Especially in dynamic, disruptive markets, trends and historical data do not always provide a really good basis for innovation. My perspective is aimed directly at the market: the decentralized customer teams are best at recognizing changing demands and can adapt and develop accordingly. The prerequisite is that the company is no longer controlled from the headquarters, but can operate flexibly in the market like a networked platform.

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2 Creative Insight

Clients seek consultants who can bring fresh perspectives to the table. Your creativity is an invaluable asset, allowing you to devise innovative solutions to complex problems. It's important to showcase your ability to think outside the box and challenge conventional wisdom. Clients will be looking for evidence of your creative process, so be prepared to discuss how you've previously fostered innovation in a business setting.

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Dr. Sebastian Bartel

Unternehmensentwickler | Think about things differently!
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With my external perspective and the data available within the company, I can question existing solution approaches and help the team implement innovative solutions to customer problems. Two methods that work very well for me are “How to kill my Company” and the 5 "Why" questions!

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3 Communication Skills

Clear and effective communication is non-negotiable. You must articulate complex ideas in a way that is accessible and compelling to stakeholders at all levels. Your ability to listen and adapt your message for different audiences is equally important. Whether it's through reports, presentations, or casual conversations, your communication skills are often what will make or break your relationship with a client.

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Dr. Sebastian Bartel

Unternehmensentwickler | Think about things differently!
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I can only agree: without communication everything is nothing! On the one hand, it is important to build psychological safety and trust in the team when communicating. Only then can innovative new solutions for customers be created using the diverse knowledge and perspectives of our colleagues. At the same time, it is important to communicate transparently to the outside world what the team is working on so that the innovation does not become competition within the company

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4 Collaborative Spirit

Innovation is rarely a solo endeavor. Clients value consultants who can work collaboratively with their teams, fostering a culture of innovation across the organization. Your ability to engage with others, encourage diverse thinking, and build consensus is critical. A collaborative spirit also means being receptive to feedback and willing to adapt your strategies to better align with client needs.

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5 Agile Methodology

Familiarity with Agile methodologies is increasingly important in the world of Business Innovation consulting. Agile is a project management and product development approach that focuses on flexibility, customer feedback, and iterative progress. Clients may expect you to facilitate Agile processes or to integrate Agile principles into your innovation strategies. Demonstrating your agility in adapting to changing project scopes and timelines can be a significant advantage.

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6 Ethical Considerations

Finally, clients are looking for consultants who not only drive innovation but do so ethically. In today's business environment, it's essential to consider the broader impact of innovation on society and the environment. Your commitment to ethical practices and sustainability can distinguish you in a field where trust and corporate responsibility are becoming as important as the bottom line.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if clients are seeking key skills and qualities in a freelance Business Innovation consultant?

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1 Expertise Depth

2 Creative Insight

3 Communication Skills

4 Collaborative Spirit

5 Agile Methodology

6 Ethical Considerations

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Innovation

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What do you do if clients are seeking key skills and qualities in a freelance Business Innovation consultant?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Expertise Depth

2 Creative Insight

3 Communication Skills

4 Collaborative Spirit

5 Agile Methodology

6 Ethical Considerations

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Innovation

Rate this article

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